My Aged Care

Getting help for the first time

My Aged Care is your starting point for accessing Australian Government-funded aged care services.

This means, to access services in Merri-bek you will need to register on the My Aged Care website. 

You can apply for the My Aged Care assessmentonline via the My Aged Care webpage if you are: 

• A resident 65 years and over 
• Over 50 and Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander

• What do I need to get started?

  You will need

  • Your Medicare card
  • 10-20 minutes to fill out the form or to talk to someone on the phone.
• What will they ask?

  My Age Care will have a friendly chat with you about your daily life, health and wellbeing. They’ll ask about the things you’re managing well on your own, and discuss the areas you may benefit from support. 

  Your answers will help the My Aged Care team understand your needs. 

• Do you need a translator?

  If a translator is required, My Age Care can arrange one in your preferred language.

  If your application is successful, a friendly and qualified healthcare professional will be in touch to schedule a Living at Home assessment via the My Aged Care webpage.

  If you need help with this process you can contact our Age Well Team.

• What if I don't qualify for My Aged Care?

  If you don’t qualify for My Aged Care, support is still available if you’re not eligible, such as Home and Community Care for Younger People.  

Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACCPYP)

If you’re under 65 and you have additional support needs (Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander under 50), you could be eligible for the Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACCPYP)

• What is the Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACCPYP)?

  HACCPYP is jointly funded by the State and Federal governments, enabling our ageing community to be more active and independent. 

  This program provides basic support and maintenance to those living at home and is targeted towards people aged under 65 and those aged under 50 who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. The purpose of this program is to support individuals to be more active and independent at home and in the community.

• How is the assessment process done?

  Individuals will participate in a living-at-home assessment, which is a holistic and person-centred assessment conducted by a health professional.

  They will work together to develop and identify what’s important to and for the clients to remain living independently at home. The assessment process will include the client and other persons if required/appropriate. 

  The assessment will normally take place in the client’s home.

  Services you can access as part of the HACCPYP program

  • Assessment: initial assessment to confirm eligibility for the program and assistance to help you work out what you need. 
  • Access & Support: Short-term support for those who have additional needs that are more complex and help to understand and access the support services.
  • Allied Health: Referrals for Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Dietetics, Nursing
  • Domestic Assistance: Help around the home with cleaning. 
  • Delivered Meals: Prepared meals delivered to your door.
  • Personal Care: Assistance in the shower.
  • Property Maintenance: Handy person service (not regular lawn mowing or gardening). 
  • Personal Alert/Alarm: Assessment for Government-funded alarms for those eligible.
  • Respite Care: Providing the carer with a break
  • Meal Preparation: Support to prepare meals to cook at home.
  • Shopping Assistance: Escorted/unescorted
  • Social Support: Includes groups and activities to get you more connected with others in the community
• Do you want to learn more?

  For further information and to discuss eligibility contact Merri-bek City Council Assessment Services Intake Officer on 9240 2338 or intakehomecare@merri-bek.vic.gov.au  

Age Well Planning Program

Our Age Well Planners are dedicated to supporting our ageing community with valuable information and resources. Our team is here to help you and your carers with unbiased information about services and support, ensuring over 55s age well.

Our Age Well Planners can help you

• Find support at home or in your community. So you can live longer, stronger, and safer.
• Register with My Age Care.
• Request additional services if you are already receiving help at home.
• Connect with local service providers and other health professionals.
• Find Home Care Package Providers.
• Assist with Centrelink applications and complete forms.
• Apply for council and community initiatives.
• Access information on social activities, exercise programs, and volunteering opportunities.