Question 1

What does an ACAT assessment actually do?

Accepted Answer

Think of it as the key that unlocks government-funded support. It’s not a test — it’s a conversation with a health professional to see what help would make life easiest. After the , they can approve you for: Support at Home (a flexible budget to assist with cleaning, meals, nursing or equipment) Short-term care (like to give a carer a break, or support after a hospital stay) Moving into an aged care home (if living at home is no longer possible) The assessor’s job is to help you get the right support, not to judge you.

Question 2

What are the steps to get My Aged Care help?

Accepted Answer

Start by talking to your GP, then call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or apply online. You will be assessed, approved for services, and then choose providers to begin support. You can see the full pathway here .

Question 3

What services are included under “Support at Home”?

Accepted Answer

The new Support at Home program provides a flexible budget for services like: Help with cleaning, meals and shopping Personal care (showering, dressing) Nursing and allied health at home Equipment and home modifications Respite and carer breaks You can learn more about the new program here .

Question 4

How do I find out if I’m eligible for aged care services?

Accepted Answer

Eligibility is mainly based on your age (usually 65+ or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples) and how much help you need with daily tasks. You can: Check your likely eligibility online at the My Aged Care website Or call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 for a quick screening call. If you seem to be eligible, they’ll arrange for a home assessment.

Question 5

What happens after my assessment is approved?

Accepted Answer

You’ll receive a letter explaining which services you’re approved for and your priority level. When funding becomes available, you can choose a provider and start support. See more at myagedcare.gov.au/assessment or our guide on what happens while you wait .

Question 6

Can I choose or change my aged care provider?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You have the right to choose who delivers your care. You can compare providers on the official Find a Provider tool and change if you’re not satisfied.

Question 7

What if I need someone to help me speak up or navigate the system?

Accepted Answer

You have the right to support. There are two main free services: Advocacy: If you feel you're not being heard, an advocate can help you speak up and understand your rights. The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) provides free, independent support. Call them on 1800 700 600 . Care Finders: If you are vulnerable and don't have a support person, a Care Finder can help you understand and access aged care. My Aged Care can connect you to one. These services are there to make sure everyone gets fair access to care. Find more at the official My Aged Care advocacy page .

Question 8

Where can carers get extra help or respite?

Accepted Answer

Carers can get support, including respite breaks, through My Aged Care or the national Carer Gateway by calling 1800 422 737 . For 24/7 emotional support, visit Helplines.com.au .

Question 9

How much does aged care cost in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Costs depend on your income, assets, and the level of support you need. For residential care, there are three main parts: a basic daily fee, a means-tested care fee, and accommodation costs. We have a simple guide to costs here , or you can use the official Fee Estimator on the My Aged Care website.

Question 10

What is the Support at Home program?

Accepted Answer

The Support at Home program is a government-funded budget to help you live at home for longer. We have a simple guide that explains what it can pay for and how to apply. You can read our Support at Home guide here .

Question 11

What if I’m not happy with the care?

Accepted Answer

You have the right to safe, high-quality care. This is protected by the Charter of Aged Care Rights . If you have concerns, first try talking to your provider. If that doesn’t work, you can get help from an advocate or make a complaint to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission .

Question 12

What if I’m a veteran (DVA client)?

Accepted Answer

If you are a veteran, your first point of contact should usually be the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA). They can arrange assessments and coordinate services, though many services are accessed via My Aged Care. Call DVA on 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) or visit the DVA website .

❓ Frequently Asked Questions