Aged Care Information Sessions
The rules surrounding almost all aspects of aged care, both in terms of in-home and residential care, are complex and understanding them is made all the more difficult by the fact that decisions regarding family members may need to be made urgently. Furthermore, online research can lead to even more confusion because individual situations are often unique and there is a lack of specific information about how rules are applied. Finally, apart from these considerations, families may find that Centrelink resources are difficult to access in a timely manner.
In that context we are pleased to indicate that "information only" sessions, run on a fixed-fee basis, are now available to individuals and families, providing the following assistance:
- Factual Information about how the aged care means test works, what forms are required, and how Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) assess income and assets for aged care purposes.
- Provide guidance about the process for applying for aged care, the types of fees involved, and how the government determines eligibility for subsidies or accommodation contributions.
- Assistance in understanding how fees in aged care are calculated, and assistance in the completion of relevant Centrelink forms.
These sessions are run by an Accredited Aged Care Professional, with over 20 years of prior experience as a financial adviser, now specialising in aged care and with a strong understanding of Centrelink means-testing and other processes, with a focus on delivering clear, plain English explanations without product recommendations and any sales pressure. This allows families to focus solely on understanding their options – including whether they should seek specific financial planning advice prior to making any decisions.
Some areas of particular focus include the following:
Home Care Affordability
Recognising that "home is the best place to remain as long as possible," it is explained how individuals can maximise government support and minimise out-of-pocket expenses for in-home care to support independent living at home for longer.
Families are shown how home care package fees are calculated to optimise government contributions. This is especially relevant given the Albanese Government's commitment to releasing a record 107,000 home care packages in the next two years, with 1.4 million older people potentially accessing the "Support at Home" program by 2035, benefiting both pensioners and self-funded retirees. This support may allow you to stay in your home longer and avoid (or defer) the need to move into residential care.
Aged Care Means Testing
Understanding how means-testing operates, and the impact of complex Centrelink rules and fee calculations, is key to managing aged care fees. Families are helped understand how factors like income, assets, different superannuation types, reverse mortgages or participation in the Home Equity Access Schemes (HEAS) impact assessments, and whether grandfathering rules apply in particular situations.
Practicalities and Fees
Two consultation types are available:
- If no calculations are required a Standard Consult at $193 may be suitable, or
- If means-testing calculations are required in relation to Age Care fee calculations, a longer Premium Consult at $385 provides additional time.
Consultations are provided online through video or phone meetings, available Australia-wide. A video meeting can be beneficial to see what is being discussed during a meeting with screen sharing available.
If you would like to arrange an Information Session please complete the Inquiry form below providing details of the type of session you would like to book and some background regarding your circumstances and the areas in which you would like assistance.