Why was the Aged Care Code of Conduct (Code) introduced?

The Code aims to:

• support your rights to personal choice, dignity and respect
• promote kind, honest and respectful behaviour
• keep you safe from harm.

What is the Code?

The Code:

• sets out how we (the provider) and the people providing your care must behave and treat you
• strengthens powers to protect you from providers, aged care workers or responsible persons that make you feel unsafe, taken advantage of or disrespected.

Who is covered by the Code?

The Code applies to:

• All registered providers
• Responsible persons of registered providers (e.g., board members and Chief Executive Officers)
• Aged Care Workers (including volunteers)

What should you expect under the Code?

You should always be treated well and feel safe.  As your provider, and the people who deliver your care we must act in a way that is respectful, kind and consistent with the behaviours set out in the Code and the Statement of Rights.  Additionally, it is a requirement of all AQ workers to acknowledge our AQ Code of Conduct.

We must also manage and respond to the behaviour of our workers and responsible persons that do not meet the Code.

If you have any questions or concerns about the Code, you can contact:

• the relevant manager or centre
• the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) on 1800 700 600
• the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission by:
  • completing their online contact form
  • by phone on 1800 951 822 (free call)
  • by emailing info@agedcarequality.gov.au
  • or by postal service and forward it to Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission GPO BOX 9819, in your capital city.

For further information regarding the 8 requirements of the Code - please refer to the attached resource from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission or contact the agencies listed above.