The Federal Government has unveiled a draft of the new Code of Conduct for Aged Care, which is set to come into effect on 1 December.

Introduced as part of the Government’s Royal Commission response bill, the Code has been released online in draft format by the Department of Health and Aged Care.

It includes provisions on protecting aged care recipients’ freedom of expression and decision-making, as well as dignity, respect, and privacy; acting with integrity and transparency; preventing violence and sexual misconduct; and acting quickly on concerns about quality, among other measures.

“The Code of Conduct for Aged Care will protect care recipients by ensuring a suitable standard of conduct from their aged care providers, workers, and governing persons (for example, board members and CEOs).

“The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will monitor and enforce compliance with the Code,” the Department said.

Responses on the draft Code are open until 18 October by emailing workerregulationse@health.gov.au.