Understanding aged care costs.
Plain-English guides to how aged care fees work under Australia's new system from November 2025. No jargon, no sales pitch, just straightforward answers to the questions families actually ask.
Start here
The first thing to read if you're new to all of this.
How Much Does Aged Care Cost in Australia? (2026 Guide)
A plain-English breakdown of what aged care actually costs in Australia under the new system, including daily fees, accommodation payments, and means-tested contributions.
The essentials
Core topics worth understanding before you start.
How the Aged Care Means Test Works (Plain English)
The aged care means test determines how much you pay in fees. Here's exactly how it works, what counts, and what doesn't, with real examples.
New Aged Care Fees Explained: What Changed in November 2025
The Aged Care Act 2025 introduced major changes to how fees work. Here's what's different, what it means for you, and who's affected.
RAD vs DAP: Which Is Better for You? (2026)
Should you pay your aged care accommodation as a refundable lump sum (RAD) or a daily payment (DAP)? A clear comparison with worked examples.
Support at Home Costs: What You'll Pay in 2026
The new Support at Home program replaces Home Care Packages from November 2025. Here's how the 8 funding levels work and what you'll actually pay.
Deeper dives
More detailed reading on specific topics and strategies.
Aged Care Costs for Couples: When One Partner Enters Care
What happens when one partner needs aged care but the other stays home? Here's how fees, pension, and home exemption work for couples.
Home Equity Access Scheme for Aged Care: Is It Worth It?
The HEAS lets you borrow against your home to fund aged care without selling. Here's how it works and when it makes sense.
Aged Care Lifetime Cap Explained: The $135,000 Safety Net
Australia's aged care system has a lifetime cap that limits your total contributions. Here's how the $135,318.69 cap works and when it kicks in.
Selling Your Home for Aged Care: What You Need to Know
Should you sell the family home to fund aged care? Here's how it affects your pension, your fees, and your options under the new 2025 rules.
What Is a Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD)?
A plain-English explanation of RADs: what they are, how they work, and whether they're refundable. Everything you need to know in under 5 minutes.
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