Navigating the application process for government funding for in-home aged care services can feel overwhelming, especially when all you want is the right support for yourself or a loved one.
At Carer’s Network, we understand how confusing it can seem. That’s why we’ve broken it down into three simple steps, so you feel supported and know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Apply and Get Assessed
The first step is reaching out to My Aged Care (call 1800 200 422) to request an assessment with the Aged Care Assessment Team (often called ACAT).
- The team will meet with you or your loved one to understand your care needs.
- Based on this, they’ll recommend the level of support you may be eligible for.
Think of this as the starting point that opens the door and helps identify your need for future care.
Step 2: Approval and Waiting Period
Once your assessment is complete, if your found eligible, you’ll receive an approval letter that confirms your eligibility and outlines your funding level. This is then followed by a waiting period, where you’re placed in the national queue until a package becomes available. It’s important to understand that the “approved” stage does not mean you get funding straight away, it simply reassures you that you are eligible, but you still need to wait until you’re assigned a funding package. The wait time depends on demand, which can mean waiting several months or sometimes longer.
We know this part can be the hardest, it’s not always quick and it can feel uncertain. But you’re not alone. Our team is here to guide you through this waiting stage and help you plan ahead. This is also a time where many people choose to start their care early by privately funding in-home care services.
Step 3: Package Assigned – Getting the Help You Need
When your government funding is assigned, you’ll receive another letter confirming that you can now access your funding. This letter will include a referral number, which you’ll need to begin your care.
This is the moment things become real. You can now choose your care provider and start accessing the support you need through an aged care home care package. You’re not limited to the providers suggested on the government list, you have the freedom to decide what feels right for you and choose any provider that best fits your needs.
How We Can Help
We know that choosing care is a big decision and we want you to feel confident that you’re in the best hands. With Carer’s Network, you get the reassurance of a team that is big enough to help you, but small enough to care.
We don’t just provide care, we walk alongside you every step of the way. We work with you to create a personalised care plan that matches the right support to your lifestyle and goals. Whether it’s a little extra help with daily tasks or more specialised care, our dedicated Client Services Managers make sure you always feel supported and understood.
We have current capacity and would love to help you or your loved one access the right support. Our services include:
- In-Home Personal Care
- In-Home Domestic Assistance
- Community and Social Support
- Home and Garden Maintenance
- In-Home Respite Care
- In-Home Nursing Services
If you have any questions, you can reach out to our support team any time. We can chat about how we can support you over a coffee or on the phone.
We’re always here to help.
