Agenda

Event Agenda

Across this two-day summit, sessions are organised into four strategic streams designed to support providers, carers and aged care leaders. Through expert-led sessions, real-world case studies and peer discussions, attendees will learn directly from those leading reform on the ground, explore proven approaches, and gain the confidence to translate legislative change into meaningful, high-quality care outcomes for older Australians.

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9:00 AM - 12:00 PMWorkshop A – Morning:

Using data AI in your care business

As Australia’s aged care sector enters a new era of reform and accountability, AI is emerging as a powerful enabler. From predictive health analytics and workforce optimisation to digital companions, AI is transforming how providers make decisions and manage operations.

By the end of the workshop, aged care providers and professionals will be able to:

Learn how to structure data to empower local site managers with the business insights they need to optimise performance
Understand how to use data to drive performance:
Workforce optimisation
Care delivery
Operational efficiency
Financial performance
Supercharge data – Use Ai to drive additional analytics, reporting and actionable insights across the business
Map the journey to build an Ai ecosystem
Case study – MaxAi

Workshop Leaders:

9:00 AM - 12:00 PMWorkshop B – Morning:

The new Aged Care Act needs better boards: Strengthening governance for quality, accountability, and trust

As the new Aged Care Act brings greater accountability, transparency, and a stronger focus on consumer rights, boards are facing growing pressure to demonstrate effective governance, strategic oversight, and ethical leadership. This interactive workshop will equip board members, executives, and governance professionals with the tools and insights needed to meet new legislative expectations, strengthen governance frameworks, and lead with confidence in a reform-driven environment.

Through practical discussions, real-world case studies, and guided exercises, participants will explore how to build high-performing boards that drive compliance, sustainability, and person-centred care outcomes.

By the end of this session, attendees will be able to:

Understand the implications of the new Aged Care Act for governance, leadership, and board accountability
Identify strategies to strengthen board capability, culture, and decision-making frameworks
Develop practical steps to embed risk management, clinical governance, and consumer voice at the board level

Workshop Leaders:

12:00 PM Lunch

1:00 PM - 4:00 PMWorkshop A - Afternoon:

Change management & organisational culture: Empowering your workforce to embrace operational and digital transformation

This interactive workshop explores how aged care leaders can foster a resilient and adaptive organisational culture that embraces continuous improvement, inclusive leadership, and technology adoption. Attendees will gain practical strategies for leading change initiatives, improving workforce engagement, and aligning teams around person-centred care goals.

By the end of this workshop, attendees will be able to:

Develop a structured approach to managing change in aged care settings
Build leadership capabilities that promote inclusivity, trust, and collaboration
Identify barriers to digital and operational transformation and strategies to overcome them
Foster a culture of innovation that supports staff wellbeing and person-centred outcomes

Workshop Leader:

1:00 PM - 4:00 PMWorkshop B - Afternoon:

Financial sustainability and business resilience in a changing Aged Care landscape

With the evolving funding models, compliance reforms, and rising operational costs, aged care providers are under increasing pressure to balance financial viability with high-quality, person-centred care. This workshop equips executives and financial leaders with the tools, strategies, and frameworks to strengthen financial sustainability, optimise resource allocation, and build long-term business resilience in an environment of uncertainty and reform.

By the end of this workshop, attendees will be able to:

Analyse financial pressures and opportunities within the new aged care funding and regulatory landscape
Develop sustainable business models that balance compliance, quality care, and profitability
Implement cost-efficiency strategies without compromising workforce wellbeing or resident outcomes
Strengthen financial governance, risk management, and scenario planning to future-proof their organisation

7:30 AM Registration opens

8:30 AM Welcome to country

8:35 AM Opening remarks by the Chair

8:45 AM Ministerial address

Reform, People Cantered Care, Transformation

9:00 AM Opening keynote: Regulation under the new Aged Care Act: Quality and safety in a rights based system

Updates on regulatory milestones, provider obligations, and operational changes since enactment

Common implementation hurdles and innovative approaches to improve care delivery

Strategies for providers to adapt services, enhance governance, and ensure ongoing compliance

