Easy access to aged care
We’ve heard that people in Australia want accessing aged care to be easier. Easier to understand, easier to get support and easier to find information and make decisions about aged care.
The Australian Government is committed to reforming aged care and providing easy, consistent and equal access to aged care information, support and care.
My Aged Care
My Aged Care is the entry point to government-funded aged care services for older people. You can access My Aged Care through the website, phone line and in person at some Services Australia locations.
My Aged Care will help you understand the different types of care, assess your eligibility, refer you to an aged care assessor and can help you find services if you are eligible.
You can now also make an appointment to talk to someone in person about My Aged Care at 80 Services Australia locations. All Services Australia staff are being trained to assist with basic My Aged Care support to use the website or phone lines.
Support for vulnerable people
Supports are being developed and rolled out in local communities to help people who are socially isolated, find it difficult to understand information and make decisions or are hesitant to engage with aged care or government.
The National Dementia Support Program provides information, education programs, services and resources for people living with dementia and their carers. If you feel you need some support, visit Dementia Australia at dementia.org.au or call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
Culturally safe aged care
A workforce of Trusted Indigenous Facilitators is being developed to help First Nations Elders, their families and carers to access aged care services that meet their physical and cultural needs.
We have also made it easier for older people with diverse backgrounds and life experiences to access more reliable information about their care providers. This will help them find safe, high-quality aged care services and give them greater choice to match their care needs.
Making it easier to access the aged care system
Do you need some help around the house or are you thinking about aged care homes? Contacting My Aged Care is the first step.
Phone: 1800 200 422
For translating and interpreting services, call 131 450 and ask for 1800 200 422.
To use the National Relay Service, visit nrschat.nrscall.gov.au/nrs or call the NRS Helpdesk on 1800 555 660.
Online: myagedcare.gov.au
In person: to make an appointment, call 1800 227 475 (Monday–Friday, 8am to 5pm).
