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My Aged Care Help

A plain-English guide to navigating the My Aged Care system — from registration to finding a provider.

What is My Aged Care?

My Aged Care is the Australian Government's central entry point for accessing aged care services. It is operated by the Department of Health and Aged Care and provides information, referrals, and assessments for older Australians seeking care.

You can access My Aged Care online at myagedcare.gov.au or by calling 1800 200 422 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 10am–2pm).

Step-by-Step: How It Works

  1. Register with My Aged Care Call 1800 200 422 or register online. You will need your Medicare card. A family member or carer can register on your behalf with your consent.
  2. Screening A My Aged Care contact centre staff member will ask you some questions about your needs and situation to determine which type of assessment is appropriate.
  3. Assessment You will be referred to either a Regional Assessment Service (RAS) for entry-level support, or an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) for higher-level home care or residential care. Assessments are conducted in your home and are free.
  4. Receive Your Approval Letter After your assessment, you will receive a letter detailing the type and level of care you have been approved for. Keep this letter — you will need it when engaging a provider.
  5. Choose a Provider Use the My Aged Care Find a Provider tool, or let CareCaddie help you compare and connect with accredited providers near you.
  6. Begin Receiving Care Once you have selected a provider and signed a care agreement, your services will begin. Your care plan will be reviewed regularly.

Tip: Register with My Aged Care as early as possible. Government-funded packages can have wait times, and your position on the national queue starts from your registration date — not your assessment date.

Common Questions

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No. You can contact My Aged Care directly without a GP referral. However, your GP can help identify your needs and may refer you on your behalf.

Can someone help me through the process?

Yes. A family member, friend, or carer can assist you with registration and assessments. You can also access free support through an Aged Care Navigator — a government-funded service that helps people understand and access the aged care system.

What if I disagree with my assessment outcome?

You have the right to request a review of your assessment decision. Contact My Aged Care to begin the review process. You can also seek support from an aged care advocate through the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) on 1800 700 600.

How long will I wait for a package?

Wait times for government-funded home care packages vary depending on your assessed support level and your location. Once assigned a package, you will receive a letter from My Aged Care and have 56 days to choose a provider (extensions are available on request).