Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Aged Care

Aged care is a deeply personal and often overwhelming journey — whether you’re planning for your own future, supporting ageing parents, or exploring care options for a loved one. Between the paperwork, providers, and policies, it’s easy to feel lost in the process. To help you find clarity, we’ve compiled the top 10 questions we’re most frequently asked about aged care. From understanding different care options to knowing what financial support is available, this guide aims to simplify the complex and give you confidence moving forward.

Let’s explore the answers to the most important aged care questions families are asking today.

Navigating Aged Care: Answers to the Top 10 Most Common Questions

What is the process for appealing an aged care assessment decision?

If you disagree with the outcome of your aged care assessment, you can appeal the decision through My Aged Care. The first step is to contact the My Aged Care contact centre to discuss your concerns. They will guide you through the appeal process, which may involve a re-assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). It’s important to provide any additional information or documentation that supports your case. The appeal process aims to ensure that all individuals receive the appropriate level of care based on their needs.

Are there specific aged care services for veterans in Australia?

Yes, Australia offers dedicated aged care services for veterans through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). These services include access to home care, residential care, and respite services tailored to the unique needs of veterans. The DVA provides additional support, including financial assistance and priority access to aged care services. Veterans can also receive assistance with navigating the aged care system, from understanding eligibility to arranging services, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve. For more information, veterans should contact the DVA directly or visit their website.

How can I find culturally appropriate aged care services?

To find culturally appropriate aged care services, start by contacting My Aged Care, which can connect you with providers that offer culturally sensitive support. Additionally, look for service providers like Cura that have experience working with specific cultural communities or that employ bilingual staff. Community organisations and local cultural groups can also provide recommendations and resources. It’s essential to discuss your cultural needs with potential providers to ensure they can accommodate your preferences and requirements effectively.

What role do family members play in the aged care planning process?

Family members play a crucial role in the aged care planning process by providing support, sharing insights about the individual’s needs, and helping to make informed decisions. They can assist in gathering necessary documentation, attending assessments, and communicating preferences to care providers. Family involvement ensures that the care plan reflects the individual’s values and lifestyle choices. Open communication among family members, the individual receiving care, and care providers is vital for creating a supportive and effective care environment.

What should I do if I suspect elder abuse in aged care?

If you suspect elder abuse in aged care, it is crucial to take immediate action. You can report your concerns to the aged care provider’s management or the relevant state or territory authority. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission also provides a hotline for reporting abuse and neglect, offering a confidential way to raise concerns. It’s important to document any evidence or observations that support your concerns, such as dates, times, and descriptions of incidents. Protecting the well-being of the elderly individual is paramount, and authorities are equipped to investigate and address such issues appropriately to ensure the person’s safety and dignity.

How can I ensure my aged care provider meets quality standards?

To ensure your aged care provider meets quality standards, research their accreditation status through the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. Look for reviews and feedback from current or past clients, and ask about their staff qualifications and training. Regularly communicate with the provider about care plans and expectations, and don’t hesitate to raise any concerns. Additionally, you can participate in care reviews and assessments to monitor the quality of services being provided, ensuring they align with your needs and preferences.

What are the rights of aged care recipients in Australia?

Aged care recipients in Australia have specific rights protected under the Aged Care Act 1997. These rights include the right to be treated with dignity and respect, to receive care that meets their individual needs, and to participate in decisions about their care. Recipients also have the right to express their views and preferences, access information about their care, and raise concerns without fear of retribution. Understanding these rights empowers individuals and their families to advocate for quality care and support, ensuring accountability within the aged care system.

What Are the Main Types of Aged Care Services Available in Australia?

Aged care services encompass home-based support through consumer-directed packages, 24-hour residential facilities, short-term respite programs, and specialised clinical care for conditions such as dementia and palliative needs. By matching care intensity to individual circumstances, these options improve independence, quality of life, and peace of mind for both older Australians and their families.

