Eligibility & Application | Step-by-Step Guide by RusCare

Your Guide to Accessing Personalised In-Home Care Services

At RusCare, we are committed to making the process of accessing Home Care Packages as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

This guide will walk you through the eligibility criteria and application steps to help you receive the support you need to live independently at home.

Am I Eligible for a Home Care Package?

To be eligible for a Home Care Package, you must meet certain criteria set by the Australian Government:

Age Requirement:
- Generally, you should be aged 65 years or older (or 50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people).
Need for Support:
- You require coordinated services to help you with daily activities and to continue living safely at home.
Assessment Approval:
- You must undergo a comprehensive assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) and be approved for a Home Care Package.

Note: There are no citizenship or residency restrictions; however, services are prioritised for those with the greatest need.

Understanding the Assessment Process

The assessment is a crucial step to determine your specific care needs and the level of support required.

Contact My Aged Care:
- Call 1800 200 422 or visit the My Aged Care website to register your interest.
Initial Screening:
- You’ll undergo a short phone interview to discuss your current situation and needs.
Face-to-Face Assessment:
- An ACAT assessor will schedule a home visit to conduct a comprehensive evaluation.
Outcome Notification:
- After the assessment, you’ll receive a letter detailing the outcome, including the approved level of care.

Tips for the Assessment:

Be Honest and Open:
- Discuss all the challenges you face in your daily life.
Have a Support Person Present:
- Consider having a family member or friend with you during the assessment.
Prepare a List:
- Write down any questions or concerns you have beforehand.

Levels of Home Care Packages

The assessment will determine which of the four levels of Home Care Packages best suits your needs:

Level 1 – Basic Care Needs
Level 2 – Low-Level Care Needs
Level 3 – Intermediate Care Needs
Level 4 – High-Level Care Needs

The level assigned affects the amount of funding available for your care services.

How to Apply for a Home Care Package

Step 1: Register with My Aged Care

Phone: Call 1800 200 422
Online: Visit the My Aged Care website

Step 2: Undergo the ACAT Assessment

An assessor will contact you to arrange a suitable time for a home visit.

Step 3: Receive Your Assessment Outcome

You’ll get a letter confirming your eligibility and approved care level.

Step 4: Get Assigned a Package

Waiting Period:
- There may be a wait time before a package becomes available. You’ll be placed on a national waiting list.
Interim Support:
- Consider using the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) for basic assistance while you wait.

Step 5: Choose RusCare as Your Service Provider

Contact RusCare:
- Call us at (03) 9793 5955 or email reception@ruscare.com.au
Sign an Agreement:
- We’ll discuss your needs and formalise an agreement to deliver your care services.

Step 6: Develop Your Personalised Care Plan

Our team will work with you to create a care plan tailored to your preferences and goals.

Step 7: Commence Services

Start receiving high-quality, personalised care from our dedicated team.

Our team can guide you through each step to ensure a smooth process.

Understanding Costs and Funding

Government Subsidy:

The Australian Government subsidises a significant portion of the Home Care Package cost.

Your Contribution:

Basic Daily Fee:
- RusCare currently does not charge this fee.
Income-Tested Care Fee:
- Determined by Services Australia based on your income assessment.
Additional Services Fee:
- For any extra services you choose beyond what your package covers.

Income Assessment:

Complete an income assessment through Services Australia.

Financial Hardship Assistance:

If you’re experiencing financial hardship, you may apply for a reduction in fees.

Our team can guide you through understanding and managing the costs involved.

How RusCare Supports You Through the Process

Application Assistance:
- We help you navigate the My Aged Care registration and assessment steps.
Advocacy:
- Our staff can communicate with assessors on your behalf if needed.
Translators and Interpreters:
- Multilingual support to ensure clear communication throughout the process.
Information Sessions:
- Attend our free sessions to learn more about Home Care Packages and services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will I have to wait for a Home Care Package?

Wait times vary based on the demand and your approved level. Higher-level care packages may have longer wait times. We recommend accessing interim support through CHSP or private services during this period.

Can I choose my service provider?

Yes, you have the freedom to select any approved provider, including RusCare. You can also change providers if your needs or preferences change.

What if my circumstances change after the assessment?

If your care needs increase or decrease, you can request a new assessment to adjust your care level accordingly.

Is there an age limit to access Home Care Packages?

While the program primarily supports older Australians, there are exceptions for younger people with specific needs. Contact My Aged Care for more information.

Contact Us

Ready to Begin Your Home Care Journey?

Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way.

From understanding eligibility to commencing services, we’ll ensure a smooth and empowering experience.

Phone: (03) 9793 5955
Email: reception@ruscare.com.au
Address: 13 Conway Street, Dandenong, VIC, 3175

Further Resources

My Aged Care – Home Care Packages
Official government information on HCP, including application steps and services.
Visit My Aged Care HCP Page
Services Australia – Income Assessments
Learn about income assessments and fees related to Home Care Packages.
Visit Services Australia