Glossary

A

Accommodation bond

A lump sum amount that you pay for your accommodation in an aged care home if you entered care before 1 July 2014.

Accommodation charge

A daily amount that you pay towards your accommodation in an aged care home if you entered care before 1 July 2014.

Accommodation costs

The cost of your accommodation in residential aged care. You may pay all or part of this cost, depending on your means assessment. As a general guide:

• Accommodation contribution

  If you are eligible for government assistance (low means), the government may pay some or all of your accommodation costs to your provider. You will be asked to pay an accommodation contribution if the government does not pay the full amount. What you contribute depends on your means assessment, or your income and assets. For more information on how to pay your accommodation contribution, see Refundable Accommodation Contribution (RAC) and Daily Accommodation Contribution (DAC). 

• Accommodation payment

  If you’re not eligible for government assistance with your accommodation costs (not low means), you will pay the room price you agreed to with your aged care home as an accommodation payment. For further information on how to pay your accommodation payment, see Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) and Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP). 

Accreditation

Aged care homes need accreditation to receive government subsidies. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission assesses providers and issues accreditation. This includes performing full audits and checking the quality of care that providers deliver. For more information about the accreditation process, visit the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission’s website.

Acknowledgement

The assessor must ask you or your supporter to acknowledge your care or support plan. This means that you know the content of your plan, but doesn’t mean you’ve agreed or consented to it.  

Active, appointed decision maker

Active, appointed decision makers have legal authority to make decisions for an older person under a Commonwealth, state or territory arrangement. However, they can only make decisions within the scope of their legal authority, and when that authority is active. An active, appointed decision maker may also be a registered supporter.  

In My Aged Care, ‘active, appointed decision maker’ is the term used for a person who would be considered a ‘guardian etc’ under the Aged Care Act 2024. 

Additional service fee

You may choose to pay an additional service fee in an aged care home for things like newspapers or hairdressing. 

The higher everyday living fee replaced additional and extra service fees from 1 November 2025.  

Additional services/items provided at no cost

Aged care homes are required to provide certain services and care by law. Some homes may choose to offer extra services at no additional cost. 

Administrative Appeals Tribunal

If you don’t agree with a decision that has been made about you by an Australian Government agency, then you can go to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), formerly known as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). The ART is a high-level independent body that reviews Australian Government administrative actions. It is not a court. 

Advance care planning

A process of planning for future health and personal care so the person’s values, beliefs and preferences are made known. This can guide decision-making in the future, if the person cannot make or communicate their decisions. 

Advanced care directive

A type of written advance care plan completed and signed by a competent adult.  An advance care directive can record the person's preferences for future health and medical care. Under some laws, it can also appoint a substitute decision maker to make decisions about health and medical care, if someone can’t express their decisions or preferences because of illness or injury.  

An advance care directive is sometimes called a “living will”. 

Advocacy  

The process of supporting a person to understand and exercise their rights, make informed decisions, have their voice heard, and their views and wishes considered. 

Advocacy group

Advocacy groups use various forms of advocacy to influence public opinion and/or policy. They may also offer advocacy services for individual people. 

Advocate

An individual who speaks and acts with or on behalf of a person or group to promote, protect and defend their rights. Under the Aged Care Act 2024 Statement of Rights, older people have the right to engage an advocate of their choice to represent their rights and interests with their aged care provider. Family members, registered supporters, carers and friends can be advocates. 

Age pension

If you have reached Age Pension age (67 years or older), you may be eligible to receive the Age Pension. This is a Services Australia payment which ensures you have an income for your retirement. 

Aged care

If you are an older person living in Australia, then you may receive aged care. This is the personal care, allied health, or nursing care to support you to stay as independent and healthy as you can be.  

Aged care can also help you if you’re caring for someone by helping you look after the person you care for. Aged care can be delivered in-home, in a day or respite centre, or in an aged care home. 

Aged Care Act 2024

The Aged Care Act 2024 is the Commonwealth legislation that allows government funding to be provided for aged care. It also governs aged care services and places older people’s rights at the centre of the system. Learn more about the Act. 

