First Nations commissioner office to open mid-2027

A permanent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Commissioner role has now been established, introducing an independent voice for First Nations Elders and their communities within the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

The establishment of the position forms the central provision of the Aged Care Legislation Amendment (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Commissioner and Other Measures) Bill 2026, which was passed with bipartisan support this week.

The new office will allow the commissioner to directly connect with the regulatory systems that oversee the sector and will enable them to elevate the feedback and priorities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.

The commissioner will also be able to inform policy development and decision-making, building on the work of former Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner Andrea Kelly – who resigned in May and left the role in June – and current interim commissioner Jodi Cassar.

The new office will commence operations on 1 July 2027, following a public, merit-based selection process that will include consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and advocates.