FAQ: Where do I start?

If you’d like to learn about the different types of government-funded aged care services that exist, the help explorer is for you.

You can learn about services by:

• reading stories about people who have accessed aged care and the types of services that helped them
• viewing a service list which explains the types of services available and how they work.

Read more about what services are available

Yes, you can contact My Aged Care through the National Relay Service (NRS) in three easy steps:

1. Visit the National Relay Service website
2. Select your preferred NRS access point
3. Provide the My Aged Care number – 1800 200 422.

If you are deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing, you can also access up to 40 hours of free interpreting services each year through Auslan Connections.

To make a booking with Auslan Connections, call 07 3892 8552 or email interpreter.bookings@deafservices.org.au in advance.

Read more about accessibility support

Yes. There are a few ways to get the help you need. You can contact My Aged Care through Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 for the cost of a local call.

You can also access some information from the My Aged Care website in 22 languages.

Read more about accessible services

Yes, but we need to get your consent first. This involves registering the person as your representative. This process can be as simple as contacting My Aged Care together, the first time you call.

Read more about setting up a representative

No, there are more options. An aged care home is one of many services that can help you maintain a good quality of life as you get older. There are also services to help you live independently in your own home. The type of care available to you depends on your needs. 

Read more about types of care

Yes, there are. If you’re not eligible for services, you may be able to access support through a provider that isn’t government-funded. If you choose one of these providers you will need to pay the full cost of your care. Then, if your circumstances change in the future, you can be reassessed for support through My Aged Care.

Read more about non government-funded providers

Eligibility is based on factors like your health, how you’re managing at home, and any support you currently receive. You may be eligible for aged care services if you have:

• noticed a change in what you can do or remember
• been diagnosed with a medical condition or reduced mobility
• experienced a change in family care arrangements
• experienced a recent fall or hospital admission,

and are:

• 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people).

To know for sure if you are eligible, you will need to have an assessment.

Find out how to apply for an assessment

If you or a loved one is looking into aged care services, then My Aged Care is a great place to start. On this website you can see what services may be available to help you at home, or what to expect if you’re considering an aged care home. You can also find out if you’re eligible and how much it might cost.

Read more about where to start?

My Aged Care is your starting point to access government-funded aged care services. Whatever your situation, we can help you get the support you need:

1. You can find out what types of care are available. 
2. You can apply for an assessment and work out what services you are eligible for.
3. You can find service providers near you and understand the costs involved.
4. If you’re already receiving services, you can learn how to manage them.

Read more