Navigating the Australian aged care system can be overwhelming, especially when a loved one begins needing more support. At Support Services Connect Australia (SSCA), we understand how confusing aged care assessments, provider selection, and care planning can be. That’s why we offer a free, expert Care Finding service to guide you through every step of the process—including becoming a My Aged Care representative.
This guide outlines everything you need to know to support an elderly family member by becoming their official My Aged Care representative, while highlighting how SSCA can help simplify the journey.
What is a My Aged Care Representative?
A My Aged Care representative is someone legally authorised to act on behalf of an older person to manage aged care matters. This can include:
- Communicating with My Aged Care and service providers
- Making or assisting with decisions about care
- Accessing and updating personal information
- Helping with assessments, approvals, and provider referrals
Representatives are usually family members or friends, but can also include carers or professionals.
Types of Representatives
There are two categories of representatives in My Aged Care:
- Regular Representative
This person can assist the older person and must consult with them before making decisions. They need the older person’s consent to share information.
- Authorised Representative
This is needed when an older person no longer has the capacity to make decisions. Legal documentation such as Enduring Power of Attorney or a Guardianship Order is required to assign this status.
Who Can Become a Representative?
You can become a representative if you are:
- A family member or close friend
- A carer or guardian
- A support person for an older person with limited English
- A professional acting on behalf of a client (e.g. from a care organisation)
If you’re not sure whether you meet the eligibility criteria, SSCA can help you clarify this at no cost.
Why Become a Representative?
Many older Australians need help managing their aged care options, especially if they:
- Live with cognitive decline, dementia, or a medical condition
- Are uncomfortable navigating digital platforms
- Speak English as a second language
- Are overwhelmed by paperwork and provider options
Becoming a representative ensures that your loved one receives timely, appropriate, and high-quality care. It also means that you can legally assist them in making key decisions.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a My Aged Care Representative
Step 1: Complete the Appointment of a Support Person Form
Download and complete the official form here: Appointment of a Support Person (PDF)
You can fill it out on your computer or print and complete by hand.
Step 2: Check the Person’s My Aged Care Status
If the person is NOT registered:
You can register them for My Aged Care and request a representative status during the application process.
You’ll need:
- Their Medicare card and contact details
- Your details and Medicare card
- Their consent
- The completed form
You can register online or call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.
If the person IS registered:
You have several options:
- Log into their My Aged Care Online Account to add yourself in the Support Networks section
- Call 1800 200 422 (have both Medicare cards ready)
- Ask the assessor to help you become a representative during the ACAT assessment
- Visit a Services Australia centre in person
- Post the completed form to: My Aged Care, PO Box 1237, Runaway Bay QLD 4216
SSCA can guide you through these options to save you time and confusion.
Required Documents for Authorised Representatives
If the older person lacks capacity, you’ll need:
- Enduring Power of Attorney
- Guardianship Order or Advanced Health Directive
- A doctor’s letter confirming incapacity (optional but helpful)
- A signed declaration explaining your role
These documents prove your legal right to make decisions on behalf of the person.
FAQs About Being a Representative
Can someone have more than one representative?
Yes, a person can appoint multiple representatives, each with specific responsibilities.
Can representatives be updated or removed?
Yes. Changes can be made via the My Aged Care online account or by calling 1800 200 422.
What’s the difference between a representative and an agent?
Agents can access and update records but cannot make care decisions. They typically work in a professional capacity (e.g. care coordinators).
How SSCA Helps You Through the Process
At SSCA, we offer more than just advice—we walk the journey with you. Our Care Finding experts:
- Explain aged care terms in plain English
- Help you complete the required forms
- Advise whether you should apply as a regular or authorised representative
- Connect you with services and providers matched to your needs
- Ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines or paperwork
We also support you in:
- Registering with My Aged Care
- Applying for a Home Care Package
- Understanding your rights and responsibilities
- Selecting a provider that meets your budget and location
Our services are 100% free and independent.
Contact SSCA for Free Help Today
Don’t navigate aged care alone. Whether you’re helping a parent, grandparent, or friend, SSCA is here to support you from start to finish.
Get in touch:
- Email: info@supportservicesconnect.com.au
- Call us: 03 9123 4560
Let SSCA help you make aged care simpler, safer, and stress-free.