What is the difference between government-funded services and those that don’t receive government funding?
Non government-funded services are not subsidised or regulated by the Australian Government. You will have to pay the full cost to access these services, whatever your care needs or financial situation.
Government-funded aged care services are regulated by the Australian Government, and the cost of these services is subsidised to make the help you need more affordable. To find out if you are eligible for these services, you will need an assessment.
What do non government-funded services include?
Services in your home
There is a range of private services available to help you in your home, if needed. These include gardening, cleaning, transport, and health and therapy services. These are not regulated by the Australian Government.
Aged care homes
Aged care homes that don't receive government funding are similar to government-funded aged care homes. They provide accommodation and care services, but they are not regulated or subsidised by the Australian Government.
Retirement villages or independent living units are not aged care facilities. They offer a range of services for older people who need less care than offered by aged care homes. They are not regulated or subsidised by the Australian Government, but they are regulated by state and territory governments.
How can I find non government-funded aged care services?
The following external websites may help you to find services that don't receive government funding. Your assessor may also help you.
Please note: These links to external websites are provided to help you find more information. These websites do not necessarily reflect:
- the views of the Department of Health and Aged Care or those of the Australian Government
- our commitment to a particular course of action.
The department is careful in selecting the linked websites, but is not responsible for and does not necessarily endorse the website or any information, products or services offered on the website. You need to make your own decisions about the accuracy, currency, and reliability of information on linked websites.
National Health Services Directory
The National Health Services Directory (NHSD) is a joint initiative of all Australian governments. It’s delivered by Healthdirect Australia. It provides information about health and related services. You can use it to search for health services such as podiatry or physiotherapy.
Find out more on the NHSD website.
Other websites
Mable can be used to search and connect with individual home care and support workers in your area. Some approved home care providers also allow you to access your Home Care Package care and services using the Mable online platform.
Find out more on the Mable website.
Like Family
Like Family can be used to search and connect with individual workers in your area who can provide support such as companionship, grocery shopping and transport. Some approved home care providers also allow you to access your Home Care Package care and services using Like Family.
Find out more on the Like Family website.
Aged Care Guide
Aged Care Guide can be used to search for home care services and aged care homes.
Find out more on the Aged Care Guide website.
Aged Care Online
Aged Care Online can be used to search for home care services.
Find out more on the Aged Care Online website.
Senior Services Guide
Senior Services Guide can be used to search for home care and community services as well as other activities available in your area.
Find out more on the Senior Services Guide website.