Aged care needs assessors

Trained professionals who conduct aged care assessments for home support and comprehensive assessments. An aged care needs assessor can be a clinical assessor or a non-clinical assessor. Aged care needs assessors are responsible for assessing the needs of older people for Australian Government-subsided aged care services. 

Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (the Commission)

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is the national end-to-end regulator of aged care services, and the primary point of contact for consumers and providers for quality and safety in aged care in Australia. The Commission’s primary purpose is: 

• to protect and enhance the safety, health, well-being and quality of life of aged care consumers
• to promote aged care consumers’ confidence and trust in the provision of aged care services
• to promote engagement with aged care consumers about the quality of their care and services. 

Aged Care Quality Standards (Quality Standards)

Aged Care Quality Standards are now strengthened. They set the standard for the safety and quality of aged care accessed by older people in Australia. They also set clear expectations for providers to ensure they deliver safe and quality care. The Commission is responsible for monitoring how providers meet the Quality Standards’ requirements.   

The strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards replaced the previous Quality Standards in place before the start of the Aged Care Act 2024. 

Aged care service / aged care provider

An aged care service, also known as an aged care service provider, delivers care and services through a range of aged care programs. 

Aged Care Specialist Officers (ACSOs)

Aged Care Service Officers (ACSOs) provide face-to-face My Aged Care support at selected Services Australia service centres in every state and territory. 

Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS)

The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) provides visits from volunteers to older people who live at home or in an aged care home. In each state and territory, ACVVS organisations have coordinators who match you with a suitable regular visitor based on your interests, hobbies and background, to visit you in your own home, or in the community when you are accessing community services or facilities. 

Ageing in place

Your care needs may change over time in an aged care home, so the care and services you get may be adjusted to meet them. This is called ageing in place. An offer of ageing in place does not necessarily guarantee that you may not be required to move in some circumstances - this should be discussed with the service provider. 

Allied health support

Allied health supports or services assist you with health conditions and work with other health professionals in the health system.  

These services can include: 

• physiotherapy (exercise, mobility, strength and balance)
• speech pathology (helps with communicating, swallowing and eating)
• occupational therapy (help to recover or maintain your physical ability)
• podiatry (foot care)
• dietitian (nutrition assessment, food and nutrition advice, dietary changes)
• exercise physiologists (physical activity and education to help manage chronic conditions). 

Agent organisation

An organisation approved by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, whose employees can be engaged to help an older person navigate aged care. In My Aged Care, these employees are called “agents”. An agent must support the older person in a professional capacity. An older person’s family member or friend cannot be an agent. An agent can be involved in discussions with an older person, access and update some of their information, but cannot make decisions for the older person, including about their care or services when liaising with My Aged Care.

Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC)

The Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN-ACC) funding model provides equitable funding to registered providers to deliver care to aged care home residents, based on their needs.  

B

Basic daily fee

An amount that everyone pays for day-to-day services they will receive at the aged care home. 

C

Capacity  

A legal concept referring to a person’s decision-making ability and skills to make certain decision(s). This includes a person’s ability to make some or all decisions about themselves. Capacity can fluctuate and change in relation to specific circumstances or decisions.   

Care fees and charges

You may be asked to pay different care fees and charges for residential aged care. The amount you are required to pay will depend on your income and assets, while daily care fees contribute to the cost of your care. 

Care finders

Care finders is a free service to support vulnerable older people who need intensive support to access aged care and other local services. 

Care leaver

A care leaver is an adult who spent time in institutional or out-of-home care as a child (i.e. under the age of 18). This includes foster care, residential care (mainly children’s homes) or another arrangement outside the immediate or extended family. The term ‘care leaver’ includes Forgotten Australians, Former Child Migrants and Stolen Generations. 

Care plan

In consultation with you, the health professionals who provide your care (which can include your aged care provider) may develop a care plan for you. If you like, your family or a friend can also be involved in this process. The care plan outlines your care needs and instructions about how these needs will be met. It may also be known by other names like restorative care plan, support plan or action plan.  

Care recipient

If you receive aged care and support, either in the community, at home or in an aged care home, then you may be referred to as a care recipient. This is the same as “resident” or “participant” – different providers or programs may use different words. 

