Questions about aged care assessments
How do I apply for aged care services?
You have a few options. You can either call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to talk about your needs and see if you are eligible, or you can apply online.
If you are eligible, you’ll be referred for an assessment in your home. The assessor will contact you within two to six weeks to arrange your assessment.
* Please note that during the COVID-19 pandemic, most aged care assessments are being undertaken over the phone or by video.
What happens when I apply for an assessment?
During the application, whether you call or apply online, you will be asked about your current situation and the help you require. You’ll also need to provide details about yourself (you’ll need your Medicare card for this step).
The process should take around 15-20 minutes.
If eligible, you will be referred for an assessment. An assessment organisation will then be in contact to arrange an appointment time.
* Please note that during the COVID-19 pandemic, most aged care assessments are being undertaken over the phone or by video.
What is a RAS? What is an ACAT? What’s the difference?
Both organisations carry out the assessments when you are looking for aged care services.
If you only require low-level support to stay independent at home, a Regional Assessment Service (RAS)assessor will visit. They will determine if you’re eligible for Commonwealth Home Support Programme services.
If it sounds like you need regular, more complex support, an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessor will provide a more comprehensive assessment. They will assist you to apply for aged care and determine if you require a Home Care Package, short-term care or an aged care home.
* Please note that during the COVID-19 pandemic, most aged care assessments are being undertaken over the phone or by video.
What happens in an assessment?
The assessor will visit you at home to talk with you about your situation, health, lifestyle, and how you’re going with completing daily tasks around the home. This will help them to recommend the right services for your needs.
The assessor may discuss service providers in your area who could help you and send a referral directly to the provider of your choice. Assessors can also provide you with information relating to potential cost of aged care services including where to access the information you need. It’s also your chance to ask any questions. For example, you could raise any concerns you have related to receiving services including cultural considerations.
You can also have a family member or friend present during your assessment.
* Please note that during the COVID-19 pandemic, most aged care assessments are being undertaken over the phone or by video.
What do I need to have ready for an assessment?
You should ensure that you have:
- ID proof – your Medicare card, and one other form of ID
- medical and care information – referrals, contact details, and support information
- any support people you may need present, such as a family member, a trusted friend, or a translator
- any questions or information you want to discuss about the care you may receive.
* Please note that during the COVID-19 pandemic, most aged care assessments are being undertaken over the phone or by video.
Does an assessment cost me anything?
No. The assessment is free of charge.
* Please note that during the COVID-19 pandemic, most aged care assessments are being undertaken over the phone or by video.
How long does it take to find out if I’m eligible for services?
For Commonwealth Home Support Programme services, you will usually find out if you’re eligible at your assessment.
For Home Care Packages, short-term care options, and/or aged care homes, your assessor will need some time to review the information collected at your assessment. Then they will make a recommendation to their decision-maker who will decide on the outcome. You or your representative will receive a letter to let you know if you’re eligible for services. This is usually sent within two to six weeks after your assessment.
What happens once I’m assessed as eligible for services?
If eligible, your assessor can help you to find services in your area and connect with service providers. For entry-level services, they can refer you directly to local providers so you can discuss your care needs and arrange services. Alternatively, they can provide you with a referral code and you can choose to find services yourself. Our Find a provider tool can help you look for services in your area.
If you need any support after your assessment, call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.
Will the services I want be available?
Whether – and when – you can access a service will depend on the availability of service providers in your area. In the case of Home Care Packages, it also depends on the national wait time for your package. You can call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 for advice on Home Care Package wait times, and for help with finding available providers.
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. 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.
* Please note that during the COVID-19 pandemic, most aged care assessments are being undertaken over the phone or by video.
I’m a health / aged care professional. How can I make a referral?
You can use the Make a referral tool on this website to request an assessment for a patient or client. Or, if you are a GP in a participating clinic, you may be able to make a referral directly from your practice management system.