Navigating Australia’s Home Care Package Program can feel overwhelming—especially when terms like “approved” and “assigned” come up. These two words might sound similar, but they mean very different things in the aged care system. At Support Services Connect Australia (SSCA), we’re here to simplify the process and ensure you understand each step on your journey to receiving the care you deserve.
With over 25 years of experience in the aged care sector, SSCA provides free, expert Care Finding services to help older Australians and their families confidently choose the right provider—without the confusion or stress.
What Does “Approved” Mean in the Home Care Package Process?
Being approved for a Home Care Package means you’ve completed your ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) assessment, and the government has recognised that you are eligible to receive a package.
You will receive an approval letter confirming:
- The level of support you are eligible for (Level 1–4)
- That you have been placed in the national priority queue
🟡 Important: Approval does not mean immediate access to services. Think of it as getting a ticket to enter the queue based on your assessed care needs and urgency.
What Does “Assigned” a Home Care Package Mean?
Once you’re assigned a Home Care Package, you move from the queue to active care. You’ll receive a formal assignment letter from My Aged Care, which includes:
- Your unique referral code (required by your chosen provider)
- A 56-day window to enter into a Home Care Agreement with a provider
This is your signal to start care—fast. If you don’t act within the 56-day timeframe, your package may be withdrawn and reassigned to someone else in need.
The Waiting Period: Between Approval and Assignment
This is often the most frustrating part for families. Depending on the demand for services and the urgency of your care needs, the wait between approval and assignment can range from several months to over a year.
💡 Tip: If your health situation changes during this time, you can request a reassessment to update your care level and possibly speed up assignment.
Why Choose a Provider Before You’re Assigned?
SSCA strongly recommends choosing a provider before you are assigned a package. About three months prior, My Aged Care will send you a letter encouraging you to prepare. This is your opportunity to:
- Compare provider fees and services
- Evaluate care models
- Understand the fine print
How SSCA Can Help
At SSCA, our free Care Finding service is designed to guide you through this process with clarity and confidence. We:
- Match you with trusted Home Care Package providers based on your needs and preferences
- Explain government terms in plain language
- Offer ongoing support until you’re receiving care
We partner with reputable government-funded, not-for-profit, and private providers—chosen based on client feedback, service quality, and transparency.
Let SSCA remove the guesswork from your Home Care journey so you can focus on what matters most: your health and independence.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. If you’ve been approved for a Home Care Package or are nearing assignment, contact SSCA today. Our experienced team is ready to help you make informed decisions and access the care you deserve—with no cost and no obligation.