If you or someone you love needs extra support at home, you may be wondering how to register for My Aged Care. For many Australians, navigating the aged care system can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to begin or what happens after you apply.
The good news is that registering for My Aged Care is more straightforward than many people expect. Your My Aged Care registration is the first step towards accessing government-funded aged care services and arranging an assessment to determine what level of support you may be eligible for.
Once you’ve registered, you’ll be referred for a My Aged Care assessment through the Single Assessment System (SAS). The assessment helps determine whether you’re eligible for services such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), Support at Home, or residential aged care.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to register for My Aged Care, who is eligible, what information you’ll need, what happens after registering, and how to prepare for your assessment so you can move through the process with confidence.
Who can register for My Aged Care?
If you’re wondering whether you’re eligible to register for My Aged Care, it helps to first understand who can access government-funded aged care services. If you’re finding it harder to manage everyday tasks as you get older, or you’re supporting a loved one whose care needs are changing, it may be time to register. If you think you may be eligible, it’s worth starting your My Aged Care application as early as possible. Registering early can help avoid delays in accessing assessments and support when you need it.
In general, you may be eligible for a care needs assessment if you:
- are aged 65 or over
- are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person aged 50 or over
- are finding it increasingly difficult to manage everyday tasks due to reduced mobility, changes in your health or other age-related care needs.
This might include needing extra help with household chores, preparing meals, personal care, getting around safely or managing daily routines.
You don’t need to wait until you’re in crisis to seek support. Registering early can help you understand what services are available, give you time to explore your options and make informed decisions about your future care.
Step 1: How to register for My Aged Care
How to register for My Aged Care online or by phone
Registering with My Aged Care is the first step towards accessing government-funded aged care services. Whether you’re planning ahead or your circumstances have recently changed, creating your My Aged Care record starts the assessment process.
There are two ways to register for My Aged Care. Whether you choose to register online or by phone, both methods begin the same My Aged Care registration process and lead to the same assessment pathway:
- Online through the My Aged Care website by creating an account and completing your application.
- If you’d prefer to speak with someone, you can register for My Aged Care by calling the My Aged Care phone number (1800 200 422). A representative will guide you through the application and answer any questions you may have.
Registering with My Aged Care is free. If you’re helping a parent, partner or loved one, you can also assist them with their My Aged Care registration or act on their behalf with the appropriate consent.
Information you’ll need before you register
Before you register for My Aged Care, it’s helpful to gather a few important details. Having this information ready can make your My Aged Care application quicker, reduce delays and ensure your assessment can be arranged as soon as possible.
You may be asked to provide:
- your Medicare number
- contact details
- your GP’s details
- information about your health and medical conditions
- details of any support you currently receive from family, friends or other service providers.
If you’d like a checklist of what to expect before your assessment, download Elder Folks’ free Guide to Getting an Aged Care Assessment. It’s a helpful resource to refer to before and after your appointment.
What happens after registering for My Aged Care?
Once you’ve completed your My Aged Care registration, you’ll usually be contacted to arrange your assessment. While waiting times vary depending on demand and your location, most people are contacted within a couple of weeks, with assessments often taking place within four to six weeks.
If your health or circumstances change while you’re waiting, it’s important to let My Aged Care know, as this may affect the priority of your assessment.
The next step is your My Aged Care assessment, where a trained assessor will discuss your daily living, health, support needs and goals to determine what government-funded services you’re eligible to receive.
Step 2: Your My Aged Care assessment
After you’ve registered for My Aged Care, the next step is completing an aged care assessment. This assessment helps determine the level of support you need and which government-funded services you may be eligible to receive.
Most assessments take place in your home, although they can also be completed via telehealth, over the phone or at another suitable location if required.
Your assessment will be completed by a trained assessor through the Australian Government’s Single Assessment System (SAS). You may still hear people refer to an “ACAT assessment”, but the Single Assessment System now delivers aged care assessments nationally.
What to expect
Your My Aged Care assessment is an opportunity to discuss your daily life, health and support needs. The assessment isn’t a test—it’s simply designed to understand your circumstances and determine what government-funded support may be appropriate.
During the assessment, you’ll be asked about:
- your health and medical conditions
- your mobility and ability to complete daily tasks
- your living arrangements and support network
- the assistance you currently receive
- your personal goals and priorities.
Your assessor may also speak with your GP, family member or carer (with your permission) to gain a clearer understanding of your needs.
How to prepare
It’s normal to feel a little unsure before your assessment. Remember, there’s no test to pass. The goal is simply to understand your needs and recommend the right support.
Before your appointment, have the following ready:
- Medicare card
- current medications
- medical conditions
- details of any support services you receive
- any questions you’d like to ask.
If possible, consider having a trusted family member or friend with you. They can provide additional information and help you remember any questions you want to ask.
Step 3: Receiving your outcome
What happens after your My Aged Care assessment?
After your assessment, you’ll receive your outcome and information about the government-funded services you may be eligible for. Depending on your circumstances, this may include the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), Support at Home or other aged care services.
You’ll also receive information about your next steps, including any referral codes you need to access approved providers.
If you’d like to learn more about what happens after your assessment, read our guides on CHSP and Support at Home.
Frequently asked questions: How to register for My Aged Care
Is My Aged Care registration free?
Yes. Registering for My Aged Care is completely free. There is no cost to create a My Aged Care record or complete your initial assessment.
How long does it take to register for My Aged Care?
The registration itself usually only takes a short time once you have your information ready. After registering, you’ll typically be contacted within a couple of weeks to arrange your assessment, although timeframes vary depending on demand.
Can a family member register someone for My Aged Care?
Yes. A family member, friend or representative can assist with the registration process and, with permission, communicate with My Aged Care on behalf of the older person.
What happens after I register for My Aged Care?
After your registration is complete, you’ll be contacted to arrange an aged care assessment. The assessment helps determine what government-funded aged care services you may be eligible for, including Support at Home, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme or residential aged care.
Do I need an ACAT assessment before registering?
No. Registering with My Aged Care is always the first step. Once you’ve registered, My Aged Care will arrange the appropriate assessment based on your circumstances.
Taking the next step
If you’re wondering how to register for My Aged Care, the first step is simply creating your My Aged Care record. Once you’ve registered, you’ll be guided through the assessment process to determine the support you’re eligible to receive.
Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a recent change in health or independence, taking action early can make the process smoother and give you more time to explore your options.
If you’re ready to take the next step or need help navigating the process, contact the Elder Folks team. We’ll help you understand your options and find the support that’s right for you.