Impact of the new act for providers, staff, and participants

9:30 AM Sponsor session: Innovation in practice – How technology, leadership, and design are reshaping the care experience

Leveraging AI to improve care outcomes

Leading a culture of innovation and continuous improvement

Engaging participants, families, and staff in designing innovative solutions for better care experiences

10:00 AM Panel discussion: Operationalising person centred care under the new act

Navigating and enacting the Aged Care Act major shift in emphasis to a rights-based model in the context of the reforms focused on protecting the consumer

Key lessons from translating policy changes into everyday operations and workforce practices

Building sustainable, high-quality care models that prioritise dignity, wellbeing, and person-centred care

Training, support, and leadership to drive and sustain cultural and operational change

Adopting digital tools and systems to support compliance, improve efficiency, and enhance care under the new Act

Panellists:

10:30 AM Sponsor session: Aligning cybersecurity with care quality, compliance and business sustainability

How providers can align cybersecurity investments with clinical risk, service continuity and consumer safety, not just IT priorities
Embedding cybersecurity into governance, compliance and quality frameworks under the strengthened aged care quality standards

11:00 AM Morning Refreshments

Transitioning to Support at Home

11:30 AM Case study: Adapting to the new Support at Home model and its impact on provider financial sustainability

Implementation learnings, post-Act experiences and strategic moves to stay ahead

Strategies for adapting internal processes, workforce planning, and technology systems to comply with the new Support at Home framework

The importance of a streamlined program for participant care quality and safety

12:00 PM Sponsor session: Examining the financial and operational sustainability of the Support at Home program under the new Aged Care Act

What are the implications of the reforms for providers and participants?

Identifying strategies to optimise resource allocation, workforce management, and operational efficiency within home care services

Exploring innovative approaches and best practices to ensure long-term sustainability while maintaining high-quality, person-centred care

12:30 PM Let's talk about it

A 30-minute interactive peer-to-peer discussion exploring:

The top five issues shaping Support at Home implementation
What’s working, what isn’t, and why
Key lessons from the first six months of the new Aged Care Act

1:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM Panel: Adapting to change: Strategies for Home Care providers to deliver better outcomes

How providers are responding to policy, funding, and consumer-driven changes in service delivery

Strategies for managing staffing, training, and technology to maintain quality care at home

Practical approaches, tools, and success stories that help providers cope and thrive during change

Panellists:

2:30 PM Sponsor session: Implementing smart rostering solutions to optimise staff allocation, enhance efficiency, and maintain high-quality, person-centred care

Improving workforce efficiency and reducing burnout through intelligent scheduling and workload balancing

Exploring how data-driven rostering tools can match staff skills, availability, and client needs for optimal care delivery

Ensuring compliance with staffing requirements while maintaining consistent, high-quality, person-centred care

3:00 PM Case study: Building a smarter Support at Home workforce model to ensure quality care and long-term sustainability

Designing an operational workforce model that matches the right staff to each older person’s individual needs

Optimising home care rostering to balance care quality, workforce wellbeing, and financial sustainability

Strengthening staff–client relationships by addressing challenges related to distance, continuity, and scheduling

Workforce capability & leadership development

11:30 AM Case study: Aligning workforce strategy with regulatory and reform requirements

Reform landscape – What it means

Workforce risks & pressures facing the sector

Strategic workforce alignment and opportunities

12:00 PM Sponsor session: Addressing the ongoing shortage of registered nurses and care staff, particularly in meeting care minute requirements for residents with higher acuity levels

Partnering with the right staffing agency to support your skilled workforce need

Developing recruitment and retention strategies to build a stable, motivated and skilled care workforce

Leveraging technology and workforce planning tools to optimise rostering, staffing ratios, and care delivery efficiency

Investing in upskilling and career pathways for your workforce

12:30 PM Let's talk about it

A 30-minute interactive peer-to-peer discussion exploring:

The top 5 issues shaping workforce leadership, capability development, and organisational culture
What’s working, what isn’t, and why
Key lessons emerging from the first six months of the new Aged Care Act

1:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM Panel: Building a culture of innovation through effective change management and leadership

Lifting leaders’ capability to transform the care sector

Understanding how structured change management can support successful implementation of reforms and new care models

