The Australian Aged Care Quality Standards are designed to ensure all providers meet clear expectations for safety, dignity, and wellbeing, delivering resident-centred care that respects the needs, choices, and preferences of older Australians. Approved providers of government-funded aged care such as Ryman are required to meet these aged care standards.

The Australian Government’s My Aged Care website outlines and regulates the Quality Standards. Understanding what these standards involve can help you make informed decisions when choosing an aged care provider.

The eight standards are listed below. Each standard is designed to promote independence, respect, and high-quality outcomes for older Australians accessing aged care services.

1. Consumer dignity and choice

This standard is about empowering older people to live the way they choose. At Ryman, we respect your individuality and choice – from how you decorate your room or apartment, to the food you like, to the activities you prefer.

2. Ongoing assessment and planning with consumers 

We continually work with residents and families to review and update care plans to ensure they reflect your current wishes and preferences – right down to how you like your cup of tea.

3. Personal and clinical care

From medication management to wound care, this standard ensures all clinical services are delivered safely and compassionately. Ryman’s clinical team has robust protocols in place to deliver exceptional care, every day.

4. Services and supports for daily living

A good life is more than good health. Whether it’s delicious meals, housekeeping, or meaningful activities, this standard focuses on comfort and engagement. At Ryman, offerings such as the Ryman Engage activities program and Triple A exercise program are designed to keep you connected and fulfilled.

5. Organisation’s service environment

You should feel safe, secure, and at home in residential aged care. Ryman villages are thoughtfully designed with warm, accessible spaces that feel personal and homely.

6. Feedback and complaints

Listening and improving is a core part of our philosophy. Ryman has a transparent process for feedback and complaints. We support residents, families, and team members to speak up so we can continue to improve outcomes.

7. Human resources

The quality of care is only as strong as the people delivering it. Our staff are trained, supported, and empowered to provide exceptional care with kindness and compassion.

8. Organisational governance

Strong leadership and clear accountability are an important part of success. At Ryman, our robust governance framework ensures every part of the organisation is committed to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Choosing an aged care provider is a major life decision, and the Aged Care Quality Standards offer a helpful framework to guide your assessment. Look for how each provider meets these benchmarks in day-to-day practice.

• Dignity and choice: Ask how residents make choices in their daily routines and care.
• Assessment and planning: Check if care plans are updated regularly and include family input.
• Personal and clinical care: Look for well-trained staff and safe clinical practices.
• Daily living support: Ask about meals, activities, and how independence is supported.
• Service environment: Notice if the environment feels safe, clean, and homely.
• Feedback and complaints: Ask how concerns are handled and whether feedback leads to change.
• Human resources: Look for consistent, caring staff and ongoing training.
• Governance: Ask how the provider monitors and improves care quality.

When the Aged Care Quality Standards are embedded into everyday practice – as they are at Ryman – residents and families feel heard, supported, and reassured. These standards aren’t just guidelines; they shape meaningful, person-centred care that builds trust and promotes wellbeing.

For residents

By focusing on individualised support, the standards help ensure a better quality of life, where each person feels genuinely seen, heard, and respected. They support autonomy, allowing you to make informed choices, live safely and comfortably, and maintain independence as you age.

For families

The standards promote open communication and encourage families to be involved in care decisions. They also hold providers accountable, fostering a culture of transparency and continuous improvement. With clear expectations in place, you can feel confident your loved one is receiving the safe, high-quality care they deserve.

With a strong focus on clinical excellence, person-centred care, and transparent governance Ryman villages align with the Australian Aged Care Quality Standards. Ryman’s aged care centres in Australia have passed independent audits, demonstrating a consistent commitment to high-quality care.

Person-centred care

Ryman’s myRyman Care app enables real-time, individualised care planning. Our care staff are highly trained, with continued investment in training and development to ensure excellence in clinical and personal care. Robust procedures are in place for safe medication management and personal care, and activity programmes cater to many different interests and preferences.

Understanding the eight aged care standards is an important step when it comes to choosing the right care provider for you or a loved one.

Ryman has earned a reputation for consistently providing excellence in care. We strive to not just meet, but to exceed each standard, because we believe that older Australians deserve the very best in retirement living and care.

If you’re looking for aged care that exceeds expectations, click below to talk to our friendly team and discover how Ryman villages deliver on every standard.