How much does aged care cost in Australia? (2026 breakdown)
Aged care costs are one of the biggest sources of confusion
And for good reason.
There isn’t one simple price.
Costs depend on:
The type of care
Your financial situation
The level of support required
This is why many families feel uncertain - and sometimes make decisions without fully understanding the financial impact.
Home care costs (staying at home)
If someone remains at home with support, costs typically include:
Basic daily fee
A standard contribution toward care services.
Income-tested fee
Based on financial circumstances.
Government funding
Through Home Care Packages, which cover a significant portion of care costs.
👉 Key point:
Home care is often more affordable initially, but costs can increase as needs grow.
Residential aged care costs (nursing homes)
This is where confusion increases.
Costs are typically made up of:
1. Basic Daily Fee
Covers everyday living costs like food and utilities.
2. Means-Tested Care Fee
Depends on income and assets.
3. Accommodation Costs
This is the big one.
You may pay:
A refundable lump sum (RAD)
A daily payment (DAP)
Or a combination of both
👉 This is where people often misunderstand the system - and where costs can vary significantly.
Do you have to sell your house?
Not always.
It depends on:
Whether a partner remains living in the home
The overall asset situation
But:
👉 property is often a major factor in cost calculations
Why timing matters
One of the biggest financial mistakes is waiting too long.
When decisions are rushed:
Options may be limited
You may accept higher costs
You lose the ability to plan effectively
The reality
There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Two people with similar care needs can pay very different amounts based on their situation.
Want to understand your situation specifically?
That’s where Attera helps.
Instead of trying to piece everything together:
👉 Answer a few questions
👉 Understand where you stand
👉 Get a clearer view of your likely path
