Measures that matter should define accountability and governance frameworks

While the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has clearly identified the issues with our Australian residential aged care system, its recommendations—so far—have not been translated into policies that will ensure a framework in which nursing home operators and care staff are empowered to focus on what matters—ensuring vulnerable residents receive care that meets their needs and preserves their dignity. For this to be achievable the system requires measures that in the first instance reflect the system's purpose, and that all stakeholders can use to improve care. Such measures need to be easy to understand and implement, and most importantly reduce bureaucratic burden.