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Aged care in Australia (2023)

Before detailing each service, consider this high-level comparison of attributes:

Service Type	Primary Attribute	Core Benefit
In-Home Care	Personal & Nursing	Enables older Australians to remain safely at home with daily support
Residential Aged Care	24-Hour Facility Care	Provides round-the-clock nursing and allied health services
Short-Term & Respite Care	Temporary Relief	Offers planned or emergency breaks for carers and transitions
Specialised Care (Dementia, Palliative)	Clinical Expertise	Delivers condition-specific therapies and symptom management

This service breakdown clarifies how in-home and residential options meet diverse needs, while respite and specialised programs provide additional layers of support. Together, these services form a continuum of care, setting the foundation for understanding eligibility pathways and tailoring aged care solutions to each individual’s circumstances.

What Is In-Home Care and Who Can Benefit from It?

In-home care delivers personal care, domestic assistance and nursing visits directly to a person’s residence, promoting comfort and independence. Individuals with mild to moderate support needs—such as personal care and showering assistance, medication reminders or meal services – gain confidence and social connection. In-home services are an essential part of ensuring quality care.
Key elements include:

• Personal support workers for daily living activities
• Registered nurses for medication management and wound care
• Allied health referrals for mobility and exercise programs

By reducing falls and hospital admissions, in-home care seamlessly bridges daily routines and clinical oversight, laying the groundwork for choosing the right residential or respite option if needs evolve.

How Does Residential Aged Care Work and What Services Are Included?

Residential aged care offers permanent or respite placement in accredited facilities staffed by 24-hour nursing and allied health professionals. Residents receive assistance with personal hygiene, meals, medication, and social activities within a supervised environment.
Typical services include:

• Personal care and lifestyle support
• Clinical nursing and wound management
• Physiotherapy, podiatry and occupational therapy
• Social and recreational programs

Residents benefit from integrated care pathways and community engagement, ensuring clinical oversight and social stimulation under one roof, which informs decisions about temporary respite or long-term stays.

What Are Short-Term and Respite Care Options?

Short-term and respite care provide temporary stays – ranging from a few days to several weeks – in residential facilities or through in-home relief, allowing primary carers to rest or manage emergencies. These services support respite care for people recovering from surgery or when family circumstances change.
List of respite modalities:

• In-Residential Respite: Scheduled breaks in a nursing home
• Short-Term Restorative Care: Rehabilitation-focused programs after hospital discharge
• Emergency Respite: Unplanned support during caregiver crises

Such options enhance carer wellbeing and maintain consistent support for older Australians, creating smoother transitions back to usual care settings.

What Specialised Care Services Are Offered, Including Dementia and Palliative Care?

Specialised care services target complex needs through multidisciplinary teams trained in dementia, cognitive impairment and end-of-life management. By combining medical, behavioural and emotional support, these programs maintain dignity and comfort.
Key specialised services:

• Dementia Care: Memory support, cognitive therapies and structured activities
• Palliative Care: Pain management, symptom relief and psychosocial support
• Behavioural Support: Strategies for challenging behaviours and carer education

This specialised approach ensures tailored interventions and compassionate support, seamlessly integrating with in-home or residential settings depending on individual requirements.

How Do I Determine My Eligibility for Aged Care Services Through My Aged Care?

Eligibility for government-funded aged care begins with a free assessment via My Aged Care, which uses the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) to evaluate health, independence, lifestyle, and cultural needs. By completing this step, individuals unlock access to home support packages, residential care, respite services, or urgent care options depending on their situation.
Primary eligibility checkpoints:

• ACAT Assessment: Confirms support requirements and package level
• Home Care Package Criteria: Age, care needs and living arrangements
• Residential Care Requirements: Higher care intensity and medical oversight
• Urgent Care: Fast-tracked assessments for critical situations

Understanding these criteria ensures a smooth pathway from initial enquiry to service delivery and prepares families for the next stage of planning, including choosing providers and tailoring services to meet the individual’s needs.

What Is the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) and How Does the Assessment Process Work?

The Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) comprises health professionals who conduct in-home or facility visits to determine service eligibility. Assessors review medical history, mobility, cognition and social support networks before recommending appropriate care levels.
Assessment steps include:

• Referral to My Aged Care via phone or online
• Scheduling an in-person or video assessment within days
• Completing health and lifestyle questionnaires
• Receiving an assessment outcome and referral letter

By clarifying individual needs, ACAT recommendations drive funding allocations for Home Care Packages and residential placements, seamlessly connecting assessment to service commencement.

Who Qualifies for a Home Care Package and What Are the Eligibility Criteria?

Home Care Packages support Australians aged 65 and over (50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) who require ongoing in-home assistance. Eligibility hinges on assessed care needs, ability to live safely at home and capacity to manage funds or engage a plan manager.

My Aged Care, Home Care Packages (2024)

Core Home Care Package criteria:

• Formal ACAT recommendation
• Clearance of means-tested financial assessment
• Approval for Level 1 to Level 4 based on care complexity

These criteria ensure funding aligns with care intensity, enabling older Australians to remain independent within familiar surroundings.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Residential Aged Care?

Residential care eligibility demands an ACAT-endorsed need for full-time supervision, clinical nursing and allied health support. Applicants must demonstrate that in-home care cannot safely meet their health or mobility requirements.
Key eligibility requirements:

• ACAT-confirmed high care needs
• Medical certificate for complex health conditions
• Availability of suitable accommodation in approved facilities

These requirements guarantee that residents receive comprehensive oversight and therapeutic support in a secure environment, where daily living assistance, medical care, and social engagement are delivered under one roof.

How Can Urgent or Priority Care Needs Be Assessed?

Urgent assessments fast-track people with immediate safety or health risks into aged care services, prioritising those facing hospital discharge delays or carer breakdowns. ACAT convenes within 24 hours to determine emergency support pathways.
Urgent assessment triggers:

• Hospital clinicians’ referrals for delayed discharges
• Reports of imminent carer fatigue or crisis
• Sudden health declines requiring immediate intervention

This fast-track system minimises care gaps and stabilises living arrangements for older Australians in crisis, ensuring they receive timely support, safe accommodation, and continuity of medical care.

How Do I Apply for Aged Care Services in Australia?

Applying for aged care services involves registering with My Aged Care, arranging an ACAT assessment and gathering documentation to verify identity, income and health status. A clear timeline and prepared paperwork smooth the process from registration to funding approval.
Application overview:

• Register online or by phone with My Aged Care
• Book and attend the ACAT assessment
• Submit proof of age, residency, income and assets
• Receive an approval letter and choose a provider

This structured approach reduces delays and aligns expectations for service commencement.

What Are the Steps to Register with My Aged Care?

Registration with My Aged Care begins by confirming identity and care needs via a simple online form or call centre. Registrants then receive a unique reference number for tracking their application and assessment status.
Registration steps:

• Provide name, date of birth and residential address
• Describe current support needs and living arrangements
• Answer preliminary health and income questions
• Receive a My Aged Care reference ID for follow-up

Completing registration accurately ensures ACAT assessments proceed without administrative hold-ups.

How Is the ACAT Assessment Scheduled and Conducted?

Once registered, the ACAT team contacts applicants within days to arrange an
or virtual assessment. Assessors use standardised tools to evaluate physical, cognitive and social factors contributing to care needs.
Scheduling and conduct:

• Phone call to agree on interview format and timing
• Structured interview covering daily activities and health history
• Observations of mobility and living conditions
• Discussion of personal preferences and cultural requirements

A clear assessment report follows, detailing recommended care pathways.

What Documentation and Information Should I Prepare for Application?

Gathering accurate documentation ahead of the ACAT assessment accelerates approval. Key items include identification, proof of income, medical records and details of existing support arrangements.
Essential documentation:

• Driver’s licence or passport for identity verification
• Centrelink income statements and bank account details
• Recent medical reports and medication lists
• Details of previous home care or hospital discharge plans

Preparation of these documents prevents administrative delays and enables a faster transition to funded services.

