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Community Conversations: Navigating Aged Care in the ACT

30 June 2026

We’ve heard loud and clear from our community: navigating aged care services in the ACT can feel overwhelming and confusing. 

To help bridge this gap, we recently hosted a Community Conversations event focused on “Navigating Aged Care in the ACT.” The event sold out quickly; highlighting just how strong the need is for clear information, guidance, and direct connections to services. 

Caption: Speakers and HCCA staff at Community Conversations: Navigating Aged Care in the ACT

On a rainy day in May, attendees joined us for a fast-paced, interactive session featuring key public, private, and community organisations. Each group hosted short, 10-minute table discussions, with speakers rotating through eight tables over two hours. Think speed-dating – but for aged care services. 

Below is a practical, service-focused guide based on what we learned, so you can explore your options with more confidence. 

What we learned – top tips from each group with key resources 

Navigation & Advocacy 

Services Australia / Centrelink – Aged Care Support 

Virtual Services Australia / Centrelink flyers handed out at the event

Centrelink offers specialist aged care appointments via face-to-face, phone, or video. 

They can help you: 

  • Understand My Aged Care 
  • Learn the steps involved in accessing services 
  • Complete initial eligibility screening 
  • Arrange aged care assessments 
  • Understand costs and financial contributions 
  • Connect with local supports 

Key tips: 

  • Face-to-face appointments can take 2–3 weeks to book—phone/video may be quicker 
  • Locations include Gungahlin, Woden, Tuggeranong, and Queanbeyan 
  • If you’re over 65, register with My Aged Care in advance for a smoother process 
  • Online cost estimators are useful, but personalised advice is more accurate 

 

COTA ACT (Council on the Ageing) 

Virtual COTA ACT flyers handed out at the event

COTA ACT is the peak advocacy body for older people in the ACT. 

They provide: 

  • Help navigating aged care systems (general guidance) 
  • Technology support (e.g. using online services) 
  • Advice on housing and ageing options 
  • Active ageing programs (like Strength for Life) 
  • Community events, including the Seniors Expo 

 

ADACAS (Advocacy for Disability and Aged Care Services)  

Virtual ADACAS flyers handed out at the event

ADACAS supports older people to understand and exercise their rights. 

They can assist with: 

  • Aged care advocacy and complaints 
  • Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) 
  • Human rights concerns 
  • Understanding aged care fees and costs 

 

Care Finder Program 

Virtual Care Finder flyers handed out at the event 

Care Finder is a free Australian Government service for vulnerable older people who have no informal supports and need extra help navigating aged care. 

Delivered locally by Community Options and Meridian. 

Care Finders can: 

  • Help you access My Aged Care 
  • Support reassessments if your needs change 
  • Guide you on where to start (“no wrong door” approach) 
  • Provide support even if you’re unsure of eligibility 

Caption: Participants and speakers at table discussions

 

 

Public and Community Service Providers 

Dementia Australia – Free Call 1800 100 500 

Virtual Dementia Australia flyers handed out at the event

Dementia Australia supports people living with dementia, as well as families and carers. 

Services include: 

  • Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (7-week evidence-based program) 
  • Social and day-respite programs (art, outings, movement groups) 
  • Carer support groups 
  • Dementia helpline (1800 100 500) 
  • Educational resources and planning support 

Dementia Australia helped in the development of this guide to ACT and local dementia services published by Capital Health Network: Carers-guide.pdf 

 

Northside and Woden Community Services – Aged Care Services 

Virtual Northside and Woden Community Services flyer handed out at the event

These organisations provide Support at Home services through My Aged Care. 

Services include: 

  • Personal care 
  • Domestic assistance 
  • Transport 
  • Social support 
  • Shopping and appointment help 
  • Respite care 

They can also: 

  • Assist with reassessments 
  • Coordinate with other providers if needed 

Aged Care – Northside Community Service 

Aged Care – Woden Community Service 

 

Canberra Health Services – Community Care Program 

Virtual CHS flyers handed out at the event

CHS provides free allied health and nursing services through its Community Care Program. 

Services include: 

  • Nursing (wound care, catheter care) 
  • Physiotherapy 
  • Nutrition 
  • Podiatry 
  • Occupational therapy 
  • Social work 
  • Group programs (e.g. chronic condition management, exercise groups) 

Important notes: 

  • Eligibility criteria and waitlists apply 
  • Central Health Intake is your first contact point on (02) 5124 9977  

 

CHS Residential Aged Care (RACH) Transition 

This team supports people moving from hospital into residential aged care. 

Key points: 

  • ACAT assessments can be completed faster in hospital 
  • You’ll need to nominate preferred aged care homes 
  • You can accept one placement while waiting for another 
  • Early research into facilities is strongly recommended 

Caption: Speaker from Dementia Australia answering participant’s question

 

 

Private Service Providers 

Residential Aged Care – Goodwin 

Residential aged care homes located in Ainslie, Farrer, Monash and Batemans Bay. Residential Care ACT & NSW | Goodwin Aged Care Services 

  • Dementia – secure support units or general population if well enough. 
  • Daily cost contributions are determined by Services Australia, depending on your income and assets.  

 

Third Age Matters 

Virtual Third Age Matters flyers handed out at the event

Third Age Matters is a private, fee-for-service aged care consultancy. 

They can help with: 

  • Completing forms and applications 
  • Navigating Centrelink and My Aged Care 
  • Understanding aged care processes 
  • Financial planning for aged care 
  • Finding suitable residential care options 

t: 1300 350 093
m: 0418 651 330
e: [email protected] 

Planning Ahead: What You Can Do Now 

Even if you’re currently independent and well, planning ahead can make a significant difference. 

Consider: 

  • Registering with My Aged Care as soon as you are eligible 
  • Speaking with a financial advisor about future care costs 
  • Accessing early support for health conditions 
  • Researching aged care homes and identifying preferences 

Taking these steps early can reduce stress and help ensure your preferences are respected later on. 

 

Final Thoughts 

Navigating aged care doesn’t have to be done alone. There are a wide range of services across the ACT ready to support you, whether you’re just starting to explore options or need immediate assistance. 

Building connections early, asking questions, and understanding your options can make all the difference in creating a smoother aged care journey.

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