Prison sentences for negligent Aged Care practitioners

Board members of Aged Care facilities could face up to five years in prison if they are found to be negligent. It follows a release of an exposure draft for the Albanese government’s new Aged Care Act. It is intended to address systemic failures in the system. Aged Care experts are concerned the steep penalties could have a deterrent effect on volunteers who are unlikely to be able to cover the cost of personal liability in their roles. The Aged Care Royal Commission recognised volunteers as an integral part of the Aged Care system.