How Long Does the Application and Assessment Process Take?

The end-to-end process from registration to care commencement typically unfolds in several stages, and while timelines care vary, depending on assessment queues and how quickly documentation is provided, a general guide is outlines below. Urgent referrals can reduce this for individuals at immediate risk, such as those awaiting hospital discharge or experiencing unsafe living conditions.
Timeline expectations:

• Initial Eligibility Check: You can complete this online or by calling My Aged Care. This step is usually quick – often same day.
• Referral for assessment: If you are eligible, you’ll be referred for an in-person assessment.
• ACAT assessment scheduling: Most assessments are scheduled within 2–6 weeks, with urgent cases given priority where possible.
• Assessment outcome and referral: After the assessment, you will be notified of your eligibility and the types of services available to you. This can take 1–4 weeks, depending on the complexity of your needs.
• Provider matching and service start: 1–2 weeks

Understanding these timeframes helps families plan for seamless care transitions.

What Are the Funding Options and Costs Associated with Aged Care Services?

Funding for aged care in Australia combines government subsidies, income- or means-tested contributions.. The balance between these ensures affordability for families while maintaining the sustainability of quality care.

Funding Scheme	Attribute	Value or Coverage
Government Subsidy (Residential)	Average Coverage	75 percent of basic daily care fees
Government Subsidy (Home Care)	Average Coverage	95 percent of package-funded services
Means-Tested Care Fee	Income-Based Contribution	Up to 17.5 percent of assessable income
Accommodation Payment	Lump Sum or Rental	Depends on asset assessment and personal preference
NDIS Funding Interaction	Disability Support	Reasonable and necessary supports for eligible participants

How Do Government Subsidies Support Aged Care Funding?

Government subsidies cover the majority of home care and residential fees based on care level and means-tested assessments. These investments ensure equitable access to essential support and clinical services.
Subsidy mechanisms include:

• Base funding allocations per care package level
• Supplementary grants for specialised services (dementia, palliative)
• Priority-based top-up support for urgent cases

Such subsidies lower out-of-pocket expenses while maintaining fairness across the system, ensuring that individuals receive care aligned with their needs rather than their financial capacity.

What Are the Different Home Care Package Levels and Their Funding?

Home Care Packages are classified into four levels, each aligned to escalating care needs and corresponding funding caps. Package funds can be applied flexibly to services ranging from nursing visits to domestic assistance.
List of Home Care Package levels:

• Level 1 (Basic Support): Up to $10,000 annually
• Level 2 (Low-Level Care): Up to $18,000 annually
• Level 3 (Intermediate Care): Up to $40,000 annually
• Level 4 (High-Level Care): Up to $62,000 annually

These tiers ensure that older Australians receive the right intensity of support in their own homes, helping them maintain independence, safety, and wellbeing for as long as possible.

How Are Residential Aged Care Fees Structured: Basic, Means-Tested, and Accommodation Costs?

Residential aged care fees consist of a basic daily fee, a means-tested care fee (if applicable) and an accommodation payment tailored to room type. This blended structure balances fairness and flexibility.
Fee components:

• Basic Daily Fee: Set at 85 percent of the single Age Pension
• Means-Tested Care Fee: Additional contribution based on income/assets
• Accommodation Cost: Agreed as a refundable deposit or daily rental

Clear fee structures allow families to budget effectively and explore government loan or rental options.

How Does NDIS Funding Interact with Aged Care for People with Disabilities?

The NDIS provides individualised funding for people under 65 with permanent disabilities, complementing aged care support by covering reasonable and necessary disability-specific needs. Coordinating NDIS plans with aged care packages ensures that individuals receive holistic support without duplication of services.
Key interactions:

• NDIS covers aids, equipment and therapies not funded by aged care
• Care coordinators align package budgets to prevent service overlap
• Joint planning between NDIS planners and ACAT to optimise outcomes

This coordination expands service options for younger people who require both disability and aged care supports, ensuring continuity of assistance as needs evolve and, eventually, a smooth transition into the aged care system when they become ineligible for the NDIS.

