Aged care guide
Aged care costs calculator
Moving into a care home is a big decision, so it’s important to gain an understanding of the specific fees associated with your care and accommodation.
How much does aged care cost?
Residential aged care fees can vary, depending on the type of care you require, the home you choose, and your financial situation. We always recommend seeking financial advice before moving in, so you can be certain you’re choosing the right payment option for you.
To help make sure that care is affordable for everyone, the Australian Government calculates and regulates maximum daily fees and sets limits on how much you can be asked to pay for your care.
My aged care calculator
Your typical aged care costs cover your basic daily fee, a means tested care fee, and an accommodation fee, plus any additional services you may require.
Use the aged care fee estimator below to get an idea of your expected costs based on the home and room type you’re looking at.
For respite short-stay care, you’ll only need to pay the basic daily fee and any additional services such as Sapphire Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are accommodation costs and do they apply?
In addition to your daily fees, you may be asked to pay for or contribute in part to your new accommodation.
Your aged care fees for permanent care may also include an accommodation payment. This payment refers to the price of your chosen room and will vary across homes.
The amount you’re required to pay is based on individual financial circumstances (assets and income), determined by Services Australia upon completing a means assessment.
Depending on the means assessment outcome, you may be required to pay all or contribute to the cost of your accommodation. Some residents may have their accommodation paid for by the Australian Government. The means test is not compulsory to complete, but if you choose not to, you’ll be required to pay the full room price.
If you have questions about the affordability of your aged care accommodation costs, ask us about government-funded accommodation options.
This fee does not apply to respite short-stay care.
Is it compulsory to carry out a Combined Assets and Income Assessment?
No, it’s not compulsory to complete an “Aged Care calculation of your cost of care”. For those who choose not to complete this assessment, you’ll be charged the maximum means tested care fee and the full accommodation price.
How long is a Means Assessment valid?
If the assessment is completed before you enter a care home, it is valid for 120 days from the date that you receive your letter from Services Australia.
Will I receive any government funding?
This depends upon an individual’s means assessment. It’s determined by Services Australia after completing a “Aged Care calculation of your cost of care”.
The Government will subsidise payments for people who can’t afford residential aged care fees, so depending upon your personal situation you may be classified as a ‘Fully Supported Resident’ or a ‘Partially Supported Resident’ and receive some government financial assistance.
If I choose to pay with a Refundable Accommodation Deposit, is this completely refundable when I leave my care home?
Yes, the amount that you deposit as a lump sum will be completely refundable when you leave the aged care home. This does not apply if you have opted for the drawdown payment option or elected to have some other fees taken from your Refundable Accommodation Deposit.
How much does respite care cost?
You will be required to pay the basic daily fee and an additional services fee if this applies. You have up to 63 respite days available in a financial year to enable carer's to have a break or be away for other reasons, but most of our homes limit respite to two weeks at a time.
Should I seek financial advice?
Yes. It is always recommended to seek advice from an accredited financial adviser who can guide you through the financial decisions relating to aged care.
Bupa’s Financial Guidance Panel provides options for accredited financial advisors who have completed comprehensive training in aged care financial advice.