How to apply for My Aged Care Package: Step-by-Step Guide
The Australian Governmentโs My Aged Care system provides access to a range of funded aged care services tailored to meet your individual needs.
Whether you’re exploring ways to stay in your own home longer or just need a little extra support, this guide will help make the process easy.
Read more about:
- What is My Aged Care?
- How do I apply for an assessment through My Aged Care?
- Understanding the cost
- Quick recap and next steps
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Ready to apply?
What is My Aged Care?
My Aged Care is the Australian Governmentโs entry point to determine if you are eligible for aged care services.
It connects older Australians to a variety of government funded aged care services from basic home care needs to more complex Home Care Packages for high care needs.
To determine your eligibility for these services and to find out if you need to contribute in any way, visit My Aged Care.
For more details on how assessments work, keep reading or check out our Aged Care Assessment: What You Need to Know article.
How do I apply for an assessment through My Aged Care?
Step 1: Contact My Aged Care and apply for an assessment
Simply phone My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or go online here.
You will be asked to answer a series of questions about your health, daily activities, and any current support you receive (if any).
This information helps determine if you are eligible for government funding and what kind of care and Home Care Packages program you might need.
Step 2: The in-home assessment
If your application is successful, an aged care assessor will contact you to arrange an in-home assessment.
The assessment will determine exactly what you need and can even let you know about services you may not have thought about.
This information is then used to set the level of Home Care Package or other funded aged care services you can access.
Step 3: The outcome
Finding out what support you are eligible for can be lengthy process. In fact, the process from assessment to approval for a Home Care Package (HCP) can be up to 15 months*, hence why itโs important to apply sooner rather than later.
If youโre eligible for services through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), you will usually find out during your assessment. You or your representative will receive a letter to confirm this, usually sent within 2 to 6 weeks after your assessment.
If you are approved for either a HCP or CHSP, you’ll receive a detailed support plan to explain which services you are eligible for.
*Last revised by My Aged Care on 30 September 2024
Step 4: Choose a service provider
At Feros Care, weโre proud to offer flexible and highly personalised Home Care Packages designed to help you live independently in your own home for as long as possible.
Once youโre approved for funded aged care services, reach out to us so we can set things up for your care.
My Aged Care can help by offering a list of local service providers. Take your time to compare options and choose a provider that aligns with your preferences and care requirements.
Understanding the cost
Itโs important to understand the cost of aged care services as although the Australian Government provides subsidies, there may also be a contribution from you based on your financial situation.
Your assessor will provide information on potential costs during the assessment process.
Quick recap and next steps
If youโre ready to get started, hereโs a brief summary.
- Call My Aged Care to begin the process for an assessment.
- If eligible, meet with an assessor to discuss your needs.
- Wait for your outcome and find out what youโve been approved for.
- Find and connect with a service provider. Contact Feros Care to get started!
By following these steps, you can confidently apply for My Aged Care and access the support you need to live your best bold life at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my service provider later?
Yes, you can switch to another provider if you feel they better suit your needs. There are no additional charges to swap providers and no joining or exit fees. We can help you transition to Feros Care if you are unsatisfied with your current provider.
How can Feros Care help?
Weโre here to make the process as smooth as possible, whether you are signing up for support for the first time or changing providers.
From navigating the complexities of Home Care Packages to providing premium aged care services, our knowledgeable and helpful Wellbeing Managers and phone-based client services team are dedicated to keeping you independent and thriving at home.
Ready to Apply?
Taking the first step towards aged care doesnโt have to be overwhelming and at Feros Care, weโre here to answer your questions, chat about your needs, and ensure you receive exceptional care every step of the way.
To sign learn more your aged care options and our Home Care Packages, give our friendly team a call on 1300 418 418 or simply request a callback by filling in the form below.