Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS) Policy Template for Aged Care
The Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS) is a mandatory reporting obligation under the Aged Care Act 1997. Every residential aged care provider in Australia must have a policy and system that identifies, investigates, and notifies the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission of serious incidents involving residents.
This free SIRS policy template covers all eight reportable incident categories, notification timeframes, investigation requirements, and staff obligations — ready to download and adapt for your facility.
What Is the Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS)?
Introduced on 1 April 2021 and expanded in 2023, the SIRS requires approved aged care providers to:
- Identify and record all serious incidents involving residents
- Notify the ACQSC within prescribed timeframes (24 hours for Priority 1; 30 days for Priority 2)
- Investigate incidents and take action to prevent recurrence
- Maintain records of all notifications and investigation outcomes
Failure to comply with SIRS obligations can result in civil penalties and regulatory action by the ACQSC.
The 8 Reportable Incident Categories Under SIRS
- Unreasonable use of force against a care recipient
- Unlawful sexual contact or inappropriate sexual conduct
- Psychological or emotional abuse
- Unexpected death
- Stealing or financial coercion by a staff member
- Neglect of a care recipient
- Use of a restrictive practice not in compliance with requirements
- Unexplained absence of a care recipient from a residential facility
What This SIRS Policy Template Includes
- Purpose, scope, and policy statement
- Definitions for all 8 reportable incident categories
- Priority 1 vs Priority 2 classification framework
- Step-by-step notification procedure (internal escalation and ACQSC reporting)
- Investigation process and documentation requirements
- Resident and family notification obligations
- Staff duties and whistleblower protections
- Record retention requirements
- Roles and responsibilities matrix
- Legislation and standards references
Download the Free SIRS Policy Template
Instant access. Editable Word document. No credit card required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Priority 1 and Priority 2 SIRS incidents?
Priority 1 incidents are those that occurred or are likely to have occurred, and must be notified to the ACQSC within 24 hours of becoming aware. Priority 2 incidents are those that may have occurred and must be notified within 30 days.
Do home care providers need a SIRS policy?
SIRS obligations apply to residential aged care providers. Home care and CHSP providers operate under different incident management obligations. This template is designed for residential settings.
