Get a referral for an assessment

It is best to first speak with your doctor, who will refer you to an assessment service to assess your needs.

Consultations are provided from your local Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), or if you live in Victoria - Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS).

Referrals are also accepted from family or friends, hospital social workers, local community service providers, residential facilities or anyone with a legitimate interest in the person requiring care.

Receive your free ACAT assessment

A member of your local ACAT will visit you in your home or in hospital, to determine the best care options for your situation.

There will be no charge for the assessment as the service is Government funded.

While an ACAT cannot make recommendations about individual aged care homes, they can provide you with information to assist you to make a decision.

Once you have completed the assessment, you'll receive a letter detailing what type of services you're eligible for, and the reasons why. Your letter proves you're eligible to receive specific Australian Government subsidised aged care services - so don't lose it!

Find and inspect chosen aged care homes

Now that you've received your letter of eligibility you're free to start inspecting aged care homes.

It is recommended that you inspect as many potential homes as possible, just as you would when buying or renting a house. This will help you to gauge the feel and culture of the home.

The process takes time so if the situation is urgent then private providers are more likely to be able to respond very quickly – sometimes in a matter of hours.

Government funded services usually need more time to understand, access and begin to receive services. If private services cannot be afforded, then in emergencies it is best to contact a General Practitioner or local hospital.

Did you know, you can use our website to search for homes in the area you'd like to live? AgedCareGuide.com.au displays the contact details for each home so you can easily arrange inspection times.

Choosing a suitable nursing home

Press the play button below to listen to this great podcast about choosing a suitable nursing home.

More resources

• See the list of ACATs in your state or read more about ACATs
• Get more of an idea of the costs for residential care