Types of Aged Care

Understanding the different types of aged care available is crucial for planning your future or supporting a loved one. An Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessment determines eligibility for government-subsidised services and helps identify the most appropriate care level for individual needs.

Care Options Available

Staying in Your Own Home

Current Options (Until November 2025):

  • Home Care Packages provide comprehensive support, including personal care, clinical services, and household assistance to help people remain independent at home
  • Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) offers basic support services, with care needs assessed through Regional Assessment Services (RAS)

Important Changes Coming: From 1 November 2025, the new Support at Home program will replace Home Care Packages and the Short-Term Restorative Care Programme. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme will transition no earlier than 1 July 2027.

If you already have a Home Care Package, you will automatically transition to Support at Home on 1 November 2025 without needing reassessment unless your care needs change.

Retirement Villages

Retirement villages offer a community-focused lifestyle for people over 55 who want to maintain their independence while having access to additional services. These communities typically provide:

  • Self-contained accommodation designed for independent living
  • Optional services such as meals, cleaning, and personal care (for additional fees)
  • Social activities and community facilities
  • The ability to receive home care services within the village setting

Residents can access government-funded care services, including the current Home Care Packages or CHSP, delivered directly to their retirement village accommodation.

Residential Aged Care

Residential aged care facilities provide 24-hour care and accommodation for people who can no longer live safely at home, even with support services. These purpose-built facilities offer:

Core Services Included:

  • 24-hour staffing and supervision
  • All meals and snacks
  • Basic furnished accommodation
  • Cleaning and laundry services
  • Bedding and linen
  • Building and grounds maintenance

Additional Services Available:

  • Personal care services like hairdressing and podiatry (often at extra cost)
  • Enhanced accommodation options with higher standard rooms and facilities
  • Specialised care for conditions such as dementia

Some facilities may charge an 'extra services fee' for providing premium accommodation, meals, or additional services beyond the basic care requirements.

Important Considerations

Assessment Process: Government-funded aged care services are provided to older people (all people aged 65 years and over and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50–64 years) who have been assessed as eligible for subsidised care through an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) application process.

Planning Ahead: Due to waiting times for some services, particularly home care packages, it's advisable to apply for assessment early and understand the full range of costs associated with your preferred care options.

Changing Landscape: The new Aged Care Act 2024 starts from 1 November 2025 and will put the rights of older people at the centre of the aged care system, bringing significant improvements to how aged care services are delivered across Australia.

Understanding these options and planning ahead ensures you can make informed decisions about the care that best suits your needs and circumstances.

To speak to our team about your Age Care needs, click here