You can access a range of government-funded aged care services through the Australian Government’s My Aged Care website. In addition, we can support you through the My Aged Care process.
If you live in Victoria, you may also be eligible for other services and benefits.
Types of aged care service
The Australian Government funds services that can help you maintain a good quality of life as you get older, including help at home, short-term care and aged care homes.
Help at home
If you’re keen to stay living in your own home but need some assistance, you can receive help at home, funded by the Australian government. The two most used services are:
Aged care homes
At some point, you may find that your needs have increased and need more support. You may decide you can no longer stay living at home.
An aged care home can help you with everyday tasks, personal care, and nursing care. You will have 24/7 support and can choose your aged care home.
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care Program
This program provides culturally appropriate aged care to older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The service providers in this program deliver a mix of aged care services, mainly in rural and remote areas.
Getting access to aged care services
Whether you are interested in help at home or an aged care home, the process for accessing services is similar.
Who is eligible
To be eligible, you must:
- be over 65 (or over 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
- have a current need for aged care support.
Your income and assets do not affect your eligibility. However, if you are on a higher income, you may need to contribute more towards the cost of your care.
Registration and assessment
My Aged Care is the central point for government-funded aged care services.
Call 1800 200 422 or visit the My Aged Care website to get information or register for aged care services. Registering takes about 45 minutes. You will be asked questions about your health and daily tasks.
Next, an assessment officer will meet with you in your home. An assessment takes around 60 to 90 minutes. Assessment is your opportunity to discuss your needs and any health conditions you have.
Before the assessment, think about what services you need. During the assessment, try to be open about what things are hard for you and what you think you need. You might want to have a support person with if you’re worried, or if you want help to remember what was said.
Finding a provider
Once you have been approved for services, you will need to find an aged care provider.
Providers are listed on My Aged Care.
To find a provider in your area:
- Go to the Find a Provider
- Enter your postcode.
- Choose the service you want.
- Select search.
There may be a waiting time before you can get services. Waiting times are different in different areas.
Other services and benefits for older Victorians
If you are an older Victorian living at home, you may also be able to get:
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- funding for equipment that helps you live safely and independently at home through the Victorian Aids and Equipment Program
- funding for continence aids through the Continence Aids Payment Scheme
- half-price taxi travel for people who cannot drive or use public transport independently through the Multi Purpose Taxi Program
- discounted allied health services, such as podiatry with a Chronic Disease Management Plan, accessed via your GP
- discounts for carers accompanying people with disabilities or who need support with the Companion Card and Carer Card