An ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) assessment is the required gateway to accessing Australian Government-funded aged care services, including home care packages and residential aged care. This step-by-step guide walks you through the referral process, what to expect on the day, and how to act on your assessment outcome in 2026.

How to get an ACAT assessment: step-by-step guide — 2026 AU guide

Navigating the aged care system can feel overwhelming, particularly when you or a loved one needs support for the first time. The ACAT assessment is the essential first step, but the process is straightforward once you understand the stages involved. This guide explains each step clearly so you can approach the journey with confidence.

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What is an ACAT assessment and why do you need one?

An Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) assessment — known as an ACAS in Victoria — is a formal evaluation conducted by a team of health professionals. The assessment determines your care needs and eligibility for Australian Government-funded aged care services, including:

- Home Care Packages (for support while living at home) - Short-term care such as respite or transition care - Residential aged care (nursing home placement)

Without an approved ACAT assessment, you are not eligible to access these government-funded supports. The team typically includes a nurse, social worker, or other allied health professional who will assess your physical, psychological, social, and medical needs. There is no charge to you for the assessment itself.

If you are only seeking entry-level support at home, you may be directed towards a Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) assessment instead, which is conducted through the Regional Assessment Service (RAS). Your My Aged Care contact will help clarify which pathway applies to your situation.

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Step 1: Contact My Aged Care to begin your referral

The first step is to contact My Aged Care, which is the Australian Government's central entry point for aged care services. You can:

- Call the My Aged Care contact centre (available on the My Aged Care website) - Use the online registration form on the My Aged Care website - Ask a GP, hospital discharge planner, or social worker to make a referral on your behalf

When you call or register, a trained staff member will conduct a short initial screening conversation to understand your situation and determine whether an ACAT assessment is the appropriate next step. It helps to have your Medicare card and a brief summary of your current health concerns or daily challenges ready before you call.

For those researching providers ahead of the assessment, our best aged care providers in Sydney directory can help you understand the landscape before your approval comes through.

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Step 2: Prepare for your assessment appointment

Once the referral is accepted, an ACAT assessor will contact you to arrange a convenient time. Assessments are commonly conducted in the person's home, but can also take place in hospital or another location depending on your circumstances.

To prepare, gather the following:

- A list of your current medications - Contact details for your GP and any specialists - Medicare card and any relevant health records - A trusted family member, carer, or advocate to attend with you (this is encouraged) - A list of daily tasks you find difficult or need help with

Being honest and specific during the assessment is important. The assessor's role is not to judge you, but to understand your genuine needs so the right level of support can be recommended. Try to describe your worst or most challenging days, not just how you are managing on a good day.

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Step 3: Understand what happens during the assessment

During the assessment, the ACAT assessor will ask about your:

- Physical health and medical history - Daily living activities (cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene) - Mobility and fall risk - Cognitive health and memory - Social supports, including family and community connections - Home safety and suitability - Your own goals and preferences for care

The conversation is usually relaxed and conversational rather than clinical. You may be asked to demonstrate certain tasks or describe your daily routine. The assessor will also speak with your GP or treating medical team where relevant.

According to My Aged Care, assessments are person-centred, meaning your individual goals and preferences are central to the process.

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Step 4: Receive your assessment outcome

After the assessment, the ACAT team reviews the information gathered and prepares a written outcome. You will receive a letter explaining:

- Whether you are approved for government-funded aged care services - Which services you are approved for (for example, a Home Care Package at a particular level, or entry into residential aged care) - A Support Plan outlining your assessed needs and goals

If you are approved for a Home Care Package, your letter will include details about how to register your approval and begin searching for a provider. You can view approved providers through the My Aged Care website's provider search tool.

Refer to our cost guide to understand what fees may apply once you begin accessing approved services.

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Step 5: If your application is not approved or you disagree with the outcome

If the ACAT team determines you are not yet eligible, or if you feel the assessment outcome does not reflect your actual needs, you have the right to request a review. The outcome letter will include information about the review and appeals process.

You can also seek support from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, which handles complaints and concerns about aged care services and processes. The Commission can help clarify your rights as a consumer.

Consider speaking with an aged care advocate. The National Aged Care Advocacy Program, accessible through the My Aged Care website, can connect you with a free, independent advocate to support you through a review.

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Step 6: Next steps after approval — finding a provider

Once you hold an approval, the process of finding a suitable provider begins. Key steps include:

- Searching for approved providers on the My Aged Care website using your location and care needs - Contacting providers directly to discuss your needs, preferences, and any waitlists - Comparing service agreements carefully before signing anything - Asking about fees, inclusions, staff qualifications, and complaint processes

Provider quality information is publicly available through the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, including audit reports and compliance outcomes. Reviewing this information before choosing a provider is strongly recommended.

Our methodology explains how we evaluate and list aged care providers in our independent directory.

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Frequently asked questions

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Sources

- My Aged Care - Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) - Services Australia - Aged Care Act 1997

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Information in this article is general only and not personal advice. Verify the details with the linked sources or an appropriately qualified Australian professional before relying on them.

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