What nurses need to know about the new Aged Care Quality Standards (2025 April Update)
As autumn paints the landscape with golden leaves, April 2025 also marks a significant shift for those working in aged care across Australia — especially nurses. With the launch of the Quality Standards Resource Centre and the upcoming Aged Care Act 2025 taking effect from 1 July, now is the time for nurses, nurse managers, and internationally qualified nurses (IQNs) to prepare for the future of aged care.
Why these changes matter to nurses
Nurses are at the frontline of aged care. From administering vaccinations to coordinating care plans and advocating for residents’ rights, you play a critical role in both compliance and compassionate service delivery. The strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards reflect a renewed national commitment to ensuring that all older Australians receive high-quality, safe, and person-centred care.
Whether you are already working in aged care, planning to transition into the sector, or are an IQN looking to establish your nursing career in Australia — understanding and applying these new standards is essential.
Introducing the Quality Standards resource centre
Launched by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission in April, this online hub provides more than 500 evidence-based, validated resources designed to support providers, workers, and governing bodies.
You’ll find:
Practical guides on how to implement each of the new Quality Standards
Tools and templates for compliance, quality improvement, and documentation
Case studies and training materials tailored to real-world nursing scenarios
Resources curated from government departments, peak bodies, and expert committees
This is an excellent opportunity for continuing professional development (CPD) and enhancing your readiness for the sector’s future.
👉 Access it here: Quality Standards Resource Centre
What are the strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards?
Set to commence on 1 July 2025, the new Aged Care Quality Standards focus on themes such as:
Person-centred care and dignity
Clinical care governance
Safe and inclusive services
Accountability of governing bodies
Workforce capability and education
As a nurse, you will need to be familiar with these principles, not just in policy but in practice. Understanding your role under the new standards can help improve outcomes for residents and reduce organisational risk.
How nurses can prepare
Here are four key steps to get ahead:
Explore the Resource Centre: Use the filtering tools to find nursing-relevant content, such as infection control, care planning, and clinical risk management.
Update Your CPD Portfolio: Include learning activities and reflections based on the new standards — this is especially beneficial for your NMBA registration requirements.
Attend the National Provider Conference: If you missed in-person registration, virtual tickets are still available. This year’s theme, "Navigating the change – rights and regulation", is essential viewing for all aged care nurses.
Stay Vaccination Aware: Low COVID-19 vaccination rates were highlighted in the Commissioner's April bulletin. Nurses are not only care providers but health educators — make sure you and your residents are protected this winter.
Why International Qualified Nurses should pay attention
For internationally qualified nurses (IQNs) seeking to work in Australia, demonstrating familiarity with the Aged Care Quality Standards is an excellent way to boost your employability. Employers highly value nurses who are up to date with local regulations and can navigate aged care compliance confidently.
Tip: Enrol in transition-to-practice or aged care preparation programs that integrate the new standards. These may also support you with OSCE exam readiness or CPD hours.
The 2025 aged care reform is more than policy change — it's a call to action for nursing excellence. Let’s embrace this moment of transformation to deliver care that is respectful, evidence-based, and empowering for older Australians.
At NurseSucceed, we support nurses and IQNs with tailored training, OSCE preparation, CPD programs, and compliance updates. If you’re ready to level up your aged care career, now is the time.