One of the most common questions people ask when they are starting to look into aged care options is: “How can I receive government-subsidised aged care services?”
Eligibility for government-subsidised aged care services is based on your age, needs and situation. An aged care assessment will determine if you are eligible for services and – if you are – which program you’re eligible for.
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Who qualifies for an assessment?
To qualify for an aged care assessment, you must meet some needs and age requirements. These check:
- how much help you need with some everyday tasks
- that you have care needs and are either:
- aged 65 years or older
- an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person aged 50 or older, or
- homeless or at risk of homelessness and aged 50 or older.
Should I apply?
Our online tool lets you check if you meet the requirements for an assessment before applying for one. Answer some questions in the tool to work out your next steps.
What if I meet the requirements?
If you meet the requirements in the tool, you can request an assessment using our online assessment application form. Be ready with your Medicare card and general information about yourself and other people who might be involved in your care. Make sure you have 15 to 20 minutes to do this. If you want to register someone as a supporter, it’s preferable to have them in the room with you when you make the application.
If you don’t meet the requirements, the tool will let you know what your options are.
How does an assessment work?
After you submit your application for an assessment, an assessment organisation will call you within 2 to 6 weeks. On the call, they will confirm your needs and, if you are eligible, they will arrange a time to visit you at home (or your current residence) to carry out the assessment.
During the face-to-face assessment, the assessor will talk to you about your circumstances and needs and work with you to identify what services might suit you best.
Learn more about aged care assessments.
I need aged care services urgently
If your circumstances suddenly change and you need immediate help, there are support options available – even if you haven’t had an assessment yet.
- For urgent medical care, call your doctor or emergency services on 000.
- For emergency respite care, you or your carer should contact Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737.
- For ongoing care (longer than respite can provide), call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to arrange an assessment.
Learn more about what to do when you need help urgently.