Aged Care Home Costs & Fees

Understanding the costs of moving into an aged care home is an important step in planning for the future. Fees can vary depending on the type of accommodation, level of care required, and your personal financial situation. Knowing what to expect will help you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses.

At My Care Options, we simplify the process by explaining the different fees and helping you compare options that fit your needs and budget.

Main Types of Aged Care Home Fees:

1. Basic Daily Fee
   A standard contribution towards your day-to-day living costs such as meals, cleaning, laundry, and utilities. Set by the Australian Government, this fee is usually a percentage of the single Age Pension.
2. Means-Tested Care Fee
   An additional fee some residents may pay based on an income and assets assessment. This helps cover the cost of personal and clinical care services.
3. Accommodation Payment
   Covers the cost of your room and shared spaces. You can choose to pay as:

• Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD)– a lump sum payment, fully refundable when you leave.
• Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP)– ongoing daily payments.
• A combination of both RAD and DAP.

4. Extra or Additional Services Fee
   Optional upgrades for enhanced services, premium meals, or higher accommodation standards.

How Fees Are Determined in Australia

The Australian Government subsidises part of aged care costs, and the amount you pay depends on your financial assessment. The more you can contribute, the less the government subsidy will cover — and vice versa.

How My Care Options Can Help

We’re not an aged care provider — we’re here to guide you through the fee structures, government assessments, and payment options. Our role is to:

• Explain each fee in plain language.
• Help you prepare for the financial assessment.
• Compare aged care homes that fit your care needs and budget.

Get Clarity on Aged Care Costs

The right aged care home should offer comfort and quality — without financial uncertainty. Let us help you understand your options so you can move forward with confidence.