Are There Tools to Estimate My Aged Care Fees and Costs?

Online fee-estimator calculators on My Aged Care and provider websites enable instant projections based on asset, income and care level inputs. These tools guide financial discussions and plan selection.
Using fee estimators involves:

• Entering income, assets and desired care type
• Reviewing projected daily and accommodation fees
• Adjusting inputs for varying package levels or room types

Accessible estimators demystify costs and empower informed decision-making for families.

How Is Support Provided for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Older Australians?

CALD support ensures that care practices respect cultural customs, dietary requirements and language needs, fostering trust and engagement among non-English speakers and multicultural communities. Tailored services improve communication and wellbeing.
Core CALD support features:

• Trained bilingual workers and interpreters
• Culturally appropriate dietary and activity options
• Indigenous-specific programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders
• Carer education resources in multiple languages

Such culturally attuned care removes barriers to access and enhances social connection for diverse older Australians.

What Culturally Appropriate Care Practices Are Available?

Culturally tailored care integrates traditional foods, celebrations, and cultural norms into daily routines. Providers collaborate with community organisations to design activities and align care approaches with individual backgrounds and preferences.
Practices include:

• Ethnic meal planning and cooking demonstrations
• Festive events marking cultural celebrations
• Use of culturally relevant music, art and storytelling

By honouring cultural identities, these practices strengthen emotional wellbeing, promote inclusivity, and foster stronger community ties within aged care services.

How Does Language Support Work, Including Translating and Interpreting Services?

Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) access ensures clear communication during assessments and care delivery. Providers employ bilingual staff or on-demand interpreting to bridge language gaps inside aged care services.
Language support methods:

• On-site or remote professional interpreters
• Multilingual care plans and written materials
• Staff training in basic community languages

Effective language assistance builds confidence, ensuring accurate assessments and personalised care.

What Programs Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Older Australians?

Indigenous-focused aged care programs combine culturally safe clinical services with community-led initiatives, emphasising connection to Country, elders’ councils and traditional healing practices.
Indigenous support elements:

• Elder-led social groups and cultural activities
• Care models integrating traditional healing and kinship networks
• Liaison officers coordinating with local Indigenous organisations

This approach empowers Indigenous elders to access care without sacrificing cultural heritage.

How Can Families and Caregivers from CALD Backgrounds Access Support?

Families can connect with CALD liaison officers, community advisory networks, and interpreting services through My Aged Care to coordinate assessments and services in their preferred languages.
Access steps:

• Request language assistance during registration
• Engage community resource centres for guidance
• Join culturally focused support groups for peer advice

These pathways ensure that CALD families receive clear information, culturally respectful guidance, and equal access to aged care services, helping them navigate the system with confidence.

What Disability Support Services Are Available Through NDIS for Older Australians?

While NDIS eligibility typically ends at age 65, younger people with lifelong disabilities can combine NDIS supports with aged care packages to maintain continuity. This synergy enhances independence through targeted therapies and equipment.
Primary NDIS services include:

• Personal care and community participation
• Assistive technology and home modifications
• Therapy services (physiotherapy, occupational therapy)
• Plan management and support coordination

By integrating NDIS and aged care funding, individuals access a wider array of services to support daily living and social engagement.

Who Is Eligible for NDIS and How Does It Support Seniors?

Eligibility for NDIS applies to Australians under 65 with permanent and significant disabilities. For those approaching 65, transition planning ensures ongoing support via My Aged Care while maximising existing NDIS plans.
Eligibility criteria:

• Age under 65 at application
• Permanent disability impacting daily activities
• Reasonable and necessary supports defined in a plan

This framework delivers customised assistance, reducing barriers to community engagement and in-home safety.

How Do NDIS Plans Complement My Aged Care Services?

