This framework contains a range of actions to improve aged care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It sets out aged care reforms under five measurable outcomes. The outcomes are underpinned by four guiding principles that closely align with the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. The framework establishes a 2035 vision for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to age well by having their spiritual, physical and mental health needs met through holistic, high-quality and culturally safe aged care. The framework is importantly person-centred and underpinned by the new rights-based Aged Care Act.

Measurable outcomes

1. Culturally safe and responsive access to aged care.
2. Culturally safe, accurate and prioritised assessment.
3. Culturally safe aged care services in community.
4. More Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander aged care providers.
5. A larger Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce.

Guiding principles

1. Genuine partnership and shared decision-making with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and communities on aged care reforms.
2. Prioritise Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations and increase their participation in the aged care sector.
3. All mainstream institutions, government agencies and stakeholders in the aged care system are accountable to deliver better aged care outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
4. Evidence based on the lived experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will be used to drive aged care reform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.