Our Guide to Accessing Residential Aged Care
Are you or a loved one considering Residential Aged Care? Doutta Galla is here to help you navigate the process. This simple guide outlines the six key steps involved in securing a place in an aged care home, ensuring a smooth transition for all involved.
Step 1: Arrange a My Aged Care Assessment
Step 2: Understanding the My Aged Care Portal
The My Aged Care portal is a useful tool for finding an aged care home that meets specific needs.
When first contacting Doutta Galla, you will need to provide key information, including the My Aged Care Referral Code. This code allows the Doutta Galla team to access clinical information about the individual’s care needs and assess whether they can provide the appropriate care.
Step 3: Touring the Aged Care Home
A tour is an essential step to see if the aged care home is suitable.
First, Doutta Galla will confirm if they have the capacity to provide care. If they do, they will arrange a tour for you. During the tour, they will show you around the home, including the rooms, activities, meals, and more. This is your chance to ask any questions about the care and living arrangements. If you decide to proceed, Doutta Galla will provide additional details and review the application forms with you.
Step 4: Application Process
To officially apply for a place in the aged care home, the application process needs to be completed.
You will need to fill out and return the application forms along with any required documents. If you are applying for residential care, arrange a means test through Services Australia by calling 1800 227 475. This test determines the cost of care. Once all necessary forms and documents are received, Doutta Galla will process the application.
Step 5: Application Approval
Approval is required to secure a place in the aged care home.
Doutta Galla will confirm if a room is available or place the individual on the waitlist if there are no current vacancies. They will coordinate with social workers and their internal team to prepare for admission. They will contact you to confirm the next steps and the move-in date. Agreements will be issued for signing to finalise the admission process.
Step 6: Move-in Day
Move-in day is when the individual will be welcomed into their new home, and all details will be finalised.
Aged Care Assessment Services
Western Metropolitan Regional ACAS - North West
Western Metropolitan Regional ACAS - Western
Shepparton/Hume ACAS
Western Metropolitan Regional ACAS - North West
Resources
We endeavour to keep our community up to date with useful information and resources. The following information and links to affiliate organisations may be helpful in further researching aged care options and services.
Elder Rights Advocacy
Australian Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission
Department of Health
Centrelink
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
My Aged Care Contact Centre
Seniors Information Services
How do I start the process of entering aged care?
The first step is a free assessment through My Aged Care (myagedcare.gov.au or 1800 200 422), which determines the type of care you’re eligible for. Once approved, contact Doutta Galla on (03) 9680 3300 to discuss availability, book a tour and complete an Application for Residential Care (attaching your My Aged Care report). If accepted, you’ll sign a Resident Agreement before moving in, with a 14-day cooling-off period for peace of mind.
How long does it typically take to move into aged care once a decision has been made?
It varies with assessment timing and room availability. If an assessment is already in place and a room is available, entry can happen within days. Otherwise, allow a few weeks for assessment, financial arrangements and paperwork. Doutta Galla can advise on current availability across our eight homes.
What should I look for when choosing an aged care home?
Look at clinical care quality (registered nurse coverage, care-minute performance), the feel of the home, lifestyle programs, food, cultural inclusiveness, location and fees. At Doutta Galla, every home is led by a Registered Nurse Home Manager, maintains 24/7 RN coverage, and is supported by specialist nurses in dementia, palliative care, diabetes and wound care. We encourage families to book a tour and ask questions.
If you have any questions or need additional assistance at any step, Doutta Galla is available to support you throughout the process.
Doutta Galla is committed to providing exceptional care and support throughout your aged care journey. Contact us today to discuss your needs and get started!
