Aged care planning

Before a plan can be prepared or any decisions can be made, the health of the person requiring care must be assessed to determine their eligibility for care. The assessment can be performed by a doctor, nurse or social worker who is a member of an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT, or ACAS in Victoria).

Once a health assessment has been completed and deemed eligible for care, you will then need to search for a home to suit your needs. It is recommended that you visit a few facilities to assess what’s best for you or your family member.

When you have been accepted into your chosen age care facility, you will be required to pay an accommodation contribution or accommodation payment. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will advise if the Government will contribute to this payment and how much based on your asset and income assessment.

In addition, there will be a basic daily fee payable to the aged care facility. This may be determined by your level of income and assets, as some facilities can offer a greater level of service or standard of accommodation for an additional daily fee.