New Zealand Appoints Erin James as Aged Care Commissioner

Announcing the appointment, Associate Minister Costello said the role is particularly important as the government undertakes broader reforms to improve the country’s aged care system.

New Zealand’s Associate Minister of Health Casey Costello has announced the appointment of Erin James as the country’s new Aged Care Commissioner, a role aimed at strengthening oversight of services for older people and ensuring the health system better responds to their needs.

The Aged Care Commissioner operates within the Office of the Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) and plays a key role in advocating for high-quality health and disability services while monitoring how effectively the system supports older New Zealanders.

Ms James will begin her five-year term on 7 April 2026.

Strengthening oversight of aged care services

Announcing the appointment, Associate Minister Costello said the role is particularly important as the government undertakes broader reforms to improve the country’s aged care system.

“The appointment of Ms James as Aged Care Commissioner comes at a time when we are doing work across the aged care system to improve how care is designed and delivered,” Ms Costello said.

She emphasized the need for a more responsive and sustainable system capable of meeting the needs of New Zealand’s growing older population.

“We need a system that provides the right care at the right time and place, that allows for better transitions between types of care, and that is sustainable,” she added.

Experienced oversight and rights advocate

Ms James currently serves as Director of the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT) team at the Office of the Ombudsman, where she leads work focused on monitoring the treatment and rights of people in places of detention and care.

Her experience in oversight, accountability, and human rights monitoring is expected to strengthen protections for older people receiving health and disability services.

The Aged Care Commissioner role was established to ensure greater transparency, advocacy, and accountability across aged care services, including residential care, home support services, and other health-related support systems for seniors.

Growing demand for aged care services

New Zealand’s ageing population has increased pressure on health and support systems, with demand for residential care, home-based services, and specialist health support continuing to grow.

Officials say the Commissioner will play a key role in identifying systemic issues in aged care, advocating for improvements, and ensuring that older people and their families have a stronger voice within the health and disability system.

The appointment is part of wider efforts to improve coordination across aged care services and ensure older New Zealanders receive safe, respectful, and high-quality care.