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What is My Aged Care?

Writer's picture: My CompanionshipMy Companionship

As we age, finding the right support to maintain our health, independence, and quality of life becomes increasingly important. In Australia, My Aged Care serves as the primary gateway to accessing government-funded aged care services.


This guide will help you understand what My Aged Care is, how it operates, and how you can navigate the system to access the support you need.


An infographic titled “My Aged Care Services” using a tree metaphor with heart-shaped leaves. The branches show different types of aged care services: CHSP (Commonwealth Home Support Program), HCP (Home Care Packages), Respite Care, and Residential Care. The text emphasizes that all your needs can be met under one roof, with a contact number provided.

What is My Aged Care?


My Aged Care is a free government service designed to simplify the process of finding information and accessing government-funded aged care services in Australia.


My Aged Care website is your starting point for registration and assessment to determine eligibility for various aged care subsidies, including Residential Aged Care Homes and Home Care Packages.


What are My Aged Care Services?

1. Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)

Low-level support to help you live independently at home.

  • Services: Cleaning, meal prep, transport, home modifications.

  • Best For: Those needing occasional assistance.


2. Home Care Packages (HCP)

Tailored, ongoing support for higher care needs.

  • Services: Personal care, nursing, meal prep, home modifications.

  • Levels: Basic (Level 1) to high care (Level 4).

  • Best For: Individuals requiring regular, customized care.


3. Residential Aged Care Facility (RACF)

Full-time care for those unable to live at home.

  • Services: 24/7 nursing, meals, personal care, social activities.

  • Best For: People with complex, high-level care needs.


An infographic titled “My Aged Care Services” using a tree metaphor with heart-shaped leaves. The branches show different types of aged care services: CHSP (Commonwealth Home Support Program), HCP (Home Care Packages), and RACF (Residential Aged Care Facility). Each branch provides detailed information about the type of care offered, who it is best for, and the level of care provided (low, medium, or high).

My Aged Care Home Care Packages are often considered one of the best options among the top three choices. These packages provide access to greater funds and services, all while allowing you to continue living comfortably at home.


When applying for a Home Care Package, there are four distinct levels to choose from. Each level offers varying funding amounts to meet different care needs. Refer to the image below for a detailed breakdown:


An infographic titled "Home Care Packages: Levels of Support" showing a pyramid with four levels. Each level lists the annual subsidy and services included, such as basic cleaning, meal preparation, personal care, and nursing support. The levels progress from Level 1 (Basic Care Needs) to Level 4 (High-Level Care Needs) with increasing subsidy and complexity of care.


Getting Started with My Aged Care


Before you can access any aged care services in Australia, you must register with My Aged Care. The process can be a bit complex, so we’ve put together this guide to help you understand the registration and assessment steps.


My Aged Care Registration


To register with My Aged Care, you need to call their contact centre at 1800 200 422 or visit their website. During registration, you will answer a range of questions to help determine your individual needs and current situation.


My Aged Care Assessment

After registration, you may be referred for an assessment. My Aged Care will organize an assessment with an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) member, who will visit your home to evaluate your needs and determine the level of support required.


Eligibility for My Aged Care


To be eligible for government-funded aged care services, you must be:

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

Meeting the age criteria allows you to register and be assessed through My Aged Care, although this does not guarantee approval for government funding.


Using the My Aged Care Portal


If you have a MyGov account, you can access the My Aged Care portal using your MyGov login details. The portal allows you to:

View and update your personal information

Access your client record

Track your assessment status

Review your support plan and service information


My Aged Care fee estimator

The My Aged Care Fee Estimator helps you estimate potential costs for aged care services, including:

  • Home Care Packages

  • Residential Aged Care

  • Short-Term Care (e.g., respite)


How It Works

Input your income, assets, and homeowner status to receive an estimate of:

  • Daily care fees

  • Means-tested contributions

  • Accommodation costs (if applicable)


Why Use It?

It’s a simple way to plan and budget for aged care, offering clarity on potential costs before a formal assessment.


Get Started

Visit the My Aged Care Fee Estimator and try it yourself today! For extra support, reach out to us at My Companionship—we’re here to guide you through every step.


Conclusion

Navigating the aged care system in Australia can be challenging, but My Aged Care is designed to make the process easier. By understanding how My Aged Care works and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can access the support you need to maintain your independence and quality of life. For more detailed information, visit the My Aged Care website or contact their helpline.

For additional resources and step-by-step guides, explore the articles linked throughout this guide.


frequently asked questions (FAQs) about My Aged Care


1. What is My Aged Care?

My Aged Care is the starting point to access Australian Government funded aged care services. It provides information on the types of aged care services available, assesses eligibility, and helps you find local service providers.


2. How do I apply for aged care services?

You can apply by calling My Aged Care Number at 1800 200 422, having a health professional make a referral on your behalf, or applying online. An assessment will be arranged to determine your needs and eligibility.


3. What is an ACAT Assessment?

An ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) assessment evaluates your care needs to determine eligibility for government-subsidized aged care services, like Home Care Packages, respite care, or aged care homes. Conducted by healthcare professionals, it helps match you with the right support. Contact My Aged Care to arrange an assessment.


4. What services are available to help me stay at home?

Services include assistance with daily tasks, personal care, nursing, allied health support, and social activities. These are provided through programs like the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP).


5. How much will aged care services cost me?

Costs vary based on the services you receive and your financial situation. Some services require a co-contribution. The My Aged Care Fee Estimator can provide an estimate of potential costs.


6. What is an aged care home, and what services do they provide?

Aged care homes provide accommodation and care for those who can no longer live independently. Services include personal care, nursing, meals, cleaning, and social activities.


7. How can I arrange respite care?

Respite care provides temporary relief for carers. To access respite care, you need to apply for an assessment through My Aged Care to determine your eligibility.


8. How do I find and choose a service provider?

You can use the Find a Provider tool on the My Aged Care website to search for and compare service providers in your area based on your needs and preferences.


9. Can someone speak to My Aged Care on my behalf?

Yes, you can nominate a representative to speak and act on your behalf. This can be arranged by contacting My Aged Care and providing the necessary consent.


10. How can I access my information online?

After registering with My Aged Care, you can set up an Online Account through myGov to view and manage your aged care information.






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