How Does Aged Care Work in Australia?

As we get older, daily activities can become a bit tricky. Thankfully, Australians have access to a range of aged care services to help them live a healthy, happy, and independent life as they age.

But how does aged care work in Australia? Here’s a brief look at the ins-and-outs of the Australian aged care system, to make receiving valuable support that little bit easier.

Types of Aged Care

There are multiple types of aged care available in Australia. Here are a few of the most common:

Short-Term Aged Care

Short-term care provides temporary support for older people who need extra help for a limited time. It can be arranged after a hospital stay, during recovery, or to help you stay well at home while your needs are changing.

Under the Support at Home program, short-term care may include allied health or nursing services.

Residential Aged Care

Residential aged care is usually reserved for older adults with more complex care needs. It involves living full-time at a care facility, with support available 24/7. Residential care can be disruptive to hobbies and routines, so it is often considered a last choice—only delivered when other types of care aren’t appropriate.

In Home Aged Care

Home care is the most popular choice for aged care in Australia. With home care, a qualified care and support worker visits your home to provide any necessary assistance. You can choose from a range of flexible services that assist with areas of concern, but also complement your goals and lifestyle. These services usually include gardening/lawn mowing, domestic care, personal care, transport, social support, and more.

Government-Subsidised Care

I need aged care services, but I’m worried I may not be able to afford them.’ Fortunately, the Australian Government provides funding through the Support at Home program to help older people access the care and support they need to live safely and independently at home.

Support at Home funding is based on your individual circumstances and level of need, giving you greater flexibility and control over the supports you receive.

Through Support at Home, you can choose from a wide range of in-home services, including:

• Assistance with daily living and self-care

• Domestic support such as cleaning and laundry

• Transport for appointments or social outings

• Meal preparation and delivery

• Gardening and home maintenance

• Companionship and social connection

Assessments and eligibility are managed through My Aged Care, ensuring your care plan reflects your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

Simply Helping delivers trusted home aged care services under the Support at Home program, helping older Australians enjoy comfort, safety, and independence in familiar surroundings.

Eligibility

To be eligible for subsidised care, you must be an Australian citizen aged 65 or over. To find out more about eligibility, visit the My Aged Care website.

It’s worth noting that while the government funds a large share of your care under the Support at Home program, you may still be required to contribute towards certain services if your financial assessment shows you can afford to do so. The contribution amount depends on your pension status, income and assets. Clinical care services (such as home nursing) are covered in full, but for non-clinical services (including domestic assistance, transport, and social support) you may pay a percentage based on your means.

How to Access Aged Care in Australia

Are you ready to organise a bit of extra help? If you’d like to receive aged care services privately, or you’re not eligible for government-subsided care, contact an aged care service provider in your area directly. Discuss your needs with your chosen provider and you can begin your services promptly.

If you think you may be eligible for government-subsidised aged care, contact My Aged Care to arrange an assessment. An assessor will visit you at home to discuss your health, lifestyle, and support needs. They’ll work with you to identify the services that could best help you live safely and independently at home.

After your assessment, My Aged Care will determine your eligibility and assign a support level under the Support at Home program. Once approved, you can choose your preferred provider, such as Simply Helping, to deliver your home care and start organising your services.

Need help navigating the aged care system in Australia? Give our friendly team a call!

Here at Simply Helping, we offer a range of flexible in home aged care services for older Australians from all walks of life. Click here to learn more and contact us today!