Carer allowance

If you are a carer providing daily care and attention for an adult with a disability, a severe medical condition or who is frail aged at home, then you may be eligible for a carer allowance. This is a fortnightly payment administered by Services Australia which may be paid in addition to other payments – visit their website to check eligibility and learn more.

Carer Gateway

If you care for a family member or friend, Carer Gateway can help you find free support services, practical advice, and coaching. It can also connect you to a community of other carers. Carer Gateway is an Australian Government initiative and can be accessed online or by calling 1800 422 737. 

Carer payment

If you are a carer who is unable to participate in paid employment because of the demands of your caring role, then you may be eligible for income support in the form of a carer payment. This payment is administered by Services Australia – visit their website to check eligibility and learn more.  

Chronic disease

A long-term condition that generally does not get better on its own and is generally not cured completely. Chronic diseases can lead to other health complications. They may affect you at any stage, but chronic disease is more common as you age. Some examples include asthma, arthritis, chronic kidney disease, dementia, mental health conditions such as depression, oral disease, osteoporosis and stroke. 

Client Record

A Client Record is when you register with My Aged Care. It includes your details (and carer or registered supporter details), details about assessments, your support plan, and information about service(s) received. You can access your client record through your My Aged Care Online Account. 

Commonwealth Home Support Program

If you are an older person needing help to stay at home and to be more independent in the community, then you may be eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). CHSP provides basic support and care services for older people and their carers.  

Community nursing and health centres

Community nursing and health centres deliver a range of primary health and community-based support to meet local community needs. 

If you are frail aged, then you may get nursing care from an enrolled or registered nurse, or another health professional, at a community nursing and health centre to improve or maintain your health and wellbeing. 

Conflict of interest

A conflict of interest is when someone’s personal or professional interests or obligations interfere with, could compromise, or may influence their ability to perform a role or do a thing impartially. Conflicts of interest can be real, perceived or potential. 

For example, a registered supporter has a duty under the new Aged Care Act to declare, and manage or avoid, conflicts of interest in their role as a supporter. This could include a conflict between the older person’s interests and the registered supporter’s interests. 

Consent

Free, voluntary, and informed agreement between two people or parties. Consent must be free from duress, and current and specific to each thing that the person or party is agreeing to. Informed consent can be achieved through a process of communication, discussion and support in decision-making.  
 
For example, an older person may consent to receiving in-home aged care services, sharing information  
with their aged care provider, or registering a supporter relationship.

Continence Aids Payment Scheme

If you have permanent and severe incontinence, you may be eligible for assistance from the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS). The CAPS is an Australian Government payment that assists eligible people to meet some of the cost of their continence products. It is managed by Services Australia. 

Counselling 

Counselling and support services can provide emotional support and practical assistance to help you manage personal challenges, mental health conditions, some behaviours, and relationships. It is usually delivered by qualified professional counsellors, psychologists, or social workers. Services can also include emotional support, advocacy, information access, and training.  

D

Daily Accommodation Contribution (DAC)

A DAC is your accommodation contribution, expressed or paid as a daily amount. You may be asked to pay a DAC when the government helps with your aged care costs.  

This amount is determined by Services Australia or the Department of Veterans' Affairs based on your means assessment. For further information, see Accommodation Costs and Accommodation Contribution. 

Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP)

A DAP is your accommodation payment, expressed or paid as a daily amount. You can be asked to pay a DAP if you pay the full amount yourself and the government doesn’t help with your aged care costs. It is the accommodation price you agreed on with your provider. 

For further information, see Accommodation payment and Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD). 

Decision-making ability  

The ability and skills of a person to make a particular decision, with the provision of relevant and appropriate support, at a time when a decision needs to be made.

Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Services

If you are caring for someone with dementia, then you may benefit from Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Services. These services are established in each state and territory and can: 

• help you manage behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia such as wandering and aggression
• provide advice, assessment, case management and support to community and residential care workers and family carers. 

Discharge plan

If you are discharged from hospital, you may have a discharge plan. This is a plan developed by the hospital and/or community service providers in close consultation with you and any carers. It helps ensure you receive appropriate and coordinated care when you leave the hospital. 

