We understand that when it comes time to access aged care services for yourself or deciding how best to help someone close to you, aged care is a complex area and requires careful thought. The process, paperwork and financial impact can be overwhelming. We can assist you from completing means-tested assessments and applications through to structuring fully tailored financial plans.
The basic steps in the aged care process are outlined below
(From 1st November 2025).
1. Approval
Before entering an aged care facility your health must be assessed by an aged care needs assessor to determine your eligibility for care. An aged care needs assessment can be performed by any doctor, nurse or social worker.
2. Find a home
To make sure you find a home that you are comfortable in and that will suit your needs. The description of the rooms and services available for all approved aged care facilities are published on the Government’s aged care website. This website also provides accommodation costs for the facility.
3. Organise your finances
You may be asked to pay the following fees in residential care:
Accommodation payment: this is for your accommodation in the aged care home. Some people will have their accommodation costs met in full or in part by the Australian Government, while others will need to pay the accommodation price agreed with the aged care home. You have the choice to pay the accommodation payment as a refundable accommodation deposit (RAD), daily accommodation payment (DAP) or a combination of both.
Essential Living Expenses: consists of the Basic daily fee plus a Means-tested Hotelling Contribution. These fees cover living costs such as meals, electricity, bed linen and cleaning.
Care Contribution: is a Non-clinical care contribution towards the cost of care.
Higher Everyday Living Fee: this pays for lifestyle expenses such as newspapers, wine, Foxtel etc. Entering a higher Everyday Living arrangement is optional.
4. Where to find help
Our financial advisers will be able to:
- Help you decide between paying a RAD or DAP.
- Help you calculate your means-tested fee.
- Identify strategies for minimising the fees and maximising Centrelink entitlements.
- Discuss the implications of selling vs keeping your current home.