2:30 PM Sponsor: Using real-time data to improve care outcomes, resource allocation, and workforce rostering

Enhancing care quality with timely, data-driven insights

Optimising resources to reduce waste and improve efficiency

Streamlining rostering for better staff balance and compliance

3:00 PM Leading through change by fostering continuous learning and inspiring motivated, future-ready leaders in aged care

Building a culture of learning to drive compliance, adaptability and innovation

Mentorship and strengthening of career pathways

M&A, ownership & investment trends

11:30 AM Case study: Understanding financial prudential reforms and their impact for Aged Care providers

Examining the key financial prudential requirements under the new Aged Care Act and their impact on provider operations

Identifying practical steps to ensure long-term financial sustainability and compliance within the evolving aged care funding framework

12:00 PM Sponsor session: The new aged care act – financial and legal implications for board members and executives

Understanding heightened governance, financial accountability and legal obligations under the new Aged Care Act
How boards and executives can strengthen oversight, risk management and compliance to protect organisational sustainability and reputation

12:30 PM Let's talk about it

A 30-minute interactive peer-to-peer discussion exploring:

The top 5 issues impacting financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and business resilience, with a focus on lessons learned and actionable strategies
What’s working, what isn’t, and why
Key lessons emerging from the first six months of the new Aged Care Act

1:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM Panel: Building financial resilience and governance for sustainable growth under new funding and compliance frameworks

Implementing financial management practices that meet liquidity and investment requirements

Strengthening governance structures to support compliance and strategic decision-making

Adapting to new funding models and regulatory frameworks while driving operational efficiency

2:30 PM Sponsor session: Leveraging data for better informed financial decision making

Improving forecasting, budgeting and funding decisions through timely, accurate and actionable financial insights
Using data to identify cost pressures, optimise resource allocation and strengthen financial sustainability

3:00 PM Case study: Achieving sustainable growth through strategic acquisitions

Why would smaller organisations consider mergers or divestment

Consideration by all stakeholders – End game

The M&A process

Streamlining operations and integrating cultures post-acquisition for long-term stability and
Case Study
- Preservation of Legacy
- Time to complete

Strengthened care standards

11:30 AM Keynote: Achieving organisational and operational excellence through the strengthened aged care quality standards

Embedding the statement of rights into everyday care practice to uphold the rights and voices of older people

Measuring the impact of reforms on quality of life, wellbeing, and consumer trust

Delivering consistent, high-quality, and person-centred care aligned with the updated regulatory expectations

12:00 PM Sponsor session: Enhancing care and compliance with technology

Measuring the return on technology investment through improved outcomes, workforce efficiency, and compliance performance

Building a balanced digital strategy that aligns innovation with person-centred care principles
Challenges & opportunities

12:30 PM Let's talk about it

A 30-minute interactive peer-to-peer discussion exploring:

The top 5 issues in operating within a rights-based system, including governance, compliance, and embedding person-centred care into everyday practice
What’s working, what isn’t, and why
Key lessons emerging from the first six months of the new Aged Care Act

1:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM Panel: Building a sustainable and people-centred future care sector

Designing care around what older Australians and their families truly value to build trust, dignity, and person centred experiences

Understanding evolving expectations around transparency, communication, and personalised care experiences

Embedding dignity, choice, and independence at the heart of service design and delivery

Strengthening family engagement to build trust and improve satisfaction across the care journey

Panellists:

2:30 PM Sponsor session: Leveraging data analytics and business intelligence to strengthen compliance and operational excellence

Using real-time insights to monitor performance, identify risks, and ensure regulatory compliance

Streamlining reporting processes to improve accuracy, transparency, and accountability

Turning compliance data into actionable intelligence to enhance decision-making and quality of care

3:00 PM Case study: Reimagining Dementia Care: A collaborative person-centred approach to supporting people living with dementia – The Mercy Health model care

Redefining traditional residential aged care by prioritising residents’ personal choice, independence, and quality of life

Introducing four collaboratively developed principles that enhance engagement, create supportive environments, and uplift staff capability

Sharing key challenges and lessons learned to guide successful implementation

3:30 PM Afternoon Refreshments

4:00 PM Roundtables

The interactive roundtable discussions offer a unique chance to engage with peers, sharing common challenges and best practices on a topic of your choice. At the end of the discussion, facilitators will share a summary of the key findings to the entire group, allowing all participants to benefit from the collective insights.

