If you’re eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Program, the next step is to find and connect with aged care providers.
On this page, we cover the key steps involved in searching for and connecting with the right provider for your needs:
Before connecting with providers...
Make sure you have taken these steps first:
Find providers near you
There are a few ways to find service providers:
- Ask your assessor to refer you to a provider. If you choose this option, the assessor will refer you to a local provider, who will then contact you directly.
- Use the Find a provider tool to search for local providers yourself. If you choose this option, your assessor will give you a referral code for each service you’re eligible for. You then give this referral code to your chosen provider and they will take it forward from there.
- Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 for guidance.
Create a shortlist
Every provider is different. It’s good to compare what is available to determine the best match for you.
One of the easiest ways to create a shortlist is by using the Find a provider tool on this website. You can use the filters in the tool to help you find services that best match your needs, starting with your location and the services you’re eligible for.
Some providers offer specialised services. You can look for providers who cater for specific health conditions, communities, cultures, faiths, and languages. This can be included in your search. Select the services you want when you go to search, and this will help give you a more tailored list.
Make contact with service providers
There are a few key topics you can talk about with service providers that can help you narrow down your options.
Availability
Check if the provider you want can start services when you’d like them to start. Not every provider will be available. Some have waitlists you can join. People with the highest level of need are offered services first. You can also see availability by searching for providers using the Find a provider tool.
Costs
Ask them about how much your contribution will be, how often you will pay for the service and what happens if you take a break. Remember you can negotiate the cost with your preferred provider.
Operating hours
Ask for the provider’s hours of operation to make sure that they can help when you need them.
Diverse needs
Asking questions is very important when you have diverse needs. These might be cultural and linguistic, or they might be due to a physical or mental condition. Knowing that a provider has the experience and skills to tailor their services to your individual needs will ensure you find the right people to help you.
Multiple services
Some providers specialise in a single service like transport. Others offer more than one service. If you have multiple service referral codes, check if one organisation can provide all your services.
Quality
It's important you talk with the provider that will be delivering your services and feel comfortable with them. They should provide you with quality services and respect your rights.
Develop your care plan
After you’re comfortable with a provider and decide to accept their services, you will develop a care plan together. The care plan includes costs, the schedule of services and when they start. Some providers may give you a document to sign while others will accept your verbal agreement of the care plan.