In this section, you can learn about how to apply for an assessment, what's involved and what you'll need to prepare for it. It's easy to apply for an assessment, and most assessments take place in your home. This ensures that you feel comfortable and safe when the assessor visits and asks you about your situation and needs.
Applying for an assessment
If you need some help and want to access aged care services, the first step is to get assessed.
There are a few ways to apply for an aged care assessment:
- Apply online: You can complete the online application for yourself or on behalf of someone else. You will need your Medicare card on hand. The application takes 10 to 15 minutes. Click Apply now to start your online application.
- Apply over the phone: You can call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. If you need assistance on the call, there are support options available.
- Apply in person: If you would prefer to talk to someone face to face, you can make an appointment with an Aged Care Specialist Officer (ACSO) at a Services Australia centre by calling 1800 227 475.
If you need help with your application:
- A trusted family member, friend or community representative can help you apply and be at the assessment with you.
- If you are isolated or vulnerable, you can contact aged care advocates for information or use the care finder service.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can ask for an assessment with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander assessment organisation. Read more about Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including those from Stolen Generations.
Once your application is complete, an assessment organisation will call you (or someone you choose) to discuss your needs and, based on the discussion, arrange a date for the assessment.
Assessments are carried out in your home by a trained assessor and can also be:
- at other locations, or
- via telehealth, or
- over the phone.
Veterans and war widow(er)s may be eligible for some aged care support without an assessment. You can learn more through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs or call 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).
Ready to apply for an assessment?
The screens were nice and bright, and everything was there that I needed. I was able to do it online on my phone and the process was nice and easy as mum was there to answer all the questions with me.
It’s not as daunting as you think it is. Doing it on my phone was a lot easier than ringing up.
Preparing for your assessment
The assessor will come to your house and ask you some questions about your current situation and needs so they can recommend the support and services that might suit you.
The assessment is a simple process, but it’s good to be prepared and know what to expect, such as:
- what information and documents you'll need
- what the assessor will ask you
- what you should ask your assessor
- who can be with you at the assessment.