In September 2018, the Prime Minister announced the establishment of a Royal Commission into the Aged Care sector. In the Australian system of government, royal commissions are the highest form of inquiry on matters of public importance.
The terms of reference for the Royal Commission are outlined in the Letters Patent, which the Administrator of the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia signed on 6 December 2018. The final terms of reference were devised following more than 5,000 submissions received from aged care consumers, families, carers, aged care workers, health professionals and providers.
The Honourable Tony Pagone QC and Ms Lynelle Briggs AO have been appointed as Royal Commissioner. Commissioner Tracey was appointed Chair of the Royal Commission on 6 December 2018 and was involved until his death in October 2019. The Royal Commission's interim report was provided on 31 October 2019. The Final Report will be handed to the Governor-General on 12 November 2020.
Involvement with the Royal Commission
The Royal Commission’s Office is based in Adelaide and there is a website providing detail on their activities.
This includes information on making submissions and on hearings. The Royal Commission will continue to accept submissions from interested members of the public until at least the end of July 2020.
Background to Aged Care
Royal Commission Background Papers:
As part of the Royal Commission activity a number of Background Papers have been released to provide context and understanding on key issues being examined by the Commission.
Royal Commission Consultation Papers:
Royal Commission Research Papers:
A number of research studies have been commissioned to inform the work of the Royal Commission.
Other Reports:
Royal Commission Diversity Submissions
The Royal Commission has received a range of submissions that relate to diversity in aged care They have published a selection of submissions that have been received from organisations that address diversity in aged care.
Page updated 17 September 2020