New poll reveals providers aren’t fully ready for 2025 reform

By Susan Howarth, Head of Marketing

As part of our upcoming  “Stronger Standards, New Rules” webinar, we conducted a poll ahead of the 2025 Aged Care Act, gathering insights from 428 participants across 290 aged care organisations across Australia. The findings highlight a sector in cautious transition, with providers seeking practical, operational support to prepare for the significant reforms set to take effect in July 2025.

The survey findings indicated that while aged care providers are actively working towards readiness, confidence levels remain low, and the complexity of the changes continues to present significant challenges across the sector.

Sector readiness: Providers are “somewhat prepared”

When asked how prepared they feel for the transition to the new Aged Care Act, only 8% of providers reported feeling “very prepared.” The vast majority (79%) said they were “somewhat prepared,” while 9% said they were not prepared and 4% were unsure. These results suggest that while providers are actively taking steps toward reform, confidence levels remain low, with many still unsure of what successful implementation looks like under the new rules.

Key challenges: Regulation and financial pressure

When asked about the most challenging aspect of the 2025 reforms, 33% of respondents identified navigating the new regulatory and compliance framework as their primary concern. Another 30% pointed to managing financial and operational impacts, while 25% highlighted the need to ensure staff and leadership teams are adequately trained. A further 12% said their biggest challenge would be meeting the new Aged Care Quality Standards. These insights suggest that while the standards themselves are crucial, it is the complexity of bringing them to life operationally that providers find most daunting.

Support priorities: Tools, training, and clarity needed

When asked what type of support would be most valuable in preparing for the 2025 reforms, nearly half of respondents (45%) indicated they need practical tools and training for leadership teams. A further 29% called for clearer government guidance and more collaboration across the sector. Nineteen percent identified a need for stronger financial and operational planning resources, while only 7% wanted peer insights or case studies. This strong leaning towards tangible, real-world solutions shows that providers are looking for more than policy updates—they want tools that help them make change happen on the ground.

Confidence in outcomes: A cautiously optimistic sector

When asked if they believe the 2025 reforms will lead to a measurable improvement in aged care quality, just 19% of respondents said yes. The majority (57%) said “maybe,” while 18% said no and 11% were unsure. This reflects a cautious optimism, with many hoping for meaningful change, but recognising that outcomes will depend on continued support, clear direction, and sustained investment.

Looking ahead: Turning policy into practice

With just weeks to go before the new Act comes into effect, providers are shifting their focus from policy awareness to operational readiness. Strategic planning, leadership capability, financial sustainability, and workforce support will all be vital for providers to successfully navigate the reforms.

These findings and more will be explored in detail during our upcoming webinar, Stronger Standards, New Rules, where we’ll break down how aged care providers can respond with clarity and confidence. Make sure to register here to secure your spot.

If you’re struggling to navigate the upcoming reforms, our Aged Care Reform Transition Support Program is here to guide you. We provide tailored advice and sector insights to help you plan, prioritise, and implement these changes with confidence. This includes planning meetings, workshops, diagnostics, and briefings—so you can make informed decisions and seize opportunities with a coordinated, tailored approach. To find out more, reach out today.