As of 1 January 2016, Ms Rae Lamb has started work as the 'independent' Aged Care Complaints Commissioner.

Ms Lamb will be supported by a team of 150 people that are located across Australia in multiple sites.

A statement from Sussan Ley, Minister for Aged Care, says that "older Australians have the right to receive quality services and be treated with respect, whether they are in an aged care facility or their own home. This change will strengthen the aged care complaints process, and is now completely separated from the regulation and funding of aged care".

The Aged Care Complaints helpline is now available by phoning 1800 550 552 between 9am to 5pm (AEDST) Monday to Friday or visiting their website out of hours via www.agedcarecomplaints.gov.au.

This positive step will allow care recipients, family members, friends, staff, volunteers and professionals to make a complaint to the new Commissioner if it is not dealt with initially by the service provider.