Home Care FAQs
Got a question? We have listed some of the most commonly asked questions below.
For more information call us with your enquiry.
You can also visit the My Aged Care FAQ page.
We understand that it can be stressful navigating and waiting for a Home Care Package, especially when you need timely support.
To get the support you need while navigating this process, you can purchase in-home care services privately from Aunty Grace through our Self-funded Services option. This means you receive services immediately.
Unless you are a full Pensioner, you may be asked to pay an Income Tested Care Fee towards your care. The Department of Human Services (Centrelink) will assess your income and notify you and Aunty Grace of how much you need to pay. Your income is reviewed by Centrelink quarterly. Providers cannot waive or discount this fee.
To get and estimate please view the government’s ITCF calculator:
https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/fee-estimator
ITCF contribution lifetime caps are set from the date you start receiving a Home Care Package. The lifetime cap follows you as your services and care levels change, or if you move providers. Centrelink will advise you if you reach your lifetime cap.
Once you have been through the application process and allocated a Home Care Package, you will need to work with an approved provider to select the specific services and additional support that you need. This is called a Care Plan.
A Care Plan is tailored to your individual needs and wants. So, the answer to the question ‘What can my Home Care Package be used for?’ is unique to everyone. Everything is also specified in your home care agreement, so that you and any involved loved ones have a clear understanding of what to expect.
For more information, view our article that outlines the Government guidelines on what can and cannot be included.
A Referral Code is a unique number that you receive when you are assigned a Home Care Package.
You will need to provide this Referral Code to your chosen Provider so they are able to trigger your funding. It also enables your chosen Provider to access the details from your ACAT/ACAS assessment and ensure that they can meet your specific care needs.
Therefore, we request your Referral Code prior to accepting you as a client. We like to view these documents and ensure that we can meet your unique care needs. Once this has been confirmed and you are keen to come on board, we accept your Referral Code and you become a valued client.
Your Referral Code is a unique code. Whether you have just received your Home Care Package or have been with another Provider and are wanting to switch.
Finding your Code
New Home Care Packages
If you have a new Home Care Package you can find your Referral Code on the letter you received from My Aged Care assigning you your package. If you can’t find your letter, you can call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 and simply ask for them for it.
Switching Providers
If you’re switching Providers, you will need to get your code reactivated. This is because when you signed with your previous Provider they would have activated your code. All you need to do is call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 and ask them to do it.
