Funding Options
Understanding Residential Aged Care Fees
Funding residential aged care should feel straightforward. We can help you understand fees, funding options, and next steps with transparency and support.
Find the Right Option for You
Before understanding fees, it helps to know which funding category you fall into. This determines how much support you can receive and what costs may apply.
Residential aged care funding in Australia is generally grouped into three categories. Your eligibility depends on your income and assets, and our team can guide you through this step with clarity and confidence.
3 funding types
1. Fully supported
2. Partially supported
3. Self-funded
For those with limited income and assets, the Australian Government covers most aged care costs.
Those seeking maximum financial support with minimal out-of-pocket expenses
You may receive some government support while contributing to certain care and accommodation costs.
Those with moderate assets or income
If your assets or income exceed the threshold, you’ll cover the full cost of your care and accommodation.
Those planning privately for aged care
Once you understand your funding category, the next step is to explore how fees are structured and what they include.
The four main types of fees
Residential aged care costs are generally made up of four components:
1. Basic daily care fee
The Basic Daily Care Fee is set by the Australian Government and covers daily living services such as:
Meals and nutrition
Cleaning and laundry
Lifestyle and
activity programs
Utilities and facility maintenance
2. Hotelling Supplement Contribution
Residents who can afford it will contribute towards some or all of the Hotelling Supplement. The government will continue to pay the rest — and will cover the full supplement for those who are unable to afford to contribute.
This contribution helps aged care homes meet the cost of everyday services like catering, cleaning, and gardening.
3. Non-Clinical Care Contribution (NCCC)
All clinical care costs in aged care homes are fully funded by the government. The NCCC covers non-clinical support only.
The NCCC covers everyday personal support such as bathing, mobility assistance, and lifestyle activities. Those who can afford it will contribute based on a means assessment.
Lifetime cap
Indexed · or after 4 years, whichever comes first
Lifetime cap
Indexed · or after 4 years, whichever comes first
The family home is exempt from means testing when a protected person — a spouse or dependent adult child — is residing in the home.
4. Accommodation payment
The accommodation payment relates to your room or suite.
There are three main options:
Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD)
A lump sum payment that is fully refundable to your estate when you leave the residence.
Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP)
A daily rental-style payment instead of paying a lump sum.
Combination Payment
A mix of part RAD and part DAP.
PRICING
Government support
& ACAT approval
To enter Residential Aged Care, you must receive approval from the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).
ACAT determines:
- Your eligibility for residential care
- The level of care required
Our Customer Service Team can assist you with:
- Understanding ACAT
- Connecting with assessment services
- Preparing documentation
Additional costs (if Applicable)
Additional costs
(if Applicable)
Some optional services may attract additional fees, depending on personal preference or selected room category.
We will always provide a clear explanation of any optional costs before admission.
Transparency is important to us. There are no hidden surprises.
How we help you navigate funding
We understand that funding aged care can feel complex.
Our team will:
- Explain the RAD and DAP options clearly
- Help you understand your means-tested assessment
- Provide written breakdowns of costs
- Answer questions without pressure
We are here to make the financial process feel structured and supported.
Contact Us
Let’s talk about your options
Understanding funding options is one of the most important parts of the decision-making process.
If you’re exploring Residential Aged Care in Camden or the surrounding areas, our team is here to provide clear and practical guidance.
FAQs
Funding Fees:
What you need to know
Do I have to sell my home to enter residential aged care?
Not necessarily. Your financial circumstances will determine your funding options. We recommend speaking with a financial adviser and our team for guidance.
What happens to the RAD when I leave?
The Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) is returned to the resident or their estate in accordance with government regulations.
Can I change from DAP to RAD later?
In some cases, yes. Our team can explain how payment structures can be adjusted.