Domestic help

Domestic help services include home related tasks like cleaning, dishwashing, clothes washing, ironing and shopping. 

E

End-of-life

End-of-life refers to the final stages of a person’s life before they pass away. The death of a loved one is not an easy subject to deal with but there are services, programs and support to assist in this emotionally challenging and stressful time. 

Enduring power of attorney

An enduring power of attorney is a legal document that says a person has given permission for another trusted person (or other trusted people) to act and make decisions on their behalf. This includes when they do not have decision-making ability to make some or all decisions themselves, due to a loss of legal decision-making capacity. Under some laws, this document may also be known as an enduring guardianship.  

An enduring power of attorney can only be made while a person is able to understand what the legal document is and what it gives others the ability to do. 

Enduring attorney  

An enduring attorney is the person appointed by another person under an enduring power of attorney to make certain decisions for them. 

Enduring guardian

An enduring guardian is the person appointed by another person under an enduring guardianship to make certain decisions for them. 

Ex-prisoners of war

If you are an Australian ex-prisoner of war (POW), the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) can provide support for you and for eligible family members. DVA can also provide assistance by paying some aged care costs. A POW is exempt from paying income tested fees in residential aged care. 

Extra service fee

The higher everyday living fee replaced additional and extra service fees on 1 November 2025. If you choose higher standards of accommodation or additional services, you will pay this fee. These vary from home to home. Your aged care provider can provide you with details of these services and the fees that apply. 

F

Financial hardship provisions

If you can’t afford your aged care contributions for reasons beyond your control, you might be eligible for financial hardship assistance that will help you pay your fees. Every case is considered on an individual basis and based on each resident’s financial circumstances. If you get care through the Multi-Purpose Service Program, Commonwealth Home Support Program, or National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care program, financial hardship provisions are different.

Full pensioner

Full pensioners receive the maximum Australian Government means-tested pension. 

G

Goods and equipment

Goods and equipment (sometimes called assistive technology) can help you if you find it difficult to carry out daily living activities or hobbies. It can include items that can assist with mobility, communication, recreation, and personal care. 

Guardian

A guardian is someone who is legally appointed under a guardianship order to make decisions about another person. This can include decisions about their health care, accommodation, services, relationships and personal matters. The terms of each legal arrangement and the Commonwealth, state or territory law it is made under will provide for what each guardian can, and cannot, do.  

A guardian is appointed by a board, panel, court or tribunal where it has been determined a person does not have the legal decision-making capacity to make some or all decisions for themselves, and there is a need to appoint someone else to make such decisions on the person’s behalf.  
 
A family member or friend can be appointed as a guardian. In some circumstances, a public guardian may appointed as the person’s decision maker. The public guardian is an independent, statutory official. 

Guardianship order 

A guardianship or administration order is a legal decision made by board, panel, court or tribunal that can allow a person to make decisions on another person’s behalf. 

H

Home maintenance

Home maintenance services support you to stay in your own home by making it safer and more secure. It only involves repairing or maintaining existing fixtures or features, not adding new modifications.  

Services can include changing light bulbs, maintaining an emergency alarm, replacing tap washers and  lawn mowing.  

Home modification

Home modifications can include installing grab rails, easy-to-use tap sets, ramps, emergency alarms, and other modifications to improve safety and accessibility. Home modifications must be installed by a licensed tradesperson and may be organised through your aged care provider. 

Hospice

A hospice, sometimes called a palliative care unit, is a health service specifically for the people who are in the end-of-life stages. They offer physical, medical, emotional and spiritual support. Some also care for and offer support to the person’s family. Hospices are staffed by specifically trained doctors, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists and volunteers. They can be located in a hospital, health service or a separate facility. 

Hostel care

Some aged care homes that provide low-level nursing, personal care and accommodation are called hostels. They tend to be more common in rural or remote areas and may be part of the Multi-Purpose Service program. 

I

Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority

The Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority (IHACPA) provides independent and transparent advice to the Australian Government in relation to funding for public hospitals and residential aged care services.

