The ANMF is actively shaping the future of aged care in Australia, focusing on raising care standards and ensuring the workforce is adequately supported to deliver high-quality services.

The federal government has implemented many of the Royal Commission’s 148 recommendations, including mandated minimum direct care minutes, 24/7 registered nurse coverage in residential facilities, the Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC) funding model, and the development of a new Aged Care Act.

Yet the real-world impact of these reforms on workloads, staff support, and care quality remains unclear.

There have been ongoing issues and concerns in aged care adversely affecting the recruitment and retention of aged care workers, said ANMF Federal Secretary Annie Butler. “Our members consistently report that safe workloads and the ability to deliver their best care are what matter most.”

In October 2025, the ANMF launched a national survey of aged care workers, examining staffing levels, skill mix, funding, consumer safety, worker safety, and clinical safety. Results will guide advocacy and potentially a national aged care campaign throughout 2026.

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