Before you start visiting aged care residences, or if you are planning to use home and community care services, you must find out if you are eligible for Australian Government support.

Your first step is to contact an Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) or an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) if you do not live in Victoria.

ACAS assessments are provided free by the Australian Government and all approvals are valid for 12 months.

You can contact your doctor, local hospital or health centre to provide you with a referral to an ACAS or you can contact an ACAS yourself. A directory of ACAS and ACAT services can be found at Aged Care Australia, the Australian Government’s premier website on aged care. www.agedcareaustralia.gov.au/

At your appointment, your ACAS member will assess you by asking a number of questions relating to your lifestyle and health needs. They will then work out the best care option for you.

We encourage you to take a family member or friend along to support you. With your consent, your doctor may also be asked to provide information on your medical history. This will assist in determining your eligibility for entry into either low level or high level residential care, respite or home care. A copy of the completed assessment may be given to you during the appointment or it may be posted to you. If you are eligible for residential aged care, you will need to keep a copy of the document as your proof of entry.

Your ACAS member can now assist in providing you with the contact details of the nearest Mercy Health residential aged care facility or service. Or you can view our facilities in the Aged Care Residences listing on this website.