Independent aged care advocate

A person who provides individuals accessing, or seeking to access, funded aged care services with free, independent and confidential support, information, advocacy, and rights-based education. Refer to Section 7 of the Aged Care Act for complete definition.   

Under the Aged Care Act 2024 Statement of Rights, older people have the right to engage an advocate of their choice to represent their rights and interests with their aged care provider. Family members, registered supporters, carers and friends can be advocates but are not independent aged care advocates under the Aged Care Act. 

L

Living will

A living will (also known as an advance care directive) documents a person’s wishes about their health and medical care, if they are unable to make decisions themselves.

M

Meals

Meals and other food services can help you maintain a healthy, balanced diet.  If you get aged care services at home, some food-related services can assist you to shop for, prepare and cook a meal in your home.  Others deliver precooked meals you can reheat at home. You can also access advice on nutrition, storage and food preparation.  

If you live in residential aged care, all meals are provided by your aged care service. This consists of at least three meals per day, as well as snacks and drinks, all of which will meet your nutrition and hydration needs. Special diets, such as those required for medical, cultural or religious requirements, are also catered for. 

My Aged Care

My Aged Care makes it easier for older people, their families, and carers to have their aged care needs assessed and be supported to locate and access services. My Aged Care is made up of the My Aged Care website (myagedcare.gov.au), My Aged Care phone line (1800 200 422) and Aged Care Specialist Officers (ACSOs) available at some Services Australia service centres. 

N

National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Strategy

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Strategy aims to improve access to, and quality of, culturally appropriate care for older people aged 50 years and over from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 

National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care Program

If you are an older Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, then you may benefit from the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care Program. This program provides quality, flexible, culturally appropriate aged care close to your home, Country and community.

National Relay Service

If you are d/Deaf or have difficulty speaking or hearing on the phone, you can use the National Relay Service, an Australia-wide phone service.

National Aged Care Advocacy Program

The National Aged Care Advocacy Program provides free, independent, and confidential advocacy support and information to older people receiving Australian Government funded aged care services. The program helps people to understand and exercise their aged care rights, seek aged care services that suit their needs and find solutions to issues they may be experiencing.  

The Australian Government funds the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) to deliver the National Aged Care Advocacy Program, which employs independent aged care advocates across Australia. OPAN’s nine state and territory member organisations are the only employers of independent aged care advocates. Call 1800 700 600 or visit the OPAN website to learn more.   

Non-Compliance Notice (NCN)

A Non-Compliance Notice is a formal regulatory notice issued by the Commission, issued under section 63S(2) of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission Act 2018. 

If a provider is not meeting regulations and standards, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission may issue formal regulatory notices. This means that the provider needs to make improvements to how they deliver care to older Australians.  

Nursing care

Nursing care by a registered or enrolled nurse can provide care at home, in a clinic or at another location such as a hospital. They can perform health assessments, administer medications and provide health advice or treatment according to their level of expertise.   Some nurses are trained in specialist care such as wound care, diabetes education or palliative care. 

Nursing home

Nursing home is another name for aged care homes. They  provide care including accommodation services such as meals, laundry, room cleaning, and personal and nursing care. 

P

Palliative care

Palliative care is provided for people who have an advanced illness, with little or no prospect of cure. The aim of palliative care is to achieve the best possible quality of life for the person, their family and carers. Palliative care is often offered when someone is in the end-of-life stages, but not always. It can be delivered at home, in a hospital or hospice, or in an aged care home. 

Part-pensioner

A part pensioner receives an Australian Government means tested pension that is less than the maximum amount. 

Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care

The Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care (PICAC) Program enables aged care homes and ethnic communities to work together to establish and maintain links between residents of aged care homes and their social, cultural and linguistic networks. There is a co-ordinator for this program in each state or territory.

Personal care

Personal care services give assistance with everyday tasks such as bathing and getting dressed, eating, going to the toilet, grooming, getting in and out of bed, and moving about the house. Some people need assistance with these activities as they age, or when they’re unwell or injured. 

Q

Quality Standards

See Aged Care Quality Standards.

