How to Get a My Aged Care Assessment in the Northern Rivers
How to Get a My Aged Care Assessment in the Northern Rivers
Before you can access government-funded aged care services, you need an assessment. For people in Ballina, Lismore, and the Northern Rivers, the process is the same as everywhere else, but knowing what to expect makes it a lot less daunting.
What the Assessment Is
A My Aged Care assessment is a home visit from a trained assessor who has a conversation with you about your daily life, your health, and what you want to be able to do. It is not a test. It is not a judgment. It is a genuine effort to understand your situation so the right level of support can be approved for you.
From 1 November 2025, these assessments are carried out by authorised comprehensive assessment organisations, replacing the former ACAT system. The process is the same, the name has changed.
Source: myagedcare.gov.au/assessment
Step 1: Make Contact
Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm; Saturday, 10am to 2pm) or visit myagedcare.gov.au. A family member can call on your behalf with your permission. You will be asked a few questions about your situation to confirm which type of assessment is needed.
Step 2: The Home Assessment
An assessor will arrange a time to visit you at home, or in hospital if that is where you currently are. The conversation will cover what daily tasks you find difficult, your health conditions, your living situation, your support network, and your personal goals. Bring a family member or trusted person if it helps you feel comfortable. Ask questions, you deserve clear answers.
Step 3: Your Outcome
After the assessment, you receive a letter with your outcome. Under Support at Home, if approved you are assigned one of eight classification levels with a quarterly budget, from $2,682.75 at Level 1 to $19,526.59 at Level 8. Interim funding at 60% of your approved level is available while you wait for full allocation.
If you disagree with your outcome, you have the right to request a review.
Source: myagedcare.gov.au/managing-your-support-home-budget
Step 4: Choose Your Provider
Once approved, the choice of provider is yours. You are not assigned to anyone. Greater Support provides aged care services across Ballina, Lismore, and the Northern Rivers. If you want to talk through what support could look like for you, we are here. No obligation, just an honest conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a My Aged Care assessment take?
The initial screening call takes around 20 to 30 minutes. An in-home ACAT assessment is usually one to two hours. Wait times for the assessment can be several weeks in regional areas.
Can a family member call My Aged Care on someone’s behalf?
Yes, with the person’s permission. If the person cannot communicate easily, a family member or authorised representative can contact My Aged Care for them.
What happens after my My Aged Care assessment?
If approved, you receive a support level recommendation. You then choose a provider and begin the intake process. Greater Support can guide you through next steps once your assessment is complete.
A Few Tips Before Your Assessment
Have a list of your medications and health conditions ready. Think beforehand about what daily tasks feel hardest. Be honest about how much help you already rely on, including from family. And remember, the assessor is there to help you access support, not to catch you out.
