The One Step Every Retiree Must Take Now- Register with My Aged Care  

If you are a self-funded retiree or supporting a parent who may need aged care in the future, there is one important step that matters most: 

Register with My Aged Care and complete an assessment early. 

Many people delay registering because they feel they are ‘not ready yet’. They may still be independent, active, and managing at home or feel that they are not entitled to any support due to their income.  

Unfortunately, aged care does not work on readiness or intention. It works on assessments, approvals, and waiting periods. 

Often, families wait until care is urgently needed, only to discover there is no way to fast-track the system. Assessments, provider availability and funding approvals all take time, regardless of the situation. This is something we continue to see when families reach out needing immediate support.’ 

Why registering early matters 

Registering with My Aged Care and completing an assessment does not mean you must accept services straight away. It simply means you are ‘in the system’. 

By doing this early, you give yourself options: 

• You establish eligibility before care becomes urgent 

• You avoid repeated assessments later 

• You can increase support gradually as needs change 

• You reduce stress for yourself and your family 

Even accessing a small amount of help, such as meals, cleaning, or gardening, can make future transitions smoother. 

How the Process Works  

For retirees looking to receive care at home, the process typically follows these steps: 

Aged care assessments have recently been simplified through the introduction of the Single Assessment System (SAS). Previously, assessments were conducted by separate services (ACAT or ACAS in Victoria), but the SAS now provides one consistent process, whether you need in-home support or residential care. This means a single assessment is all that’s needed, making it easier to plan ahead and access the right services as your needs change. Getting into the system early ensures you are prepared and gives you more options for the future.

Home care options are also available for self-funded retirees 

Once registered and assessed, most self-funded retirees will fall into one of two pathways: 

• Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP): Entry-level, pay-per-service support for people who are largely independent and need occasional help. 

• Support at Home: A coordinated care budget that allows services to increase over time as care needs become more regular or complex. 

Both options require registration and assessment first. 

The most important takeaway – Register on My Aged Care and Request an Aged Care Assessment 

If you do nothing else, register with My Aged Care and request an assessment. Waiting removes choice. Starting early protects it. 

If you would like help understanding the process or what happens after assessment, we encourage you to book an aged care information session.  Our aged care financial advisors can help guide you through the next steps.  Please complete the form below to schedule a confidential aged care discussion. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: The information is general only and has been prepared without consideration of your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any decisions, you should consider the appropriateness of your personal investment objectives, financial situation or individual needs. We recommend you speak to your financial adviser, registered tax agent or legal adviser before making any decisions based on this information.  

Want to learn more? Download Our FREE Aged Care Guide!

To understand more about the aged care process, the fees and key considerations, please complete the form below to access our Aged Care Planning Guide.

If you need further assistance, please reach out, our Morrows Advisors are more than happy to help you and your loved ones.