Understanding Government-Funded Aged Care in Australia (And How to Access It)
Navigating aged care for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming — especially when you're trying to figure out what support is available and where to start. Fortunately, Australia offers a range of government-funded aged care programmes designed to help older Australians stay safe, supported, and independent, whether at home or in care.
Here’s a clear guide to the key programmes available, what they include, and how to access them step by step.
1. Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
For older people who need a little help at home.
CHSP is designed for those who are mostly independent but need occasional support with everyday tasks. It’s a great first step if you're starting to find some things more difficult.
Supports might include:
Cleaning or laundry
Personal care
Help with shopping or cooking
Meal delivery
Transport
Social activities and companionship
Who’s eligible?
People aged 65+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
Still living at home
Only need basic, entry-level support
How to access CHSP:
Register with My Aged Care or call 1800 200 422.
A local Regional Assessment Service (RAS) assessor will visit your home.
If approved, you’ll receive a list of available providers or support to find one that suits you.
2. Home Care Packages (HCP)
For people who need more ongoing or complex care.
HCPs offer a higher level of support than CHSP and are tailored to your needs. Packages are coordinated by a provider and can be used flexibly depending on your preferences.
What can be included:
Help with showering and dressing
Housework, gardening, home modifications
Equipment and mobility aids
Physiotherapy, podiatry, nursing
Social support, transport, meal prep
Managing appointments and medication
There are 4 levels of support:
Level 1: Basic care needs
Level 2: Low-level care
Level 3: Intermediate care
Level 4: High-level care
Who’s eligible?
Aged 65+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
With ongoing or complex care needs
How to access HCP:
Register with My Aged Care.
Get an ACAT assessment (Aged Care Assessment Team).
If approved, you’ll be added to the national waiting list.
When your package is assigned, you choose a provider to manage it.
Need help navigating this process? Our Care Compass service can do the heavy lifting and provide one-on-one support every step of the way.
3. Residential Aged Care
For people who can no longer live safely at home.
This includes long-term care in an aged care home with around-the-clock support.
Includes:
Accommodation and meals
Personal care and hygiene support
Medication and nursing
Lifestyle and social programs
How to access:
Start by registering with My Aged Care
You’ll need an ACAT assessment to determine eligibility
Then you can explore aged care homes and discuss fees, services, and contracts
4. Transition Care Programme
Transition care is short-term support for people who’ve been in hospital and need help recovering before returning home or moving into permanent care.
Must be assessed while still in hospital by an ACAT assessor.
5. Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC)
This programme helps older people regain independence and function after a setback — with a focus on early intervention.
Supports include:
Physio, occupational therapy, personal care, mobility support.
Eligibility:
Not already receiving CHSP or HCP
Experiencing a decline in ability or confidence at home
Step-by-Step: How to Access Government-Funded Aged Care
Call or register online via www.myagedcare.gov.au or phone 1800 200 422
Complete a short screening over the phone
Attend an assessment (RAS for CHSP or ACAT for other programmes)
Receive a referral code and care recommendations
Choose your provider or ask for help from a service like Care Compass
Start receiving care at home, or in a residential setting if needed
Need Help Getting Started?
Understanding the system is one thing — navigating it is another. If you or someone you care about needs support to access government-funded aged care, our Care Compass team can help.
We’ll:
Register you with My Aged Care
Prepare you for assessments
Act as your representative
Match you with the right providers
Ensure you stay independent at home for as long as possible
You can book a free 15-minute discovery session or learn more about our Care Compass services here.
