ACAT Assessment: Complete Guide to Aged Care Services in Australia

As the demand for aged care services in Australia continues to grow, understanding the ACAT assessment process is crucial for anyone seeking government-subsidised support.

Whether you are considering aged care for yourself or a loved one, this guide provides an in-depth look into what an ACAT assessment is, why it is necessary, who can apply, and what to expect during the process.

1. What is an ACAT Assessment?

Navigating aged care services in Australia starts with an ACAT assessment, a vital step for anyone needing government-funded support. ACAT stands for Aged Care Assessment Team, a crucial component of the Australian aged care system. These assessments, coordinated by the government organisation My Aged Care, are designed to evaluate the care needs of individuals and determine their eligibility for government-subsidised aged care services. In Victoria, this is referred to as ACAS, or Aged Care Assessment Service.

1.1 Why Do You Need an ACAT Assessment?

An ACAT assessment is the first step in accessing various government-funded aged care services. It helps determine eligibility and allocate funding for:

• Residential aged care placements

• Home care packages across four levels

• Respite and transitional care, both residential and home-based

Additionally, government-funded home care services can be accessed via the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), which has a separate assessment process.

In some situations, the need for aged care arises suddenly or under pressing circumstances. An urgent ACAT assessment may be necessary if:

• A sudden decline in health occurs

• A hospital discharge requires immediate care

• A caregiver is no longer available

• Safety concerns arise at home

  
  

Failing to act quickly in these cases can result in significant consequences. Delaying the ACAT assessment process can lead to:

• Unsafe living conditions

• Delayed hospital discharge

• Higher out-of-pocket care costs

• Longer wait times for home care packages

Being proactive about the assessment process ensures timely access to the right care and minimises disruptions to health and well-being.

1.2 Who Can Apply for an ACAT Assessment?

Eligibility for ACAT assessments is open to Australians aged 65 years and older, or 50 years and older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. My Aged Care provides an eligibility checker on its website to help you quickly determine if you meet the requirements before applying.

1.3 How to Organise an ACAT Assessment

You can initiate the ACAT assessment process through several methods:

• Online application: Visit the My Aged Care website.

• Phone call: Contact My Aged Care at 1800 200 422.

• Referral: A doctor or other healthcare professional can refer you.

1.4 What Happens During an ACAT Assessment?

An ACAT assessment involves a comprehensive evaluation of your care needs. Typically, a member of the Aged Care Assessment Team, such as a nurse, social worker, or healthcare professional, will visit you at home to conduct the assessment. Here's what to expect:

• Interview: The assessor will discuss your physical and mental health, daily activities, and what aged care services might benefit you.

• Physical Examination: This may include checking your mobility, daily living activities, and any existing medical conditions.

• Duration: The assessment usually lasts between 1 to 3 hours, depending on your needs. It's designed to be a friendly conversation, with no forms for you to fill out. You can also have a trusted friend or family member present.

2. Cost and Accessibility of ACAT Assessments

One of the most reassuring parts of the process is that the ACAT assessment is fully government-funded. This means:

• There is no cost to you or your family.

• You don’t need private insurance to qualify.

• It is accessible to all eligible Australians regardless of income.

After the assessment, approved services are also often subsidised or co-funded through programs like the Home Care Package or CHSP.

2.1 How Long Does it Take to Get an ACAT Assessment?

The ACAT assessment process consists of several steps:

1. Application: The wait time between your application and the assessment interview typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks.

2. Assessment: The actual assessment takes 1 to 3 hours.

3. Approval: Approval can take several weeks to several months.

4. Allocation: Once funds are allocated, you can choose an aged care facility or home care provider, which can take 3 to 12 months, depending on your location and care level required.

2.2 Standard Timeline vs. Urgent Timeline

The ACAT assessment process can vary depending on how urgently care is needed. In standard cases, it typically takes 2 to 6 weeks from application to the initial contact, followed by a 1–3 hour assessment. Approval can take another 2 to 8 weeks, and receiving services may take 3 to 12 months. However, in urgent situations—such as sudden health decline or hospital discharge—the process can be fast-tracked, with assessments scheduled within 24 to 72 hours and approvals granted in as little as 2 weeks. Acting quickly ensures timely access to essential care and support.

Stage	Standard Time	Urgent Cases
Application to Contact	2–6 weeks	24–72 hours
Assessment Visit	1–3 hours	Same day/next day
Approval	2–8 weeks	Up to 2 weeks
Service Allocation	3–12 months	Varies by region

2.3 Understanding the Levels of ACAT Assessment

Once the assessment is completed, you’ll be matched to a level of care that best reflects your needs. The four levels are:

Level	Description	Example of Support
Level 1	Basic care needs	Cleaning, grocery shopping
Level 2	Low-level care	Personal care, minor home modifications
Level 3	Intermediate care	Assistance with mobility and medications
Level 4	High-level care	Complex needs, 24/7 care, dementia support

These levels help determine what type of Home Care Package you’ll be eligible for and what services you'll receive.

Frequently Asked Questions about ACAT Assessments

Does My ACAT Assessment Expire? 

Permanent residential care and Home Care Package approvals do not expire unless they were granted for a specific period. If your health or care needs change, a reassessment might be necessary.

Can I Have an ACAT Assessment in a Hospital? 

Yes, a social worker at your hospital can organise an ACAT assessment if you need one for residential aged care or home care.

What If I'm Unsatisfied with My ACAT Assessment Results? 

If you’re not satisfied, contact your assessor or My Aged Care to discuss your concerns. You can appeal the decision, and the assessment can be reviewed by the Secretary of the Australian Department of Health. If you still disagree, you can escalate the matter to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

What If I Urgently Need Care Without an ACAT Assessment? 

In urgent cases, the ACAT assessment process can be fast-tracked. Contact My Aged Care at 1800 200 422 to explore this option. While immediate care can be accessed without an ACAT assessment, it may incur higher costs without government funding support.

Conclusion

The ACAT assessment process is a vital step in ensuring that elderly individuals receive the appropriate level of care and support. By understanding each step of the process, you can navigate it more effectively and ensure that you or your loved one receives the necessary care. Whether you are applying for residential aged care, home care packages, or respite care, an ACAT assessment is designed to evaluate your needs comprehensively and connect you with the appropriate government-subsidised services.

For more information, you can contact My Companionship.

To learn more about what My Aged Care is, read our blog 'My Aged Care - What is it?'

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