New research has confirmed a steady increase in aged care staffing levels across Australia since the introduction of new national care minute targets. However, the findings raise critical concerns about whether these improvements are translating into better care experiences or quality outcomes for older Australians.

The study, conducted by South Australian researchers, analysed data from 2,292 aged care facilities over a 15-month period. It examined whether facilities were meeting mandated staffing targets and whether those efforts influenced resident experiences or measurable quality indicators.

National staffing targets and sector compliance

Since October 2022, Australian aged care homes have been required to meet individualised staffing targets for both total direct care and registered nurse (RN) minutes, aligned with the needs of their residents. The intent is to ensure residents receive the level of care appropriate for their conditions.

The proportion of facilities meeting or exceeding total care minute targets increased from 41% in early 2023 to 53% by March 2024. Government-facilities, smaller organisations, and those located in metropolitan areas were more likely to meet these requirements compared to for-profit or not-for-profit providers, particularly those operating in rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged regions.

More staff does not guarantee better outcomes

Despite these positive staffing measures, the study did not find a direct association between higher care minutes and improved resident experience or quality measures (such as reduced medication use or incidents of restrictive practices). This outcome challenges the assumption that simply increasing staffing hours—particularly registered nurse time—will necessarily result in better care outcomes.

The complexity of aged care delivery, according to the researchers, goes well beyond staffing numbers. Factors such as clinical leadership, staff training, workforce stability, skills mix, and care models all influence quality. The report notes current staffing targets reflect minimum standards and may not align with optimal care levels; particularly as resident needs become increasingly complex.

Sector shifts and rural workforce challenges

The transition in the sector from small, government-run homes to larger, for-profit facilities may also be affecting performance. Between 2013 to 2023, the proportion of small facilities dropped significantly, while the number of for-profit beds rose. This shift warrants close monitoring, particularly as the data shows government-run and smaller facilities consistently achieved better staffing compliance.

Furthermore, the ability of regional, rural, and remote facilities to meet RN care targets remains a significant concern. These areas continue to face longstanding workforce challenges, including difficulties in attracting and retaining health professionals. Recent government initiatives, such as the expansion of the Rural Locum Assistance Program, aim to address these challenges, but their effectiveness will need to be evaluated over time.

While the study acknowledges its limitations, it underscores the importance of maintaining and expanding access to high-quality national data. This, according to the researchers, is critical for ongoing research and for shaping evidence-based policies that improve aged care across Australia.

For training providers, such as Skills Centre Australia, the findings reaffirm the need to focus not just on workforce numbers, but also on quality training, upskilling, and retention strategies that address the multifaceted nature of aged care delivery.

As the sector continues to evolve, the emphasis must shift from merely meeting targets to achieving meaningful improvements in care quality and resident wellbeing. This includes investing in the aged care workforce (particularly in remote areas) and ensuring policy settings reflect the complexity and diversity of care needs across the country.