Information for associated providers
What is an associated provider?
An associated provider is an organisation or business that delivers funded aged care services on behalf of a registered provider, like Churches of Christ.
This can include:
- Allied health providers
- Maintenance or home support services (e.g. gardening, cleaning)
- Nursing or care agencies
- Other contracted service providers delivering funded aged care services
Importantly:
- You do not need to be registered yourself
- But you must meet aged care requirements because you are part of the service delivery system
You may be an associated provider if you:
- Deliver funded aged care services to clients on behalf of Churches of Christ
- Are contracted or subcontracted to provide services directly to clients
You are not an associated provider if you:
- Supply goods only (e.g. equipment suppliers)
- Provide corporate services (e.g. IT, accounting)
- Deliver non‑funded services
Need more detail?
For the latest information, visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.
Learn moreWhat has changed under the Aged Care Act 2024?
From 1 November 2025, aged care reforms introduced a new regulatory model that includes associated providers.
This means:
- You are now formally recognised in legislation
- You are part of the regulated aged care system
- Your services must meet the same quality, safety and rights‑based expectations as registered providers
While Churches of Christ remains legally accountable, your actions directly affect:
- Client safety
- Service quality
- Regulatory compliance
Your responsibilities as an associated provider:
1. Deliver safe, quality care and services.
- Safe, competent and appropriate
- Aligned with the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards
- Delivered in a way that supports wellbeing and independence
2. Respect the rights of older people.
- Dignity and respect
- Choice and independence
- Safety from harm
- Ability to make complaints
3. Follow the Aged Care Code of Conduct.
- Act honestly and respectfully
- Provide care safely and competently
- Prevent and respond to harm, abuse or neglect
4. Support Churches of Christ to meet its obligations.
This means you must:
- Comply with agreed processes and policies (available here)
- Share information when required
- Participate in audits, reviews or investigations
5. Ensure your workforce meets requirements.
- Are appropriately trained and qualified
- Meet worker screening requirements
- Follow the Code of Conduct
- Deliver services safely and respectfully
6. Report incidents, risks and concerns.
- Report incidents (including serious incidents) promptly
- Follow Churches of Christ's incident and complaint processes
- Support investigations and continuous improvement
We're here to support you.
Working as an associated provider is a partnership.
Churches of Christ provides governance, oversight and regulatory accountability.
You deliver services that must meet legal and quality requirements.
Together, we ensure:
- Safe, high‑quality care
- Respect for older people’s rights
- Compliance with aged care legislation
Need support?
If you have questions about your role or responsibilities as an associated provider working with Churches of Christ, please contact: [email protected]
We are here to support you in delivering safe, compliant and high‑quality services.
Learn more.
Explore these helpful videos from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
