Changes coming from 1 July for assessments for in-home care

Published on 25 June 2024

Following the Australian Government changes to aged care, the Surf Coast Shire Council is no longer able to deliver in-home assessments of people seeking Commonwealth Home Support Program services.

From 1 July the Regional Assessment Service will be carried out by government-appointed contractors.

People seeking assessment should contact My Aged Care to be connected to one of the new providers.

“We appreciate this might be an adjustment for some people, but the change is part of national aged care reforms and it seeks to streamline assessment services,” Cr Gary Allen said.

“Assessments will continue, and we encourage people to work through My Aged Care as a first step with any inquiries or to connect with support.

“The Council will be providing some assistance to help ensure that the transition goes smoothly.

“While we can no longer deliver assessment services, the Council has introduced a new Aged Community Connector Officer role to help people navigating the new arrangements during the next 12 months.

“The Council will also be continuing to play a key role in supporting people to age well in the place where they live, through implementation of our Age Friendly Strategy.”

Following the Australian Government changes to delivery of aged care, the Council resolved in 2019 to adopt a Positive Ageing Reform Readiness Plan which included five actions.

Transition away from delivery of Regional Assessment Service is the last of the five actions to be undertaken.

People can contact My Aged Care via 1800 200 422 or myagedcare.gov.au