When you have found a suitable service provider that can offer you the care you need, they will give you a recipient agreement. This will formally outline what care and support you will receive.
The recipient agreement
The agreement will be written in language that is easy to understand, and cover the following points:
Care and services
The agreement will outline the range of services, particularly therapies, that you need. It will explain how and when they will be delivered. It will also include a start and end date for care, as well as what happens once care is completed (known as an ‘exit strategy’).
Costs
The agreement will include a statement of charges, setting out costs and how they are worked out. Your financial circumstances are included in this explanation.
Management
The agreement will explain how to change or cancel your care, the complaints and feedback process, and the rights and responsibilities for both you and your service provider.
Help understanding your recipient agreement
You can have another person such as a family member, friend, or carer with you when you develop your care plan and recipient agreement.
You can also ask for an advocate to represent you or help you develop your care agreement with your provider.
An advocate can help by:
- participating in the discussion about your recipient agreement and care plan
- talking about any concerns you may have.
Read more about how you can access help on our representatives page.
You can also read more about the National Aged Care Advocacy Program.
Signing your recipient agreement
Once you understand and are satisfied with the terms, you can sign your recipient agreement.
Do I have to sign the agreement?
No, you don’t have to formally acknowledge the agreement. If you choose not to, your service provider is still required to follow their responsibilities to you. You can also enter into the agreement at any time during care.
Can the agreement be changed?
Yes, but only if agreed to by both you and your provider. If you move between care settings and services within your own state or territory, there is no need to enter into a new agreement.