Transitioning to the new Aged Care Act: From compliance to meaningful implementation Explore practical strategies for translating legislative changes into genuine improvements in care delivery, culture, and accountability. Discuss how providers can move beyond tick-box compliance to embed person-centred practices that meet both regulatory and community expectations.
Building tomorrow’s workforce: Equipping carers with the skills to support an ageing Australia Discuss future workforce needs, skill development, and strategies to attract, train, and retain the next generation of aged care professionals.
AI in Aged Care: Enhancing quality, compliance, and operational efficiency Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping aged care — from predictive analytics and workforce optimisation to personalised care and regulatory reporting. Learn how to responsibly adopt AI tools that boost efficiency while maintaining human-centred care.
Building financial sustainability and business resilience in a changing Aged Care landscape Examine how providers can balance financial stability with care quality amid funding pressures, workforce challenges, and growing demand. Share insights on innovative business models, diversification strategies, and technology investments that strengthen long-term resilience.
Navigating funding, fees, and charges under the Support at Home program Unpack the complexities of the Support at Home reforms, including pricing structures, funding models, and compliance obligations. Gain clarity on how to effectively communicate changes to clients and sustain financial viability through the transition.
Strengthening risk management and governance in Aged Care Discuss practical approaches to embedding a proactive risk culture that safeguards residents, staff, and reputation. Learn how to align governance frameworks with evolving standards, accountability measures, and operational realities.

4:30 PM The critical role of food and nutrition in maintaining wellbeing, preventing disease, and dignified ageing

Designing nutritious, safe, and culturally appropriate meal programs that align with accreditation requirements

Implementing efficient food service processes to improve resident satisfaction and operational compliance

Using feedback and quality metrics to continuously refine menus and dining experiences for better care outcomes

5:00 PM Closing remarks from the Chair and end of day one

5:10 PM Networking cocktail reception

7:00 PM Networking dinner

8:00 AM Registration opens

8:45 AM Opening remark from the Chair

Delivery, Innovation & Sustainability

9:00 AM Opening keynote: Driving digital transformation and system reforms through the act

Turning compliance into an opportunity for innovation and efficiency

Streamlining operations and reducing administrative burden through digital tools and automation

Empowering consumers with greater choice, transparency, and control over their care experience

Enabling data informed decisions to improve care quality, responsiveness, and organisational performance

9:30 AM Sponsor session: Leveraging technology to enhance data governance while maintaining trust and transparency

The role of robust technology infrastructure in ensuring data security, compliance, and operational efficiency

The importance of having a secure and scalable technology infrastructure in aged care
Strategies to mitigate cyber risks and protect resident information from potential threats

10:00 AM Panel: My care, my voice: A lived experience of co-creating what truly works

Embedding lived experience into care design, delivery, and evaluation

Translating personalised care and support plan standards into meaningful, everyday practice

Partnering with older people, families, and carers to improve care outcomes and satisfaction

Using feedback, data, and lived experience insights to continuously improve care quality

Panellists:

10:30 AM Sponsor session: Moving beyond dashboards to prepare for a future where insight is embedded directly into decision-making and operations

11:00 AM Morning Refreshments

Leveraging technology to streamline operations and improve quality of care

11:30 AM Advancing and implementing technology to transform home care services

Leveraging digital tools and assistive technologies to enhance client independence and quality of care at home

Integrating data, automation, and remote monitoring to improve service coordination and efficiency

Overcoming barriers to technology adoption through staff training, digital literacy, and user-friendly design

12:00 PM Sponsor session: Supporting diverse client needs through technology-enabled accessibility, safety, and personalised care solutions

12:30 PM Let's talk about it

A 30-minute interactive peer-to-peer discussion exploring:

The top five issues shaping Support at Home implementation
What’s working, what isn’t, and why
Key lessons from the first six months of the new Aged Care Act

1:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM Panel: Redesigning care through collaboration: Leveraging brokerage and third party partnerships in support at home

Designing financially viable Support at Home operating models that balance affordability, compliance, and quality outcomes
Optimising care delivery models, workforce structures, and partner networks
Mitigating compliance, financial, and delivery risks when working with third-party providers, subcontractors, and support services

2:30 PM Sponsor session: Examining new, holistic models of care that combine health, wellbeing, and community connection to promote independence and longevity

3:00 PM Growing and adapting your business under the support at home model

Adopting your service model, workforce and operations to remain sustainable under Support at Home reforms
Strategies used to manage costs, improve efficiency and maintain quality of care during the transition
Practical lessons on scaling services while meeting compliance, funding and consumer expectations

11:30 AM Driving staff retention and performance: Empowering your team to work at their full potential despite workforce pressures

Investing in continuous training and professional development to ensure carers are equipped to deliver safe, high-quality, and compliant care under the new act

Meeting new training and qualification demands arising from regulatory reforms, including mandatory skills development and continuous professional education

12:00 PM Sponsor session: Addressing workforce challenges in remote and rural communities

Providing targeted support and incentives to attract and retain remote care staff

Offer local training and upskilling opportunities to build confidence and career growth

Leveraging technology and telehealth to support care delivery and connectivity

12:30 PM Let's talk about it

A 30-minute interactive peer-to-peer discussion exploring:

The top 5 issues shaping workforce leadership, capability development, and organisational culture
What’s working, what isn’t, and why
Key lessons emerging from the first six months of the new Aged Care Act

1:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM Panel: Embedding diversity and inclusion

Supporting a diverse and inclusive environment for their clients and aged care workers

Panellists:

2:30 PM Sponsor session: Integrating HR technology and data to support safe, person-centred care

Leveraging digital innovation to enhance care quality and workforce efficiency
Empowering care workers through technology to streamline workflows and reduce administrative burden

Adopting data-driven insights to optimise staffing, resource allocation, and care outcomes

3:00 PM Empowering your workforce for the best dementia care

Equipping staff with specialised dementia care training

Fostering empathy and understanding to support person-centred approaches

Building a supportive culture that prioritises wellbeing for both carers and residents

ESG, green facilities & sustainable investment

11:30 AM Building a resilient future through ESG investments and sustainable infrastructure that deliver long-term financial and environmental value

Leveraging ESG strategies to reduce costs, attract funding, and strengthen organisational resilience

Aligning sustainable goals with operational excellence to enhance reputation and community trust

12:00 PM Sponsor session: Technology as an enabler for financial sustainability

Leveraging automation and digital tools to reduce operational costs and improve efficiency

Using data analytics to optimise resource allocation, forecasting, and financial decision-making

Implementing technology-driven revenue models and innovative service delivery to enhance long-term financial resilience

12:30 PM Let's talk about it

A 30-minute interactive peer-to-peer discussion exploring:

The top 5 issues impacting financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and business resilience, with a focus on lessons learned and actionable strategies
What’s working, what isn’t, and why
Key lessons emerging from the first six months of the new Aged Care Act

1:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM Panel: Managing business sustainability amid rising operational and compliance Cost

Examining the economy of care and navigating road ahead

Optimising funding models, efficiency reforms, pricing structures, and workforce sustainability to strengthen the sector

Ensuring the aged care system delivers high-quality, affordable care for the future

Panellists:

2:30 PM Sponsor session: Upholding financial integrity and fairness through transparent charging and claims management processes

Reflecting on lessons learned of implementing the new Aged Care Act and its financial reporting requirements

Examining how providers have enhanced billing transparency and accountability to strengthen trust with older Australians

Practical strategies for maintaining compliance, accuracy, and efficiency in charging and claims management post-implementation

3:00 PM IHACPA’s approach to aged care reform and pricing

Providing clear guidance on navigating regulatory changes and reform requirements to ensure compliance

Implementing pricing strategies that balance affordability, quality care, and financial sustainability

Offering insights and frameworks to help providers optimise revenue, manage costs, and maintain operational viability

11:30 AM Leveraging AI to drive better reporting and decision-making for person centred care outcomes

