Note: Before you apply for accreditation, you must register your residential service. See register a residential service.
What is accreditation?
The accreditation process improves standards in Queensland´s residential services industry. Residential services can include private boarding houses, supported accommodation hostels and aged rental accommodation that is not exempt.
Within six months of registration, you must apply for accreditation.
You can apply for three levels of accreditation, though all providers must apply for Level 1 accreditation:
- Level 1: Accommodation service
- Level 2: Food service
- Level 3: Personal care service
To obtain accreditation, you must show that your residential service meets minimum standards for each accreditation level. The Residential Services (Accreditation) Regulation 2002 outlines these standards.
Level 1 relates to a resident´s right to:
- privacy and independence
- individual resident agreements
- appropriate record keeping
- protection from abuse and neglect
- grievance mechanisms
- adequate goods and equipment
- access to external professional service providers
- cleanliness and maintenance
- appropriate security and emergency measures
- appropriate business and workplace health and safety practices
- human resource management and staff training.
Level 2 relates to a resident´s right to:
- nutritional food
- safe and hygienic delivery, storage, preparation and service
- kitchen and dining facilities that meet minimum requirements.
Level 3 relates to a resident´s access to:
- external support services
- accountable financial and clerical support
- medication management and health care
- help with clothing and hygiene management
- the living environment
- leisure interests
- social networking
- participation in decision-making processes.
How does accreditation work?
You, as the service provider, use self-assessment workbooks to assess your own services against accreditation standards.
An accreditation officer then examines your policies and procedures, and conducts a site inspection of your premises. This may involve getting information from residents, staff and other relevant people.
What if my service doesn´t meet the standards?
We grant a period of accreditation based on how well your service meets accreditation standards. The maximum accreditation period is three years.
If your service does not meet all the required standards, we may still grant a shorter period with conditions.
For example, a condition might require you to prepare and submit a quality improvement plan, which outlines the steps you will take to improve the service during the accreditation period.
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