Nursing Homes are for high-level care residents requiring 24-hour care provided by registered nurses.
Hostels are suitable for low-level care where residents are assisted with some daily living activities such as medications and showering. Personal care assistants are always available to assist with residents needs.

However, the Department of Health and Ageing is encouraging the concept of "ageing-in-place" which allows residents entering care to remain in the same aged care facility even if their care needs increase.