Streamlining data reporting to give care teams timely, actionable insights

Supporting informed decision making by leveraging predictive analytics and AI-driven recommendations

Enhancing personalised care by aligning interventions with individual needs and preferences

12:00 PM Sponsor session: Combining clinical and technical safety with productivity in medication management

How providers can combine clinical and technical safety controls to reduce medication errors while meeting regulatory and quality standards
Improving workforce productivity and care continuity through streamlined medication management processes and digital support tools

12:30 PM Let's talk about it

A 30-minute interactive peer-to-peer discussion exploring:

The top 5 issues in operating within a rights-based system, including governance, compliance, and embedding person-centred care into everyday practice
What’s working, what isn’t, and why
Key lessons emerging from the first six months of the new Aged Care Act

1:00 PM Lunch

2:00 PM Panel: Transforming care quality through digital innovation

Using technology to deliver personalised, responsive, and connected care experiences

Leveraging data and digital tools to enhance decision-making, safety, and overall care outcomes

Streamlining workflows and reducing administrative tasks to give carers more time for meaningful interactions

Panellists:

2:30 PM Sponsor session: Safeguarding resident data and managing cyber risk in line with data privacy regulations

Implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive resident information from breaches

Developing incident response and risk management plans to swiftly address potential data security challenges

3:00 PM Driving safer, person-centred care through smarter use of technology and data intelligence

3:30 PM Afternoon Refreshments

4:00 PM Panel: How providers are responding to real consumer feedback to deliver more person-centred care

Using consumer voice to drive continuous improvement and meet evolving regulatory expectations

What’s working, what’s not, and how providers are adapting with meaningful change

Improving complaints handling & building a culture of open disclosure and improved care

Building trust and strengthening relationships with residents and families through transparent communication practices

Panellists:

4:30 PM Business intelligence in senior living: A collaborative approach to operational excellence

Leveraging data for informed decision-making

Breaking down silos between care, operations, finance, and leadership through shared insights and dashboards

Integrating technology for seamless reporting

Best practices and lessons learned

Agenda

Event Agenda

Workshop Leaders:

Stephen Becsi

Alissa Brown

Juliana Lali

Dr Richard Rosewarne

Workshop Leaders:

Erin McMullen

Kate Francis

Kate Littlewood

12:00 PM Lunch

Workshop Leader:

Rachael Cook

7:30 AM Registration opens

8:30 AM Welcome to country

Veronica Jamison

8:45 AM Ministerial address

Reform, People Cantered Care, Transformation

Liz Hefren-Webb

Panellists:

Tamar Krebs

Todd Yourell

11:00 AM Morning Refreshments

Transitioning to Support at Home

James Whitelaw

1:00 PM Lunch

Panellists:

Laura Camish

Amanda Guianane

Laura Camish

Workforce capability & leadership development

Adam Priest

1:00 PM Lunch

Michael Rasheed

Tracey Green

Analou Cariaga

Lehi Cerna

M&A, ownership & investment trends

Joe Azzi

1:00 PM Lunch

Andrew Stephens

Adam Green

Barry Ashcroft

Michael O’connor

Strengthened care standards

The Hon. John Ajaka

1:00 PM Lunch

Panellists:

Cameron McPherson

Kristopher McMurdy

Johannes Brockhaus

Shelly Fletcher

Ben Gatehouse

3:30 PM Afternoon Refreshments

5:00 PM Closing remarks from the Chair and end of day one

5:10 PM Networking cocktail reception

7:00 PM Networking dinner

8:00 AM Registration opens

8:45 AM Opening remark from the Chair

Delivery, Innovation & Sustainability

Panellists:

Gwenda Darling

Beverly Baker

Mel White

11:00 AM Morning Refreshments

Leveraging technology to streamline operations and improve quality of care

Dmitry Shibanov

1:00 PM Lunch

Lauren Croiset

Daryl Sahli

Ben Williams

1:00 PM Lunch

Panellists:

Rachael Cook

Melissa Leahy

Lehi Cerna

Kaele Stokes

ESG, green facilities & sustainable investment

Graeme Wickenden