Are you or a loved one considering residential aged care but feeling overwhelmed by the fees and charges? At Scalabrini Communities, we believe transparency is key. You might be surprised to learn just how affordable quality care can be once you understand the different fees, payment options, and government supports available.
Government Support Levels
Your level of financial assistance depends on your assets and income. Under the current system, there are three categories:
- Fully Supported: Assets below $61,500 – the Australian Government covers your full accommodation cost.
- Partially Supported: Assets between $61,500 and $206,663.20 – you pay a contribution towards accommodation, with the Government covering the remainder.
- Non-Supported: Assets above $206,663.20 – you cover 100% of accommodation and care costs yourself.
Understanding Fees & Charges
Our team is always here to help and guide you through the processes and fee structure. As for basis, even with support, there are four main fees you should know about:
- Accommodation Payment
- Covers building maintenance, communal spaces and your room.
- Payment options vary by support level.
- Basic Daily Care Fee
- A fixed daily amount (currently 85% of the single aged pension) for meals, cleaning and laundry.
- Means-Tested Care Fee
- An additional, income-and-asset-based contribution toward your care needs, capped at $34,311.23 per year or $82,347.13 over a lifetime.
- Additional Services Fee
- Optional extras like premium meals, in-room TVs or lifestyle activities; charged only if you opt in.
*These figures are determined according to the thresholds established by the Australian Government for the period from 20 March to 20 September 2025.
Flexible Payment Options
For those in the Partially or Non-Supported categories, Scalabrini Communities offers three accommodation payment choices:
- Lump Sum (Refundable Accommodation Deposit – RAD / Refundable Accommodation Contribution – RAC)
- Daily Payment (Daily Accommodation Payment – DAP / Daily Accommodation Contribution – DAC)
- Combination of both, so you can tailor payments to your financial situation.
How to Access Support
To qualify for residential care and any associated subsidies, you’ll need:
- Aged Care Assessment – ACAT: An Aged Care Assessment Team review determines your care needs (this process will evolve after 1 November 2025).
- Financial Assessment: Submit your income and asset details to Services Australia to establish your subsidy level.
For more details on the assessment process, visit My Aged Care.
Peace of Mind at Scalabrini
At Scalabrini Communities, cost is only part of the equation. We’re committed to delivering compassionate, person-centred care with flexibility and support even if there is a financial constraint so you and your family can rest easy knowing your loved one is supported with dignity and respect.
Learn More
If you’re exploring residential aged care options, our team is here to walk you through every step:
- Call us on 1800 722 522
- Email admin@scalabrini.com.au
- Book a tour at your nearest Scalabrini residential community
Discover how Scalabrini Communities combines affordability, quality and compassion to create a place you can truly call home.