R

Re-ablement

Re-ablement is when a medical or allied health professional uses assessments and short term, targeted interventions to: 

• help people regain ability and capacity to do daily activities or hobbies
• assist people to maximise their independence, choice, health outcomes and quality of life
• appropriately minimise support required and reliance on future and or alternate support
• support people to continue to participate and remain engaged in their local communities as they wish. 

Re-ablement is closely related to wellness. 

Registered supporter

Registered supporters help older people to make and communicate their own decisions about their aged care services and needs. Registered supporters are responsible for understanding their role and duties under the new Aged Care Act, and acting in line with the will and preferences of the older person they are supporting.  

Refundable Accommodation Contribution (RAC)

A RAC is a lump sum for your accommodation costs. You may be asked to pay a RAC when the government helps with your aged care costs.. It is worked out by your provider based on the daily accommodation contribution (DAC) determined by Services Australia. For further information, see Accommodation Contribution and Daily Accommodation Contribution (DAC). 

Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD)

A RAD is a lump sum for your accommodation costs, as agreed with your provider. You can choose to pay a RAD when you pay the full amount yourself and don’t have help from the government. For further information, see Accommodation Payment and Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP). 

Registered provider 

If you receive government subsidised aged care, services or accommodation, then they may be delivered to you by a registered provider. A registered provider is the organisation that owns and operates aged care services including in-home, flexible, respite, and residential care (aged care homes). 

Rehabilitation

If you’re recovering from illness, injury, or have noticed overall physical decline you may benefit from rehabilitation. This helps you to regain as much of your previous ability as possible so that you can become or remain as independent as you can be. Rehabilitation is closely related to re-ablement. 

Rent assistance

Rent assistance is a Services Australia payment that can help pay rent for accommodation in the private rental market.

Resident

If you’re living in an aged care home, you are known as a resident of that home.

Resident Agreement

If you’re living in an aged care home, you can choose whether you wish to enter into a written agreement with your aged care home. A Resident Agreement is a legal agreement that covers the terms of your residency, as well as the rights and responsibilities of both you and your aged care home. It may also outline optional fees or what services are available.  

Residential aged care

If you receive personal and/or nursing care in a residential facility, as well as accommodation, you are in residential aged care. Residential aged care is sometimes called an aged care home. 

Residential aged care is available through multiple types of aged care programs.  

Respite care

Respite care is when someone who is not the regular carer looks after the care recipient. This can be for a few hours, overnight, or a few days. Respite can be delivered at home, in a day or respite centre, or in an aged care home. It’s also available in emergencies. 

It gives carers a break from their caring role and the care recipient a break from their usual care arrangements. Respite care may be given informally by friends, family or neighbours, or by formal respite services.  

Rights and responsibilities

If you receive aged care, you have rights and responsibilities. There are different rights and responsibilities depending on whether you are receiving care at home or in an aged care home.

S

Sanction or Sanctions in place

A sanction is a penalty or punishment that may be given for not following a law. A sanction may be imposed by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on a provider of aged care services for not complying with its aged care responsibilities. The decision to impose sanctions includes consideration of issues such as: 

•  whether non-compliance is minor or serious
• whether non-compliance has occurred before, and if so, how many times
• whether it threatens or would threaten the health, welfare or interests of the consumer(s)
• whether the provider has complied with an Undertaking to Remedy the non-compliance or a Notice to Agree (if relevant). 

Different sanctions may be imposed depending on the circumstances of the non-compliance, which include revocation of approved provider status, loss of Australian Government subsidies for new persons receiving care, or revocation of allocated places. 

Self-funded retiree / non-pensioner

If you fund your own retirement and don't receive any Australian Government means-tested pensions, then you are known as a self-funded retiree. You may sometimes be known as a non-pensioner.

Self-advocacy 

Self-advocacy is when you speak up for yourself on issues that are important to you, including exercising your rights and making informed decisions. Speaking up for yourself can be empowering and supports your independence and puts you in control. 

Service provider

A service provider is an organisation funded to provide aged care services to older people. They are also called aged care providers. 

Short-term care

Short-term care provides care and support services for a set time. There are different types of short-term care depending on your needs. These can include respite care, transition care and some forms of rehabilitation or restorative care. 

