Better food and nutrition for older people
Delicious and nutritious meals and a positive dining experience are important parts of living a healthy and happy life. We are making changes to improve the quality of life for older people living in aged care homes through a range of food and nutrition initiatives.
This includes:
- publishing key food and nutrition information through the Star Ratings
- the introduction of a draft dedicated food and nutrition standard as part of the draft strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, currently being piloted
- mandating strengthened food and nutrition reporting through the Quarterly Financial Report.
We have also partnered with the Maggie Beer Foundation to deliver the free Improving Food in Aged Care through Education and Training program over the next 3 years.
The program aims to support aged care chefs and cooks to source, prepare and serve food that is both delicious and nutritious.
Find out more about the program.
If you have concerns about your or a loved one's food, nutrition or dining experience at their aged care home, you can now call a dedicated Food, Nutrition and Dining Hotline. The hotline can be reached on 1800 844 044 between 9am and 5pm AEST Monday to Friday.
The Food, Nutrition and Dining Hotline is run by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. The Hotline can give people receiving aged care, their families, carers and advocates direct access to a dedicated team to discuss issues about food, nutrition and dining in aged care.
Read the fact sheet for aged care residents to find out more about what you can expect when you call the Hotline.
Let's change aged care, together
Every Australian should feel confident about accessing high quality and safe aged care, when and where they need it.
The changes mean Older people will have greater choice and control, services that respect and meet their needs, and support to stay independent as they age.
To find out more and help design the changes, visit the Get Involved page or call 1800 318 209.