Work progresses towards permanent First Nations Aged Care Commissioner
09 Sep 2026
The office updated its 2026–27 work plan, business plan and risk plan during the month. These plans focus on establishing the permanent Commissioner’s office, maintaining strong connections with communities and the aged care sector, and using evidence to improve access and outcomes.
Legislation moves forward
The office also supported progress of legislation to establish the permanent Commissioner role.
A Senate committee reviewed the Bill and recommended that it be passed by Parliament. The legislation remains before the House of Representatives, with the permanent Commissioner role planned to begin on 1 July 2027.
Work is also underway on the rules, staffing, appointment process and other arrangements needed to establish the permanent office.
The permanent Commissioner will provide independent advice and advocate on aged care issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and older people. The role will also support a more culturally safe, trauma-aware and healing-informed aged care system.
Advisory group being established
The Interim Commissioner has started establishing an Advisory Working Group to provide advice, cultural guidance and community perspectives.
The group will help shape the appointment process, resources, office structure and early priorities for the permanent Commissioner.
It will be co-chaired by the Interim Commissioner and Kim Whiteley, CEO of NATSIAACC, with the first meeting planned for September 2026.
Community and sector engagement
Throughout August, the Interim Commissioner met with representatives from government, community organisations, the aged care sector and research organisations.
Discussions covered First Nations data, aged care workers, Indigenous health and aged care, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, and future engagement across states and territories.
Planning also continued for meetings and events from September to December, including aged care conferences, provider and community visits, and discussions with key sector partners.
The Interim Commissioner said the office had moved from early planning to practical action while continuing to ensure community voices guide the work.
She said there was still important work ahead and that ongoing engagement with Elders, older people, families, communities, providers and partners would be important in building a stronger and more culturally safe aged care system.
Work progresses towards permanent First Nations Aged Care Commissioner
Source: Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner