Aged Care Costs

Understanding aged care costs is the first step in planning your journey. Costs can seem complex, but they mainly consist of three parts:

1. Basic Daily Fee

• Covers everyday living expenses such as meals, laundry, cleaning, and utilities.

• Typically calculated as a percentage of the Age Pension (currently around 85%).

• Mandatory for all residential aged care residents.

2. Means-Tested Care Fee

• Determined by your income and assets.

• Helps cover additional care needs not included in the basic fee.

• Assessed by Centrelink.

• May be reduced or waived for pensioners or those with limited means.

3. Additional Services or Fees

• Optional extras for comfort and convenience:

  • Private rooms or suites

  • Lifestyle programs, outings, and social activities

  • Upgraded meals or personal care services

• Not mandatory—choose what suits your lifestyle.

Ask your provider for a full breakdown of all fees. Transparency is required by law, so you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for.