You need a little extra help in order to keep living independently. So, you’ve applied for funding through MyAgedCare. That’s a great start! Unfortunately, it can take up to 12 months before you can access support services. What if you need help now? There are options. Keep reading to find out how to access support quickly. 

  1. If you need emergency care, don’t wait. 

If you need urgent healthcare, please contact your GP or call 000.

  1. Remember: MyAgedCare prioritises those with urgent needs.

If you need support quickly, it is very important that your MyAgedCare assessor knows this. During your application and assessment, be clear about your needs.
  • What is particularly difficult for you? 
  • What can’t you do independently anymore? 
Don’t downplay your situation or be vague. If you need help with something now, ensure your assessor understands that. If your situation has changed since your initial assessment and you suddenly need help, contact MyAgedCare on 1800 200 422. Tell them about this change in circumstance so that your funding can be prioritised.

  1. Ask for an Interim Package.

MyAgedCare offers Interim Packages, which provide support while you’re waiting for your permanent care package to be approved. Interim Packages offer support at a lower level but their wait times are often much faster than more extensive support packages. Your assessor will discuss this option with you. If you need to contact MyAgedCare about Interim Packages, you can call 1800 200 422.

  1. Contact Carer Gateway.

This is a service which provides short-term carers for urgent situations. If you need help while you’re waiting to access support services, Carer Gateway might be able to assist. They provide a service called ‘emergency respite care’. This service is used when the person who usually takes care of you suddenly cannot do so. In this situation, you can call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737. This is only a short-term solution.

  1. Explore non-government funded support.

If you’re waiting for your MyAgedCare package, you could explore self-funded support. If this is financially possible for you, it could be a great short-term or medium-term option. These services are not funded or regulated by the government and the full cost must be covered by you. You can often access this kind of service very quickly. There are lots of websites you can use to find aged care services. Here are a few to get you started:  It can be frustrating waiting for your MyAgedCare package to kick into action. However, if you need help now—there are things you can do. Don’t let living independently become a burden. Seek out the help you need.