When living at home is no longer safe or manageable — even with help from family or home care services — moving into residential aged care may become the best option. In Australia, government-subsidised residential aged care is carefully regulated to make sure older people get the right level of care when they need it most.
The first step towards entering an aged care home is a formal assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) if you live in Victoria. This guide explains what residential aged care involves, how the assessment works, what you need to do to prepare, and what happens afterwards.
Residential aged care is a service for older Australians who can no longer live safely or independently at home. It includes accommodation, personal care (such as help with bathing, dressing, and mobility), nursing care, meals, social activities, and allied health services. Some facilities also provide secure dementia care and palliative care services.
Because residential care is subsidised by the Australian Government, you must first be assessed as eligible through an ACAT/ACAS assessment. This ensures funding goes to those who genuinely need 24-hour care and support in a residential setting.
Everyone’s situation is different, but common reasons people move into residential care include:
It’s not a decision to be made lightly. Most people try to stay at home for as long as possible with support from programs like Support at Home, but when care needs become too high or unsafe, residential aged care can provide the right level of support and peace of mind.
The Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS in Victoria) is a team of health professionals — usually nurses, social workers, or occupational therapists — who are specially trained to assess your care needs. They decide whether you are eligible for government-subsidised residential aged care.
The assessment is free and typically takes place in your home, in hospital, or wherever you are living. The team will look at your medical history, daily living activities, current supports, and overall health and wellbeing to decide if residential care is appropriate and what level of care you require.
You start by registering with My Aged Care:
Once your referral is accepted, an ACAT/ACAS team member will contact you to book a time for your assessment.
The ACAT/ACAS assessment is not a test — it’s about understanding your needs. During the visit, you can expect:
You can have a family member, friend, or carer with you for support — this is often very helpful.
After your assessment, the team will send you a letter explaining:
This letter is your official approval and is required when applying to residential aged care facilities. It usually remains valid for 12 months, so you have time to plan and find the right place.
Preparing for an ACAT/ACAS assessment can make the process smoother and help ensure you get the right outcome:
It’s important to remember you have rights:
If you disagree with the outcome, you can appeal the decision through My Aged Care or request a reassessment if your situation changes significantly.
Once you’re approved for residential care:
Can I choose which home I go to? Yes. You or your family can decide which approved provider best suits your needs, budget, and location preferences. You’re not automatically assigned a facility.
Can I stay on the waiting list for multiple homes? Yes. Many people apply to more than one facility, as waiting times vary widely.
What if I only need short-term care? Your ACAT/ACAS assessment can also approve you for short-term respite care if you only need temporary support — for example, while a family carer is away or after a hospital stay.
The time from registering with My Aged Care to receiving your ACAT/ACAS approval can vary depending on how urgent your needs are and local demand. If you are in hospital and unable to return home safely, assessments are usually prioritised.
It’s best to start the process early — don’t wait for a crisis if you know your care needs are increasing.
Helping someone move into residential aged care is emotional for families. Here are some tips:
Remember, the goal is to find a safe, supportive environment where your loved one’s health and quality of life are protected.
For more information or assistance:
Being assessed for Commonwealth-regulated residential aged care can feel daunting, but it’s designed to ensure you get the right level of care and support at the right time. With clear information, the backing of trusted family or carers, and honest conversations with your assessor, you’ll be well-prepared to make choices that keep your wellbeing and dignity front and centre.