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  1. Apply for an assessment

How to apply for an assessment

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The first step to access government-funded aged care services is to get assessed. You can apply for an assessment online or call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. 

The online application is quick and easy using your Medicare card. If you do not have a Medicare card, or would prefer to speak to someone, you can call us to complete the application over the phone. If you need assistance calling us, please visit our Contact us page to see the different types of support available.

If you would prefer to apply in person, you can make an appointment to see an Aged Care Specialist Officer (ACSO) at a number of Services Australia locations. To book an appointment with an ACSO, call the Services Australia Aged Care line on 1800 227 475. They are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm. 

All our staff are trained to talk to people in a range of situations and are ready to answer your questions to help find the best options for you. 

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Ready to apply for an assessment?

Apply online now

What do I need to apply?

To apply online, you just need your Medicare card. The application takes at least 10 minutes, so make sure you have a little time to spare.

If you do not have a Medicare card you can apply by calling My Aged Care or by making an appointment with an ACSO.

What will you ask me?

The first step is an eligibility check. Our priority is getting you the help you need. To do this, we’ll ask about:

  • your health
  • how you’re managing at home
  • any support you’re currently receiving.

Your answers will help us understand your needs and whether you are eligible for an assessment.

If you are eligible, we will ask you for a few details to complete your application.

My Aged Care will keep a record of your application, so you won’t have to provide the same information again at your assessment.

Who can support me?

A family member, friend, or carer can support you to apply online or over the phone. With your permission, they can also complete the application or talk on your behalf.

If you want someone to speak and act on your behalf on an ongoing basis, you can appoint them as your representative with My Aged Care. This will allow My Aged Care to talk to them about your aged care. If you want, this can be set up at the same time as you apply for an assessment.

Read our Arranging someone to support you page for more information.

Advocacy services 

You can also get help from an advocate through the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN). With your consent, an advocate can also speak to My Aged Care on your behalf. 

Read our Advocacy page for more information.

Communication services

If you need help contacting us, there are services and supports that can help. 

The National Relay Service is available if you have a hearing or speech impairment.

If you are deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing, you can also access My Aged Care with a sign language interpreter via Deaf Connect.

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) is available if you need help or want to communicate in a language other than English.

Read our Accessible for all page for more information.

Applying for an assessment quote from Dan, 61, Brisbane The screens were nice and bright, and everything was there that I needed. I was able to do it online on my phone and the process was nice and easy as mum was there to answer all the questions with me.

It’s not as daunting as you think it is. Doing it on my phone was a lot easier than ringing up.
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Name and age:
Dan, 61, Brisbane
man and elderly woman reading on tablet

What happens after I apply?

If your application is successful, an assessor will contact you to arrange an assessment. An assessment can determine exactly what you need and can even let you know about services you may not have thought about.

You will also receive a My Aged Care welcome pack in the mail containing helpful information and outlining what your next steps will be.

You can track your application by logging into your Online Account.

If you have immediate needs, My Aged Care may refer you directly to services before your assessment takes place.

Find out more about preparing for an assessment and what happens after your assessment.

What else do people ask at this step?

I just want one specific service. Do I need to have an assessment?

If you would like to access government-funded services, you do need an assessment. Depending on your income, the costs of the services approved by the assessor are subsidised to make the help you need more affordable.

If you don’t want to take part in an assessment, you may prefer to use an aged care provider that isn't government-funded. You will need to pay the full cost of your care for these services.

If you need urgent assistance for aged care support, call My Aged Care 1800 200 422 to discuss your specific situation. Some essential aged care services are permitted on a strictly short-term basis before an assessment or without an assessment. 

Read more about how to apply for an assessment

What will aged care cost me?

The cost of aged care services varies from person to person. It depends on the care you are eligible for, the aged care provider you choose, and your financial situation. 

While the Australian Government may contribute to the cost of your care, you will also be asked to contribute if you can afford to.

Read more about aged care costs
See more FAQs
In this section
Apply for an assessment
Prepare for your assessment
What happens after assessment
When to get reassessed
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Saturday 10am - 2pm

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