Cost of Residential Aged Care
Each aged care home sets its own prices up to a maximum limit set by the Commonwealth Government, so costs will vary between homes. How much you pay depends on the aged care home that you choose, and a ‘means test’ that will look at your income and assets.
The cost for residential aged care is divided into three fees.
Read more about how residential aged care funding works, including means testing income thresholds, and the means tested care fee.
Basic Daily Living Fee
The Basic Daily Living Fee covers living expenses such as meals, cleaning, facilities management and laundry.
This fee is equivalent to 85% of the annual single basic Age Pension and is adjusted in March and September at the same time as the Age Pension.
Accommodation Cost
The Accommodation Cost is a contribution of full payment of your room.
The accommodation charge of your room is based on a means assessment and depends on the value of your assets and income when you enter care.
Means-tested Care Fee
The Means-tested Care Fee is the cost to meet your healthcare needs.
Depending on your financial situation, you may be required to pay the costs of your individual care needs. You can get an idea of what you may have to pay by using the My Aged Care residential care fee estimator.
Optional services that incur a fee
Aged care homes may also offer additional services that incur an additional service fee. These may include things like hairdressing or access to paid TV. You only need to pay for the services that you use, and it’s up to you to decide what additional services you would like.
Eligibility and application process
To qualify for the Residential Aged Care Subsidy, you must be:
- Over 65 years (or over 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
- Have an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessment
- Undergo an income and asset test for funding contributions.
Is this funding option suitable for me?
If you require full-time care and support, residential aged care provides a safe, structured living environment with professional assistance.
What’s included and not included?
Included:
- 24/7 nursing care
- Meals
- Personal care
- Social activities and outings.
Not included:
- Private accommodation fees (if applicable).
What are the steps for HAS funding?
- Contact My Aged Care at 1800 200 422
- Arrange an ACAT assessment
- Choose an aged care home and discuss funding options.
Step 1
Contact my aged care
Contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au to register and organise an ACAT assessment.
An ACAT assessment will help determine your eligibility for funding towards the cost of residential aged care.
During this stage, we recommend visiting residential aged care homes and making a shortlist of your preferred homes.
Step 2
Calculate Any Contributions
To ensure you feel confident about the financial component of your care, it’s important to understand the various payment options and subsidies available.
If you’re searching for a permanent home, you’ll need to complete a financial assessment with Services Australia to find out your required contribution towards accommodation costs.
Step 3
Find Your Home
Choosing your new home can be a challenging decision.
Our team is here to guide you through the process.
To arrange a tour of any of our residential aged care homes (link), simply call us on 1300 610 610. We’ll take the time to discuss your unique care needs and explore how we can support your overall wellbeing.
Even if you’re not ready to move, now is an ideal time to consider adding your name to the waitlist of your preferred home. This will help increase your chances of securing a spot when the time is right.
Step 4
Apply for Admission
Once your ACAT assessment is complete and you’ve chosen your preferred home, submit your application for entry into residential care.
Contact the friendly Anglicare admissions teams on 1300 610 610 and we will assist you throughout the admissions process.
Before signing an agreement, we recommend seeking independent advice from an aged care financial advisor specialist to ensure you access the best payment options and arrangements.
Step 5
Move in
We’ll work closely with you and your family to move and settle you into your new Anglicare home.
Our team will ensure that your home provides you with the services and activities that are a fit with your needs, abilities and interests.
Other funding options
There are various funding options to help you access care and support at home and beyond. We’ll help you find the best fit for your needs today while also exploring options for the future, so you always have the right support at the right time.
Access our services
We’re here for you. Submit this form or call us to access an Anglicare service or program. Our team is available between 7am and 5pm weekdays on 1300 610 610.
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Getting started
Navigating aged care funding can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to guide you through each stage – from understanding your options to securing the support you need. Taking the first step is often the hardest, but with our help, you’ll feel confident and supported every step of the way.
We’re here to help
Get in touch today and let us help you access the right funding and support for your needs.