Navigating Home Care Packages

Aged Care - Where do I start?

Navigating the whole process can be daunting. 

There are many different providers and specialty supports, making it difficult to know exactly who to use. Whether to go self-managed or plan-managed can be a challenge, and unless you are in the industry, you may feel alone and overwhelmed.

If you are ever in doubt visit the myagedcare website or call 1800 200 422 - https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/

Here are some helpful tips for starting the Support At Home Package Process -

Pre-Assessment Checklist for Support At Home

1. Personal Information

• Medicare card

• A form of identification (e.g., driver's license, passport)

• Contact details (phone, email, residential address)

2. Health & Medical Information

• List of current medical conditions or diagnoses

• Details of recent hospitalisations or treatments

• Contact details for GP or other healthcare providers

• List of current medications

3. Living Situation

• Current living arrangements (alone, with family, etc.)

• Details about home setup (e.g., stairs, bathroom accessibility)

• Any current help received at home (formal or informal support)

4. Daily Living Needs

• Areas where help is required (e.g., showering, cooking, shopping, transport)

• Any mobility aids used (e.g., walker, wheelchair)

• Personal goals for independence or support

5. Financial Information (for Income Assessment)

• Pension or Centrelink details

• Tax file number

• Bank account details (for means testing, if applicable)

• Recent payslips or financial statements (for self-funded retirees)

6. Support Network

• Emergency contact details

• Details of any carers (including informal carers or family members)

• Power of attorney or guardian (if applicable)

7. Previous or Existing Services

• Information on services already accessed (e.g., CHSP, private support)

• Previous assessment outcomes (if known)

• Any past ACAT/ACAS assessments or letters from My Aged Care

8. Technology Readiness (if applicable)

• Email account and access

• MyGov account linked to Medicare (optional but helpful)

My aged care - What next, how to apply?

You may be eligible if you’re 65+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and need support to live independently at home.

Contact My Aged Care

Phone: 1800 200 422 (free call, Monday–Friday 8am–8pm, Saturday 10am–2pm)

Website:www.myagedcare.gov.au

Register Your Details and details of the type of assistance you require day to day. 

An Assessment will then be performed to determine the level of support you require. Below are the types of assessments that you may need:

• RAS (Regional Assessment Service): For entry-level support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme.

• ACAT/ACAS (Aged Care Assessment Team/Service): For more complex care needs, including Home Care Packages.

Once you have received the Assessment Outcome

1. You’ll be advised of the services or package level you are approved for.

2. Be Placed on the National Waitlist

3. Wait times can vary, so it’s good to explore interim supports while waiting.

4. Get Assigned a Package

5. When a package becomes available, My Aged Care will notify you.

6. Choose a Service Provider

• You can compare providers on the My Aged Care website. Contact providers directly to discuss services, fees, and availability.

7. Sign a Home Care Agreement - This outlines what services will be delivered, fees, and your rights and responsibilities. Once the agreement is in place, your provider will work with you to set up the commencement or services required. 

8. Begin Services - negotiate with provider what days you prefer.