Understanding the aged care system

There is an assessment process to work through before you can receive services at home. This will help you find the right support and work out if you can receive government funding.

Aged care in Australia

Until 2017, the Commonwealth Government gave funding directly to aged care service providers. This system was changed significantly to give older people more choice and control over their care as they age.

Now, if you're eligible for services, you receive this funding. You're in charge of where and how to spend it. 

 

The Commonwealth government has an assessment process that will work out if you can receive services and funding. This can seem overwhelming, but we can help you understand how it works and support you at every step. 

Services may be available if you are 65 years or older, or 50 years or older if you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.

You will need to complete an assessment through My Aged Care to work out how much support you need with everyday tasks.

 

This will determine what level of care will best suit you and if you’re eligible for funding. 

If it seems that you need lower-level care, this will be done with the Regional Assessment Service (RAS). If you need a higher level of support, this will be done with the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).  

Our step-by-step guide explains this further. We’re happy to answer any of your questions in more detail. 

We offer the Commonwealth Home Support Program  (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP). 

 

CHSP offers entry-level services, like cleaning, personal care, health services, social support, classes and home maintenance (northern regional area only). 

HCP offers higher-level services which are packaged together. This gives you access to a greater range of services if your needs are more complex. Support levels range from Level 1 for basic needs care to Level 4 for high needs care.  

These services can also be provided privately or through the Department of Veteran Affairs.  

Read more about the services you can choose

Our support for older people also includes allied health, residential aged care and support for carers.

 

You can access a range of support at every stage.

Allied health services - like physiotherapy, podiatry, occupational therapy, social work and exercise classes - can support your health and wellbeing. 

When it’s time for a higher level of support, you may like to learn more about our aged care residences

If you're a carer, you can access a range of services to help in your caring role.

Read about all of our services for older people

Home care package estimator

Try our Home Care Package Estimator

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