This report provides an overview of the current aged care environment, aged care planning arrangements and the way aged care places are provided. It outlines support for older people on the threshold of aged care, including information, assessment of aged care needs and specialised services such as incontinence assistance and respite for carers.

The report also outlines the operation of the three principle service streams that make up the aged care system – community aged care, residential aged care and flexible care services – and discusses special access and support arrangements for population groups with special needs.

It concludes by examining measures to support quality and safety in aged care, including regulation and compliance arrangements and the Complaints Investigation Scheme.