From policy to practice: Navigating change in Australia’s aged care sector

As is no news to anyone, the Australian aged care sector is at the forefront of transformative change, with the introduction of the Strengthened Aged Care Standards and the upcoming Support at Home Program from 1 July. 

While these initiatives bring exciting opportunities, they also present significant challenges for providers tasked with translating policy into practice.

For aged care providers, the reforms are more than just a compliance exercise — they require a cultural and operational shift to ensure care is not only delivered but delivered well, consistently, and in alignment with new expectations.

The Strengthened Standards emphasise safety, dignity, and participation, while the Support at Home Program introduces a more integrated and individualised approach to care planning and delivery. Together, they create a blueprint for a system that is sustainable, participant-driven, and focused on outcomes.

However, bridging the gap between these policies and the practical realities of service delivery can be daunting. Providers must adapt their care models, train their workforce, and implement systems that are not only compliant but also innovative and flexible enough to thrive in a competitive and evolving market.

For Lorraine Poulos and Associates (LPA), having supported the sector for over 15 years they understand exactly what uncertainty is brought by sector change. 

LPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Marisa Galiazzo, reflects on having worked with providers in the runway to this change.

“Providers that work with LPA are partnering with a team of consultants who have been in their shoes. Our team has previously held executive roles across the sector, so we can empathise as to where providers currently are standing,” Ms Galiazzo said. 

“Our priority is to ensure we continue to offer clear, useful guidance that helps organisations adapt, improve, and deliver quality care.

“It is easy to get caught up in the enormity of released policy, which is why we maintain practical advice as to how these changes affect a provider’s organisation and what they need to implement to ensure sustained success. ”

LPA’s Managing Director, Lorraine Poulos, adds, “I remember clearly the introduction of Consumer Directed Care and individual budgets. The sector was daunted, and yet we survived. I am hoping this will be the case with the reforms. We needed change, maybe just not all at once.”

An opportunity for change

The reforms present a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the aged care sector, but success requires more than understanding policy. It demands strategic action, collaboration, and a commitment to innovation.

With guidance, aged care providers can move beyond compliance to deliver exceptional, participant-focused care that sets them apart in the evolving market.

For many providers, the question is not just “What do we need to do?” but “How do we make it happen?”.

LPA brings decades of experience to the table when it comes to reform, compliance, and service delivery. LPA specialises in helping providers translate policy into actionable strategies.

Through their experience working alongside providers, LPA highlights key focus areas that are critical for success in navigating the shifting aged care landscape: 

1. Outcome-Based Care Plans: Developing care plans that emphasise wellness, reablement, and measurable outcomes, ensuring consumers actively participate in shaping their care.
2. Caseload Management: Equipping care partners to balance participant needs, administrative demands, and the expectations of individualised care without compromising quality.
3. Integration of Care Teams: Fostering a collaborative care approach where clinical and non-clinical staff work together seamlessly to address all aspects of a consumer’s needs.
4. Participant Budgets and Resource Alignment: Connecting individual budgets to care plans while maintaining financial sustainability and delivering high-quality outcomes.
5. Compliance Readiness: Meeting the strengthened standards with processes, documentation, and systems that demonstrate adherence to the latest regulatory requirements.
6. Workforce Development: Ensuring care managers, coordinators, and frontline staff have the skills and confidence to deliver consumer-centered care in line with reform objectives.
7. Innovative Care Models: Designing and implementing care models that align with the principles of the Support at Home Program, integrating participant choice, financial sustainability, and team-based delivery.

While providers are well under way with these changes and implementations, it’s important that workforce training is not overlooked while wider changes occur.

“By prioritising workforce training, refining operational processes, and adopting a proactive approach to reform, you can position your organisation as a leader in the aged care sector,” Ms Galiazzo shared. 

Organisations seeking guidance in navigating the transition from policy to practice in the evolving aged care sector can benefit from the expertise of consultants such as LPA.

With a focus on innovative solutions and tailored strategies, LPA supports providers in building sustainable, participant-centred care models that align with regulatory requirements and deliver exceptional outcomes. 

Looking for support? 

Navigating this transition successfully requires more than just knowledge of the new regulations — it requires a trusted partner who understands the intricacies of aged care service delivery.

The LPA team doesn’t just bring knowledge, they bring practical, actionable strategies tailored to the unique challenges faced by aged care providers. Whether it’s streamlining operations, ensuring compliance, or improving workforce readiness, they deliver solutions that empower your organisation to adapt and thrive.

With LPA, you’re not just investing in a partner; you’re securing value for money through comprehensive support designed to position your organisation for long-term success.

LPA understands that every provider has different needs and constraints. That’s why their services are designed to provide measurable outcomes, from improved efficiency to financial viability and regulatory compliance.

Their tailored approach ensures that you’re receiving expert guidance aligned with your budget, goals, and vision. LPA’s team comprises seasoned professionals who have held senior roles in the home care sector.

The team’s deep understanding of aged care operations, combined with regulatory expertise, positions LPA as a trusted partner for providers looking to succeed in the Support at Home Program.

Their tailored approach ensures that your organisation’s resources are focused where they’re needed most, allowing you to stay ahead in a dynamic and competitive environment.

Contact the Lorraine Poulos & Associates team at:
[email protected]
(02) 9337 2337
www.lpaconsulting.com.au 
www.linkedin.com/company/lorraine-poulos-and-associates