When you are planning support, it helps to know what each amount means:
Even when your contribution is small or zero, the service still uses your budget. Ask your provider to show both the full cost and your share. The My Aged Care costs and contributions guide includes a fee estimator to help you get started.
Ongoing Support at Home funding is managed through quarterly budgets, with a portion set aside for care management. Equipment, home modifications and short-term care pathways have their own funding arrangements. Your decision letter and support plan explain your approval; the government funding overview explains the wider system.
Keep your decision letter, plan and any updates together. If you are unsure which funding can pay for a service, ask before arranging it.
Begin with the help you need most often. Ask your provider to write down each service, its price, how long the visit will be and how often it will happen. You should be able to see how the whole schedule fits your budget and what you will pay.
Since 1 October 2026, approved personal care has no participant contribution when you have available Support at Home funding. Its cost still comes from your budget. Read the official update.
Compare your provider’s statements with your agreed schedule. If a charge is unclear, ask about the service, date and amount, and keep a record of the explanation or correction.
If your needs change, talk with your provider about adjusting the schedule and what that will mean for your budget. Our pricing guide explains what to check when comparing costs.
If you are finding contributions difficult to manage, raise it early with your provider. You may be able to apply for financial hardship assistance through Services Australia. Its hardship information explains eligibility and how to apply.
Explore all aged care and Support at Home guides
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Information reviewed: 26 October 2026.
Services Australia uses your financial information to work out your contribution rates. If you receive a means-tested income support payment from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, contact DVA about your aged care costs. Read the cost-of-care guidance.
You do not pay a participant contribution for clinical supports. Contributions may apply to independence and everyday living services. Your own circumstances and any transition protections affect what you pay, so check your assessed outcome. The government contribution guide explains the rules.
Approved personal care delivered from 1 October 2026 has no participant contribution when Support at Home funds are available. It still uses your budget. Contributions can still apply to services delivered before that date. Read the personal care update.
Your budget pays for approved support. The service price is the full amount your provider charges, and your contribution is the part you pay yourself. Ask for both amounts when planning visits so you can see the cost to your budget and to you.
Speak with your provider about the costs you are finding difficult. You may be eligible for financial hardship assistance through Services Australia. Its hardship guide explains the application process.
