Aged Care

The aged care system in Australia supports older people who need assistance at home or can no longer live independently. This support may include:

• help with daily activities
• assistive equipment and home modifications
• personal care and health services
• accommodation.

Aged care services

People aged 65 and older (or 50 and older if they identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander) may be eligible for government-funded aged care services. These services are not limited to a single type of care. The Australian government provides support through home care programs, short term care packages, and residential aged care. There are also specific services available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Older people can continue to access healthcare through state and territory services, as well as general practitioners and primary care providers. Specialist services, such as dementia care, are also available.

Those who can afford it may need to contribute to some of the costs. For those not eligible for government-funded services, or who prefer not to use them, private care options are available.

Aged care services aim to improve the quality of life for those receiving care. The sector’s quality is guided by the Aged Care Act and the Aged Care Quality Standards.