Navigating the aged care system can be challenging to say the least. Families often feel a mix of relief and frustration when seeking help, with the latter owing to delays in accessing government-funded services like the National Home Care Package (HCP) waitlist**.
As challenging as this period of limbo can be, it is a part of the journey that must be waited out. Though it can take several months, and sometimes up to a year, before services are fully assigned, there are practical steps you can take to stay supported and prepared during this period.
**Home Care Packages will be replaced by Support at Home from Nov 1, 2025.
We believe no one should feel alone or unsupported while waiting for care. This article will help you understand how the waitlist works, what to expect along the way, and how to use this time to put the right supports in place.
What Is the National Waitlist?
Once you have completed your My Aged Care assessment and been approved for services, your name is placed on the National Waitlist. This waitlist ensures that Home Care Packages are allocated fairly, based on individual need, urgency, and the availability of services in your area.
Typically, the wait can range from 6 to 9 months, though this timeframe may vary. Factors like your health status, geographic location, and priority level influence how quickly funding becomes available.
While waiting can be frustrating, the system is designed to ensure those with the greatest need are supported first.
The Three Letters You’ll Receive
During your wait, you’ll receive updates from My Aged Care to let you know where you are in the process. These letters are important milestones:
- Letter 1 – Approval: Confirms your eligibility and adds you to the waitlist.
- Letter 2 – Get Ready: Indicates that your funding is expected soon. This is the time to begin researching and speaking to providers, so you’re ready to act quickly.
- Letter 3 – Assigned: Confirms that funding is available and provides your Referral Code, the key that unlocks services once you’ve chosen a provider.
Understanding these letters will help you stay organised and avoid delays once funding is assigned.
Aged Care Decisions can assist to help you understand which stage you’re at and what to do.
Start comparing providers rightaway with a tailored report sent to you within 20 minutes. Get started here.
Common Questions About the Wait
- Should I Wait for Letter 3 Before Contacting a Provider?
No. In fact, we recommend connecting with a provider as soon as possible. Establishing a relationship early means you’ll be prepared when funding arrives, and you’ll avoid the stress of rushing decisions later. - Do I have options while I wait?
Yes. Many families choose to begin with private pay services such as personal care, domestic support, respite, or nursing, while waiting for their package. These services can bridge the gap and ensure continuity of care once government funding kicks in. - What if my circumstances change?
If your health or care needs increase while on the waitlist, you can request a reassessment from My Aged Care. This may increase your priority level and reduce your waiting time depending on your individual situation.
What You Can Do Now: Five Proactive Steps
Waiting doesn’t have to mean standing still. Here are five practical steps you and your family can take today:
1. Book a Consultation with a Provider
Speaking with an approved home care provider early gives you clarity about the services available and helps you plan ahead. At Aged Care Decisions we help families connect with the best-suited provider, completely free of charge.
2. Explore Private Services
Even a few hours a week of private support can make a big difference while waiting for government funding. Services might include personal care, meal preparation, transport, or light cleaning. Starting small now allows for a smoother transition later.
3. Get Organised with Helpful Tools
Record health details, care preferences, and important contacts. Having everything in one place will save time when funding is assigned.
4. Make Home Safety Improvements
The waiting period is an excellent time to prepare the home environment. Simple adjustments, like adding grab rails in the bathroom, improving lighting, or clearing walkways can significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
5. Involve Family Members Early
Care decisions affect the whole family. Engaging loved ones early ensures everyone is on the same page and can share responsibilities.
Using the Waiting Period Wisely
Instead of viewing the waitlist as ‘lost time’, families can reframe it as an opportunity to prepare. By taking small but proactive steps, you can ensure a smoother transition once funding is available.
Some families find that the process sparks important conversations about values, preferences, and long-term care goals. Others use the time to gradually introduce services.
Most importantly, staying connected to a provider during the waiting period means you’ll feel more supported. You’ll know who to call for advice, guidance, or immediate private services if circumstances change.
The National Home Care Waitlist may be part of the aged care journey, but it doesn’t mean you or your loved one need to go without support. By understanding how the process works, knowing what to expect from the three My Aged Care letters, and taking proactive steps while waiting, you can stay safe, supported, and prepared.
Aged Care Decisions is here to guide you through your aged care journey. Our 100% FREE, FAST and INDEPENDENT service supports tens of thousands of families each month, with expert home care specialists ready to support you at every stage. Get started here.
Here’s how our FREE service works:
