Short-term care provides care and support services for a set period of time. There are different types of short-term care depending on your needs, but all aim to help you with day-to-day tasks and either restore or maintain your independence.
Depending on the type of short-term care you access, help can be provided for a few days to a few months at a time.
What services are available through short-term care?
There are three types of short-term care. If you want to receive any type of short-term care, you must have an assessment to determine your eligibility. The services you are assessed for will be based on your situation and your needs.
How do I get assessed for these services?
You must meet certain requirements to be eligible for an aged care assessment.
Answer a few simple questions in our eligibility checker tool. If you meet the requirements, you can apply for an assessment straight away.
If your application is successful, you will be referred for an assessment. An assessor will arrange to meet you in person, usually at your own home.
How much will it cost me?
The Australian Government subsidises short-term care providers directly to make care more affordable. You are expected to contribute to the cost of your care if you can afford to do so. How much you may pay varies depending on the type and level of care and services you will receive.
The maximum amount you could be asked to pay is:
- $13.08 per day, if you receive care while living at home (17.5% of the single aged pension).
- $63.57 per day, if you receive care while living in a residential setting (85% of the single aged pension).
Read our Short-term care costs page for detailed information on the costs involved for the different types of short-term care.