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How to apply for a home care package: your step-by-step guide

If you’re thinking about applying for a home care package, the process can feel daunting at first.

There are forms to complete, unfamiliar terms to navigate, and long wait times that can make the journey confusing.

The positive news is that once you know the steps, it’s a clear and structured process.

At Age Up Health, we’ve helped many older Australians and their families understand and access support. This guide outlines exactly what you need to do — from registration to assessment — so you can feel confident about what comes next.

Step 1: Gather your information

Before registering, make sure you have the following details ready:

• Medicare card number
  
• Date of birth and contact details
  
• Current residential address
  
• Whether you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
  
• The types of services you think you may need
  

Having this information on hand will make your registration quicker and smoother.

Step 2: Register with My Aged Care

My Aged Care is the government’s entry point for aged care services, including home care packages.

You can:

• Register online (the form takes around 15–20 minutes).
  
• Call 1800 200 422 to complete registration over the phone.
  

You may also ask your GP or specialist to submit a referral on your behalf. Professional referrals can sometimes help strengthen an application.

Step 3: Book your in-home assessment

Once you’ve registered, an assessor will contact you to arrange a home visit.

During this visit, they’ll ask questions about:

• Your health and mobility
  
• Daily routines and activities
  
• Your living environment
  
• Any informal or family supports you currently rely on
  

Assessments usually take 6–8 weeks to arrange, though this can be faster for people with urgent needs.

Step 4: Receive your assessment outcome

After your visit, you’ll find out whether you’re eligible for a home care package.

If approved, you’ll be placed on the national waitlist until funding is assigned.

While the wait can take time, applying early secures your place in the queue.

Frequently asked questions about home care package assessments

How can I reduce my wait time?

You can take proactive steps to avoid delays:

• Call My Aged Care (1800 200 422) and ask which assessment organisations are available in your region.
  
• Contact those organisations directly to ask about current waiting times.
  
• Request that your referral be sent to the one with the shortest wait.
  
• Confirm that the organisation has received your referral.
  

This can sometimes save you weeks.

How long does it take to get assessed?

On average, 6–8 weeks. If you’re considered high priority, it may be faster, but in some regions it can take longer.

Can I have someone with me during the assessment?

Yes. You’re welcome to have a family member, carer, or friend present to provide additional support.

What if I’m not approved?

If you don’t qualify for a home care package, you may still be eligible for entry-level services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). Your assessor will talk you through the options.

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You can apply directly through My Aged Care. However, a GP or specialist referral may help support your case.

What happens after approval?

You’ll remain on the national waitlist until funding is released. Once assigned, you’ll be able to choose your preferred provider.

What if my health changes while I wait?

If your needs change, call My Aged Care (1800 200 422) and request a reassessment. This may update your priority level.

Does the assessment cost anything?

No. All in-home assessments arranged through My Aged Care are free.

10 signs your home care package might need a reassessment

Support needs don’t stay the same—and your home care package shouldn’t either. As health changes, tasks become more difficult, or circumstances shift, it’s important to make sure your care still fits your life.

Whether you’re receiving services or still on the waitlist, reassessment is how you unlock the right level of support at the right time.

Here are 10 common signs it may be time to review your care, plus how to apply for more support when you need it.

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