Eligibility for Government-Funded Aged Care in Australia: A Clearer Picture
Determining eligibility for government-funded aged care in Australia is a straightforward process, focusing on your loved one’s needs rather than finances.
Key Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: 65+ for most Australians, 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
- Need for Assistance: Requiring help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or preparing meals.
Financial Status Doesn’t Affect Eligibility:
- Regardless of income or assets, your loved one can access support based on their functional needs.
- However, the amount you contribute towards the care cost can vary based on income and assets.
Understanding Contribution Levels:
- Home Care: Income-tested fees are determined by Services Australia.
- Residential Care: Means-tested care fees are assessed by Services Australia.
Government Funding and Your Contribution:
- Government funding covers a portion of the care cost, paid directly to your provider.
- If you have a contribution fee, it’s deducted from the government funding before your provider receives payment.
Caps on Contributions:
- There are annual and lifetime limits on your financial contribution, ensuring you won’t pay indefinitely.
Peace of Mind and Next Steps:
Understanding eligibility can ease worries and empower you to navigate the system. Feeling unsure about financial assessments or care costs?
Get Expert Clarity:
Book a call with our aged care cost experts for a clear picture of your situation and next steps.
DIY Option:
Use the My Aged Care fee estimator (https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/fee-estimator) to get a starting point.
Whether you choose expert advice or go it alone, this information empowers you to make informed decisions for your loved one’s care.