End of Additional Services: Preparing for the transition to Higher Everyday Living Fees (HELF)

From 1 November 2025, the Higher Everyday Living Fee (HELF) will become the new framework for optional premium services in residential aged care, replacing the former Additional Services Fee and Extra Service Fee arrangements. Existing arrangements may continue during the transition period until 31 October 2026.

As the aged care sector prepares for the end of Additional Services, providers should review their service agreements pricing arrangements policies and consumer communications to ensure they align with the new regulatory requirements.

This webinar is designed to provide practical guidance to support a smooth, compliant and consumer-focused transition and we will explore:

• Understanding the HELF framework and transition requirements before 31 October 2026
• Developing a separate HELF agreement
• Legacy contractual and legal risks
• Pricing structures and service bundle considerations
• Australian Consumer Law obligations
• Consumer protections and informed consent requirements
• Service agreements and documentation review
• Quality Standards compliance and audit readiness
• Operational and governance considerations for providers

Presented by Victor Harcourt, Principal, Russell Kennedy Lawyers

Victor is a recognised senior practitioner in aged care, retirement living and disability law. With over 30 years’ experience, he is a trusted legal advisor and litigator to his clients. He practises in the regulatory compliance and public law area, as well as litigation and prosecutions.

Victor has been recognised as a preeminent Health & Aged Care Lawyer in Victoria in the 2025 Doyle’s Guide listing. He also holds a Masters in Health and Medical Law and has been consistently listed by Best Lawyers Australia for Health and Aged Care Law since 2012 – including being named ‘Lawyer of the Year’ in Melbourne for Health and Aged Care Law (2014) and Retirement Villages and Senior Living Law (2023). Victor has been recognised in 2014 – 2025 for his expertise in Government Practice and in Retirement Villages and Senior Living Law in 2017 – 2025.