Getting started

Do you want to access residential care? You will need to have an assessment with My Aged Care. My Aged Care is the Commonwealth Government’s starting point on your aged care journey.

  • 1
    Arrange Aged Care Assessment

    Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit their website www.myagedcare.gov.au and arrange for an Aged Care Assessment. You will need your Medicare number and concession card.

  • 2
    Referral code

    Once approved, you’ll receive a referral code.

  • 3
    After the assessment

    Call our admissions team on 1300 653 600 or register your interest online.

  • 4
    Get ready to move!

    Meet our Admissions Team and Move in.

Connect with us to find out more

If you need more information you can call one of our friendly team members now, or request a callback at a preferred time.

Or if you are ready to register your interest in this service, you can do this online now too.

Advice about Residential Care

Female reception staff member on phone call respite care

Residential care includes daily support, 24-hour staff assistance, meals, personal care, medication support, laundry, housekeeping, building maintenance, lifestyle activities and help in emergencies. Residents also receive basic furnishings and are encouraged to bring personal items that help make their room feel like home. Additional services and facilities may vary by location.

Next step: View individual care home pages or contact Helping Hand to discuss what is included at your preferred home.

Residential aged care costs vary depending on the home, room type, government funding and your personal financial situation. The Australian Government may contribute to care costs, and residents may also need to contribute depending on their means assessment. Costs may include care fees, accommodation costs and optional additional services. Helping Hand publishes fees on individual residential care home pages.

Next step: Review My Aged Care cost guidance, check fees on the relevant home page and speak with Helping Hand’s Admissions Team.

Eligibility for government-subsidised residential aged care is assessed through My Aged Care. An aged care assessor will discuss your health, safety, daily support needs and current living situation before confirming whether you are approved for residential aged care. Many people still know this as an ACAT assessment. Your approval letter will explain which services you are eligible to access and may include referral codes.

Next step: Contact My Aged Care to arrange an assessment, then speak with Helping Hand about available homes and next steps.

Yes. Helping Hand can arrange residential care home tours by appointment. Visiting a home can help you understand the environment, rooms, shared spaces, lifestyle activities and whether the home feels right for you or your family member. Entry requirements may change depending on current health or government advice. Virtual tours are also available for some homes on the residential care locations page.

Next step: Call 1300 653 600 or book a tour online.

Aged care residents have rights under the Statement of Rights. These include the right to independence, autonomy, empowerment and freedom of choice; equitable access; quality and safe care and services; respect for privacy and information; person-centred communication and the ability to raise issues without reprisal; and the right to advocates, significant persons, and social connections.

Next step: Read the Statement of Rights and speak with Helping Hand if you have questions about resident rights, advocacy or support.