Social leave

If you are a permanent resident of an aged care home, you are entitled to 52 nights away from the home in a financial year without having to pay extra fees. This is known as social leave. If you take more than 52 nights you may be asked to pay additional fees. 

Social support

Social support services can help you maintain an active social life to prevent loneliness and isolation. Social support services can include visits to your home, help with shopping and other related activities, help to access support groups and recreational activities in the community.

Special needs groups

Some people and communities have specific care needs, related to their background and life experiences. My Aged Care can help you find aged care providers can support these specific needs, including providers who are verified specialist providers.  

Specialised programs for people with a particular disability

All aged care homes are expected to provide care and services for people who have a disability, but some homes have facilities and programs set up specifically to help people with disabilities. 

Specialised programs for people with a particular health condition

All aged care homes are expected to provide care and services for people with  health conditions, but some homes have facilities or programs set up to help people with specific health conditions. 

Statement of Rights

The Aged Care Act 2024 includes a Statement of Rights, which explains the rights you have when accessing government-funded aged care services. It replaced the Charter of Aged Care Rights on 1 November 2025. 

Staff development and training policy

Many aged care homes have a staff development and training policy that provides detailed information on how they maintain and enhance the skills of their staff. This can include cultural safety and awareness training, training on health conditions, and more. 

Staffing policy

Many aged care homes have a staffing policy that details the types of nursing and non-nursing staff they have, numbers of staff, ratios of staff to residents, time staff spend caring for residents, and other information. 

Support plan

A document that details goals, agreed actions, and discussion outcomes with a care recipient or resident. These are sometimes called other names including care plan, restorative care plan, or goal plan, depending on the provider and program the care is being delivered under. 

Supported resident

If the Australian Government partially or fully pays for your aged care home accommodation costs, then you are known as a supported resident. You may still be required to pay some of the costs of your care. 

Supported decision-making 

The processes and approaches that enable people to exercise their legal capacity, including making or communicating their decisions, will, and preferences, by provision of the support they may want or need to do so. This support may involve a range of persons, services, and assistive technologies. Supported decision-making does not mean making a decision for, or on behalf of, another person. 

Substitute decision-making 

A range of processes and approaches that involve a person making decisions on another person’s behalf. The substitute decision-making approach that an appointed decision maker must take depends on the Commonwealth, state or territory arrangement under which they have legal decision-making authority. 

System Governor

A decision maker identified by the Aged Care Act 2024 (Cth). The System Governor is responsible for making certain decisions under the Act, including those involved in the regulation of registered supporters. 

T

Transition care

If you are an older person who is ready to be discharged from hospital, you may get transition care after your stay. This type of care is designed to ensure more people return home after a hospital stay rather than move into an aged care home prematurely.

Translating and Interpreting Service

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) is available for both English and non-English speakers. For non-English speakers, TIS National can provide telephone and onsite interpreters. For English speakers, TIS National provides interpreting services to help communicate with non-English speaking people using Automated Telephone Interpreting Service and onsite interpreting.

Transport services

Transport services can help get you around your community, including for appointments, social activities, and shopping. You can get picked up by a transport service or receive vouchers or subsidies for taxi services.  

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Veteran and war widow/widower pensioners

If you are a veteran or war widow/widower and you are eligible for and receive a pension from the Department of Veterans' Affairs, then you are known as a veteran and war widow/widower pensioner.  

Support is available for veterans and war widows/widowers.  

Veterans' Home Care

If you are a veteran, war widow or widower who has low care needs to remain in your own home for longer, you may benefit from Veterans' Home Care (VHC). This is a Department of Veterans' Affairs program that provides services including domestic assistance, personal care as well as gardening and home maintenance. 

Veterans’ supplement

If you are a veteran with an accepted mental health condition, then you may benefit from the Veterans’ Supplement. This supplement was introduced from 1 July 2013 and applies to all eligible veterans receiving some in-home care or living in an aged care home. It is designed to help providers deliver appropriate care to veterans with an accepted mental health condition. 

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War widow/widower pensions

War widow/widower pensions are pensions paid by the Department of Veterans' Affairs to widowed partners and dependents of veterans who have died because of war service or eligible defence service.