When choosing an Australian aged care provider, it is important to remember there are many different types of providers. Some may be not-for-profit, others might be privately owned and some may offer a lower level of care. As there are so many varieties of aged care providers, it can often be difficult to decide on the right provider for you. This guide provides everything you need to know about what’s on offer so you can make an informed decision. Your aged care journey begins with choosing a provider that ensures you get the best care that is right for you.
What is a residential aged care provider?
A residential aged care provider is an organisation that owns residential aged care facilities and provides aged care support to aging Australians. Broadly, there are two types of residential aged care providers: government-subsidised aged care providers and non-subsidised aged care providers.
Government-subsidised aged care providers
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission regulates all government-subsidised aged care providers, as they are required to meet strict regulations and standards on quality. Since the Australian Government subsidises these providers, it enables you to access affordable aged care if you are eligible. Check your eligibility here.
Government-subsidised aged care providers are able to offer you quality care at a subsidised cost.
Non-subsidised aged care providers
Non-subsidised aged care providers are not subsidised by the government. However, they can apply for government grants, which enable them to offer subsidised services through various programmes.
For private non-subsidised providers, you will need to pay the full cost associated with their services. You may decide to access non-subsidised providers if you are not eligible for subsidised services or are placed on a waiting list for subsidised services.
At Aged Care Decisions, we have built an extensive network of aged care providers that offer quality care. We provide a free and independent service tailored to your needs. Our placement specialists personalise their support to you, so they can assist you in finding the best aged care option for your needs. Click here or call us on 1300 775 870 to access our free service.
Are all aged care providers the same?
Government-subsidised aged care providers must provide quality care that meets the government’s regulations and standards. However, each aged care provider still differs in their approach and how they offer care. Not only do they offer different types of aged care, they also offer care at different prices.
The Aged Care Decisions team can help you compare the costs of different aged care providers, allowing you to find a quality provider within your budget. Call us for a chat on 1300 775 870.
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What are the different types of aged care providers?
In Australia, you can choose between five types of aged care providers:
- Not For Profit
- Privately Owned
- Supported Residential Services (SRS)
- Low Level Care Home
- Aging In Place
All of these provider types aim to offer quality aged care to the community. However, they structure their organisation differently and may have different values. By informing yourself about the differences, you can more easily choose a provider that meets your specific care needs.
Not-for-profit providers
Australia has quite a few not-for-profit aged care providers, which is a preferred type of provider for many families. Not-for-profit providers do make a profit but they reinvest it into their organisation. This enables them to improve services and continue to further their aged care mission. Not-for-profit aged care providers fall under the category of government-subsidised aged care providers and, as such, their care is subsidised by the Australian Government.
Privately owned providers
Private providers are also government-subsidised aged care providers. The difference is that they are for profit, instead of not-for-profit. If you are eligible for subsidised aged care services, you can choose from a wide variety of privately owned providers to meet your specific care needs.
Supported Residential Services (SRS)
SRS are non-subsidised aged care providers that are regulated by their relevant state or territory governments. These providers offer supported accommodation for aged people or people with disability in Queensland, New South Wales, ACT, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania.
SRS offer a variety of accommodation types and vary in the level of care that they offer. Anyone can apply and you do not need to be assessed. As a resident, you will pay a regular fee that includes:
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Care
SRS facilities are non-subsidised aged care facilities. This is important as it means you may not be eligible for aged care income support. Exemptions may apply for SRS residents needing a substantial level of care. Read more about SRS here.
Low level care home
Low level care offers support for aged people needing assistance with everyday tasks, like washing and dressing, meals, cleaning and laundry. This was once referred to as hostel care; however, the Australian Government no longer differentiates between low and high level care. Residential aged care residents simply receive the care that suits their specific needs, whether that be low level care or high level care.
This type of care is offered by government-subsidised aged care providers. You must be deemed eligible through an assessment to access this type of care.
Aging in place
Many aging Australians prefer to continue living independently for as long as possible. The aging in place model makes this possible. Rather than moving into a traditional residential aged care facility, you can secure a room in an aging in place type aged care that offers 24/7 nursing care.
Aging in place is not subsidised by the government, so you will need to pay the full cost of the room. This is a great option if you are not eligible for subsidised aged care but wish to maintain your independence while receiving care tailored to your needs.
How do I know which is the best type of aged care provider for me?
The first step to choosing the right aged care provider is to be informed about the different options. Now that you understand what’s available, you can have a look in your local area for suitable aged care providers. You need to consider your eligibility, as well as the type of care the provider offers and how much it charges for the services you require.
Aged Care Decisions can help you make informed decisions about your aged care journey. Our specialist placement team can answer all your questions about which aged care provider best suits your needs and help you navigate assessments and fee structures. Complete our quick and easy form or call us on 1300 775 870.
