What Happens During an ACAS Assessment?
When you’re starting the process of arranging aged care services in Australia, one of the first steps is an ACAS assessment. But what exactly is it — and what should you expect?
At ApplyWise, we guide clients through every step of the aged care journey. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you feel more prepared and confident about the ACAS assessment process.
What is an ACAS Assessment?
ACAS stands for Aged Care Assessment Service. It’s a free, government-funded process that determines:
- What kind of support the person needs
- Whether they’re eligible for government-subsidised aged care services
- What level of care is appropriate (e.g. home care, respite, or residential care)
Assessments are carried out by a team of health professionals, often including nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists. They consider the individual’s physical, emotional, and social needs.
An ACAS assessment isn’t just a formality — it’s the key to unlocking access to aged care support and services.
When is an ACAS Assessment Required?
You’ll typically need an ACAS assessment when:
- You’re applying for residential aged care (such as a nursing home)
- You want access to certain in-home support services, respite care, or transitional care programs
- There has been a recent decline in health or mobility, and additional help is needed
It’s also common for family members or GPs to request an assessment on behalf of a loved one, especially if they notice challenges with daily living tasks.
What Happens During the Assessment?
The ACAS assessment usually happens in person, either at home, in a hospital, or in your current place of residence. Here’s what to expect:
- A friendly conversation with an assessor about health conditions, daily activities, and any difficulties you’re experiencing
- Discussion of current supports — such as help from family, carers, or existing services
- Questions about mobility, memory, medications, and home safety
- A chance to raise your own concerns and ask questions
It’s not a test. The purpose is to gather a clear picture of your situation and recommend support options that match your needs.
Can Family Members or an ApplyWise representative Be Present?
Yes, and it’s often very helpful. A family member, friend, carer, or advocate can:
- Offer additional context about the person’s condition
- Help the person feel more at ease
- Ask relevant questions or clarify concerns
Their presence can be especially valuable if the individual being assessed is feeling nervous or unsure about the process.
What Are ACAS Approval Codes?
After the assessment, you’ll receive a letter summarising the outcome. This includes:
- Whether you’re approved for government-funded aged care services
- What level of care you’re eligible for
- A list of ACAS approval codes
These codes are important — they tell aged care providers what you’re approved for. Common codes include approvals for permanent residential care, respite care, or home care packages. If you don’t understand these codes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
How ApplyWise Can Help
At ApplyWise, we make the ACAS assessment process easier by: ✅ Helping you prepare ahead of time so you know what to expect
✅ Attending the assessment with you, if desired
✅ Explaining your approval letter and codes in plain English
✅ Connecting you with suitable aged care providers, services, or accommodation options
We take the stress out of the process, helping you move forward with confidence and clarity.
What Happens After the Assessment?
Once approved, you’ll be entered into the My Aged Care system and can begin looking at care options that match your needs. This may involve:
- Applying to aged care homes using your approval codes
- Registering for a Home Care Package (which may involve a waiting period)
- Exploring short-term services such as respite or transitional care
This is where many people feel stuck — but ApplyWise is here to help you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
The ACAS assessment can seem overwhelming, but it’s a crucial step in accessing the care and support you or your loved one deserves. With a little preparation — and the right support — it doesn’t have to be stressful. Here is the link to My Aged Care
Need help navigating the process?
Reach out to ApplyWise today — we’re here to support you from first contact through to approved care.
📞 0412 734 608
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