NDIS plans cover equipment, therapies and support workers that aged care packages may not fund, such as specialised mobility aids or behaviour support. Joint planning prevents duplication and optimises resource allocation.
Complementary planning features:

• NDIS funds home modifications, aged care funds daily living support
• Shared case conferences between NDIS coordinators and ACAT assessors
• Coordinated budgets for allied health and personal care

This synergy enhances independence and promotes seamless transitions between support systems.

What Are the Steps to Access NDIS Disability Support?

Accessing NDIS involves an application, plan approval and regular plan reviews. Participants submit evidence of disability, receive an NDIS number and collaborate with planners to select funded supports.
Access steps:

• Complete NDIS access request form with supporting medical evidence
• Participate in planning meeting to define goals and supports
• Engage providers and monitor service delivery
• Schedule annual plan reviews to adjust funding

Following these steps secures tailored disability supports alongside aged care services.

How Can I Manage NDIS Plans and Funding Effectively?

Effective plan management ensures funds cover priority supports without overspending. Options include self-management, plan-management by registered providers or NDIA-managed plans.
Management options:

• Self-Managed: Direct control over invoices and providers
• Plan-Managed: Third-party agency handles payments and reporting
• NDIA-Managed: National Disability Insurance Agency processes claims

Choosing the right approach streamlines administration and maximises care delivery.

What Are the Upcoming Aged Care Reforms in 2025 and How Will They Affect Services?

The 2025 Support at Home program replaces existing funding streams with a unified budget for in-home and short-term care, aiming to simplify access, improve fairness and match resources to needs more precisely. Support at Home
Future reform highlights:

• Unified care budgets across Home Care Packages and Commonwealth Home Support Programme
• Streamlined eligibility assessments with earlier interventions
• Greater transparency in service pricing and provider performance

These changes promise smoother pathways and more personalised budget control for recipients.

What Is the New Support at Home Program and Its Impact?

The Support at Home program merges multiple funding streams into a single, flexible budget that adapts to evolving care needs. Participants choose
based on real-time assessments.
Program impact: impact

• Reduced administrative complexity
• Quicker approvals and service adjustments
• Consumer-controlled budgets for care variety

By consolidating funds, older Australians gain clearer oversight and responsive care options.

How Will Funding and Eligibility Change Under the Reforms?

Reforms introduce a single assessment tool and income-based subsidy tapering, ensuring funding aligns with individual circumstances and reduces gaps in support continuity.

Aged care reform – Key changes:

• Integrated assessment replacing separate ACAT and CHSP screenings
• Means testing applying consistently across support types
• Automatic funding adjustments as needs change

These updates streamline pathways and distribute resources more equitably.

What Should Consumers and Families Prepare for Ahead of 2025?

To prepare for the new system, families should gather recent assessments, review current care budgets, and discuss service preferences with providers. Early engagement ensures a smoother transition into the Support at Home program and continuous access to essential services.
Preparation steps:

• Request updated ACAT assessments before rollout
• Audit existing care plans and budgets
• Discuss preferred providers under the Support at Home framework
• Monitor government updates via My Aged Care and Cura.org.au

Proactive preparation ensures uninterrupted care and full advantage of reform benefits.
Older Australians and their carers can navigate aged care with confidence by understanding service types, eligibility pathways and funding frameworks. Cura.org.au offers expert guidance on personalised care plans, culturally sensitive support and NDIS coordination to simplify every step. Whether you need in-home assistance, residential placement or specialist therapies, informed planning and early engagement reduce stress and enhance quality of life. Contact Cura today to discuss your unique needs and secure tailored aged care solutions that support independence and wellbeing.

Older Australians and their families can confidently navigate the complexities of aged care by understanding service types, eligibility pathways, and funding frameworks. Cura Aged Care provides expert guidance on personalised care plans, culturally sensitive support, and NDIS coordination, ensuring a smoother journey towards securing the right assistance. By engaging early and planning effectively, you can enhance the quality of life for yourself or your loved ones. Contact Cura today to discuss your unique needs and explore tailored aged care solutions that promote independence and wellbeing.