Prior to 1 July 2014 Residential Aged Care was categorised into three types; Low Care, High Care and Extra Services. A different financial arrangement applied to each and while some facilities offered only one type of care others had more than one — and perhaps all 3 — in the same facility.
When a couple is entering into Residential Aged Care consideration needs to be given to the timing of their move and the impact this can have on their means assessment.
Post 1 July 2014 a person’s ability to contribute towards the cost of their accommodation and care is subject to a means test which incorporates both assets and income. Refer to Residential Aged Care Means Test Factsheet. The reforms removed the distinction between low care and high care, creating a single payment structure for aged care residents.
An insurance or investment bond is an investment which has features similar to a managed fund in terms of an investment whilst also being a life insurance policy. Centrelink assess financial assets held in a Trust structure differently to those held in a client’s own name.
