Skip to main content
All ArticlesArticle

The Statement of Rights: Your 14 Rights in Plain English

The Aged Care Act 2024 sets out 14 rights for every participant. Here is what each one means in practical terms.

The right to dignity and respect. The right to autonomy in daily decisions, such as what to eat, when to sleep and who to see.

The right to information about services in a form the person can use. That includes plain English care plans and large text where it is requested.

The right to choose one's provider. The right to refuse services. The right to raise complaints without fear of retaliation.

The right to safety, including freedom from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

The right to include family, friends and chosen advocates in decisions where the participant wants them to be involved.

The right to receive care that is appropriate for the participant's culture, language, sexuality, gender and faith.

These rights are not aspirational. They are the legal basis on which the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission adjudicates complaints.