Government makes changes to aged care Star Rating system

Changes are being made to strengthen the aged care Star Rating system, the Australian Government has announced.

From 1 October 2025, to receive 3 stars or more for their Staffing rating, aged care homes will need to meet both their legislated total care minutes and registered nurse minutes.

The announced changes will be reflected in each home’s Star Ratings from mid-2026 and, the government said, will enhance the information available to older people, their families and carers — to help them understand a home’s performance.

The changes follow a comprehensive and independent public consultation on the Star Ratings system, which gathered feedback from across the sector.

“We’ll always look for ways to improve the Star Ratings system to give older Australians the best information to age with dignity and in the comfort they deserve,” Australia’s Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae said.

“These changes ensure aged care homes remain accountable for meeting their care minutes targets, so every resident can continue to get the care they need at the high standard they deserve.”

In its announcement, the government noted that only 54% of aged care homes had an Overall Star Rating of 4 or 5 stars (good or excellent) in December 2023, while today, 79% of homes do.

To help older people compare and choose aged care homes, Star Ratings are published on the My Aged Care Find a provider tool.

More information on Star Ratings and changes to the Staffing rating is available here, via the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

Image credit: iStock.com/Daniel de la Hoz