How to Access Aged Care Services in Australia
Navigating Australia's aged care system can be confusing. This step-by-step guide explains the assessment process, what services are available, and how to get started.
Where to start with aged care
The first step for almost all government-funded aged care in Australia is My Aged Care - the government's entry point for aged care services. You can contact them by phone (1800 200 422) or online at myagedcare.gov.au. They will help you understand what services are available and arrange an assessment.
You can contact My Aged Care on behalf of an older person with their consent, or a carer or family member can also reach out if the person needs help.
The two types of aged care assessment
There are two assessment pathways depending on the level of support needed:
- Regional Assessment Service (RAS) - for people who need entry-level home support. An assessor visits the person at home and determines eligibility for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).
- Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) - for people with more complex care needs. ACAT assesses eligibility for Home Care Packages, residential aged care, transition care, and respite care. ACAT assessors include nurses, social workers, and allied health professionals.
The main types of aged care services
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) provides entry-level home support - things like occasional personal care, domestic assistance, meals, transport, and social activities. It's subsidised by the government and you pay a small client contribution.
Home Care Packages (HCP) are for people with more complex or ongoing needs. Four levels provide varying amounts of funding to help you stay living at home with more intensive support.
Residential aged care (nursing homes or aged care homes) is for people who can no longer safely live at home, even with support. Facilities provide 24-hour care, accommodation, meals, and health services.
Short-term care includes transition care (after a hospital stay), restorative care (to improve independence), and respite care (giving carers a break).
Costs and contributions
Government-funded aged care is subsidised but not always free. What you contribute depends on:
- Your income and assets (assessed by Services Australia / Centrelink)
- The type of service (home support vs residential care)
- The provider you choose
The government publishes fee schedules and sets maximum fees. You can request a fee estimate from My Aged Care or directly from providers before committing.
If you need immediate help
If the older person is at immediate risk, contact My Aged Care and explain the urgency - they can fast-track assessments. Hospitals also have discharge planners who can help organise home support or transition care directly. In an emergency, call 000.
Finding aged care providers
Once you have been assessed and assigned a package or CHSP approval, you choose your own provider. AusCareGuide lists all approved aged care providers across Australia, searchable by suburb and service type, making it easier to compare options in your area.
Not sure which aged care provider is right?
Get free, personal help comparing residential care, home care (Support at Home) and respite options. Free for families, no obligation.
Find Aged Care near you
Browse our directory of registered aged care across Australia, sourced from official government registers.
Search Aged Care →
