Cost guide · Updated April 2026
How much do aged care cost in Australia? (2026)
Complete 2026 cost guide for aged care in Australia. Price ranges by service, hidden fees, cost-saving tips, and average fees in each capital city.
Written by Best Aged Care Australia editorial team · Updated 15 April 2026 · 4 min read
How much do aged care cost in Australia in 2026?
Residential aged care costs include a Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) of $400k-$1.2M (returned when you leave), the Basic Daily Care Fee of $61.96/day (paid by everyone), a means-tested care fee of 0-$32,718/year based on income and assets, and optional extra services fees. Total annual cost ranges from $30,000 (low-means residents) to $90,000+ (premium homes). In-home care via Home Care Packages is much cheaper: $7,500-$61,000/year depending on level.
Pricing data compiled from 5 providers across 6 service categories, updated April 2026.
★ Key takeaways
- ✓ Typical price range in Australia: $30 and $61,000.
- ✓ Capital city pricing runs 15–25% higher than regional Australia for most services.
- ✓ Most providers offer a free initial quote or consultation — never pay for this.
- ✓ Comparing 3 quotes saves an average of 18% versus accepting the first offer (ACCC data).
- ✓ Ask for itemised quotes; flat-rate quotes often hide exclusions.
Aged Care pricing by service
Here's how pricing breaks down by service type:
| Service | Typical cost | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Aged Care Placement | Free for families | Free placement support to find a residential aged care home that matches your needs and budget. |
| In-Home Care Comparison | $7,500 — $61,000/year | Compare Home Care Package providers (Levels 1-4) for support to remain in your own home. |
| Dementia Care | $450k RAD + $30k/yr | Specialist dementia care homes and memory support units across Australia. |
| Respite Care | Means-tested | Short-term residential care for relief of family carers (up to 63 days/year subsidised). |
| Palliative Care | Subsidised | End-of-life care services, both residential and at home. |
| CHSP (Commonwealth Home Support) | Subsidised, small co-contribution | Entry-level home support services for over 65s (cleaning, transport, meals, social support). |
Pricing by city
Based on our 5-provider dataset, typical aged care pricing varies by city:
| City | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | Upper metro pricing | Large supply, competitive on volume |
| Sydney | Highest metro pricing | Premium market, 10–15% above Melbourne |
| Brisbane | Mid-tier metro | Growing market, good value for specialist care |
| Perth | Mid-tier metro | Fewer providers, more personal service |
| Adelaide | Lowest metro pricing | Excellent value, limited premium options |
How to save money on aged care
- Always get 3 quotes for like-for-like scope — saves 15–20% on average
- Book outside peak periods where possible (avoid school holidays, end of financial year)
- Ask providers to match a lower quote you've received in writing
- Check if a basic service tier meets your needs before upgrading
- Read the exclusions section of quotes carefully; ask specifically what's NOT included
- Use a comparison service (like this one) to pre-qualify providers and get bundled quotes
Frequently asked questions
How much do aged care cost in Australia in 2026?
Residential aged care costs include a Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) of $400k-$1.2M (returned when you leave), the Basic Daily Care Fee of $61.96/day (paid by everyone), a means-tested care fee of 0-$32,718/year based on income and assets, and optional extra services fees. Total annual cost ranges from $30,000 (low-means residents) to $90,000+ (premium homes). In-home care via Home Care Packages is much cheaper: $7,500-$61,000/year depending on level.
How much does aged care cost in Australia in 2026?
Residential aged care costs include a Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) of $400k-$1.2M (returned when you leave), the Basic Daily Care Fee of $61.96/day (paid by everyone), a means-tested care fee of 0-$32,718/year based on income and assets, and optional extra services fees. Total annual cost ranges from $30,000 (low-means residents) to $90,000+ (premium homes). In-home care via Home Care Packages is much cheaper: $7,500-$61,000/year depending on level.
Will Centrelink fund aged care?
The government heavily subsidises aged care through the Aged Care Subsidy. The amount depends on a means assessment of your parent's income and assets. Low-means residents pay only the Basic Daily Care Fee ($61.96/day) and have their accommodation costs covered. Higher-means residents pay more, including a means-tested care fee up to $32,718/year and full accommodation costs (RAD or daily payment). Services Australia conducts the means assessment — submit forms SA457 (income) and SA485 (assets).
Is the family home counted as an asset?
Generally yes, but with important exemptions. The family home is exempt from the means assessment if a "protected person" still lives there — this includes a partner, dependent child, carer who has lived there 2+ years, or close relative who has lived there 5+ years. If exempt, the home doesn't affect aged care fees. If not exempt, it's capped in the means assessment at $193,219 (2026 figure) regardless of actual value.
How do I get an ACAT assessment for my parent?
Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. The assessment is free and conducted by a qualified team (usually a nurse or social worker) at your parent's home. It takes 1-2 hours and determines what level of care they're eligible for — Home Care Package levels, residential aged care, respite, or transition care. You'll receive a referral code by post within 2-4 weeks. Without an ACAT code, you cannot access subsidised aged care services.
How much does aged care cost in Australia in 2026?
Residential aged care costs include a Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) of $400k-$1.2M (returned when you leave), the Basic Daily Care Fee of $61.96/day (paid by everyone), a means-tested care fee of 0-$32,718/year based on income and assets, and optional extra services fees. Total annual cost ranges from $30,000 (low-means residents) to $90,000+ (premium homes). In-home care via Home Care Packages is much cheaper: $7,500-$61,000/year depending on level.
Get Free Aged Care Placement Support
We connect you with trusted placement specialists who help you navigate the system. Free for families. No obligation.
Thanks! We're on it.
We'll match you with top providers in your area. Expect to hear back within 24 hours.