You’ve got enough on your plate taking care of your loved one. The last thing you need is more confusion over what a referral code is. You’re told to contact My Aged Care, but then it all starts: assessments, codes, providers, government language that makes your head spin. What’s a referral code? How is that different from an assignment? And why does it feel like you need a PhD just to get your parent a cleaner?
Here’s the truth: you’re not doing anything wrong; the system is just complicated. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a My Aged Care referral code actually does, the difference between getting a code and being assigned a provider, how to get your referral code and start receiving care, and what to do if you lose your code or feel stuck.
Whether you’re organising care for your parent or getting support for yourself, this is the information you’ve been searching for, without the jargon. Let’s make aged care easier.
What Is a My Aged Care Referral Code?
A My Aged Care referral code is a unique number that’s given to you after you’ve had an aged care assessment. Think of it as a key; it unlocks access to government-funded services like home cleaning, showering help, meal delivery, and more.
This referral code:
Is created just for you.
Contains important information about your support needs.
Is used by aged care providers to view your approved services and start care.
It’s private, safe, and helps ensure you get the right help at the right time.
How Does a Referral Code Work With Government-Funded Aged Care?
My Aged Care referral code plays a vital role in accessing government-funded aged care services by linking you directly to the support programs for which you’ve been approved. Once you’ve completed your assessment and eligibility through an assessment organisation, such as ACAT or RAS, and are deemed eligible, you’ll receive one or more referral codes depending on your care needs. Service providers use these codes to access your support plan and start delivering care.
For example, you might receive a referral code for a Home Care Package (HCP), which offers long-term, coordinated support for complex or ongoing needs. Alternatively, you might get a code for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), which provides entry-level services like cleaning, personal care, transport, or meal preparation. In some cases, clients may also be approved for respite care or allied healthcare services, each of which requires its referral code.
These codes help ensure you’re matched with suitable services and that funding is allocated appropriately. If needed, you can also reactivate a referral code or request a new one by contacting My Aged Care or registering for your Aged Care online account.
Don’t know where to start? Wise Choice is here to help. Let us walk you through the referral process and connect you with the right support services to suit your needs. Contact us!
How Do You Get a My Aged Care Referral Code?
Now that you know why the referral code is so important, let’s talk about how to get one. It’s not as complicated as it sounds, and the process is fairly straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Call My Aged Care:
The first thing you’ll need to do is call 1800 200 422 or visit their website at www.myagedcare.gov.au. A family member, friend, or even your general practitioner (GP) can assist you with the process. Phone Screening:
When you contact My Aged Care, you’ll undergo a short phone screening. They’ll ask questions about your current health, living situation, and the type of care you might need to determine whether you qualify for services and what level of care may be required.In-Person Assessment (ACAT or RAS):
If you’re eligible for care, the next step is a free in-person assessment. This is either:ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team): For higher-level care (e.g., support for complex needs).
RAS (Regional Assessment Service): For more basic services, like help with daily tasks at home.
An assessor will visit you at your home or a comfortable alternative location to assess your needs and determine the type of support that is right for you.
Receive Your Referral Code:
After your assessment, if you’re eligible for support, you’ll be given one or more referral codes based on the services you’ve been approved for.These codes can be used with any approved aged care provider. Your chosen provider will use the code to tailor your care plan and start delivering services.
Tip: A family member, friend, carer, or GP can help you make the call or fill out the online form to get started.
Can I have more than one referral code?
Yes! If you’re approved for more than one type of care, say, home care and respite care, you might receive separate referral codes for each. This is entirely normal and helps ensure you get the proper support in each area.
How Do I Use My Aged Care Referral Code?
Once you have your code, it’s time to connect with a local aged care provider in Fairfield. Here’s how:
Give the code to your chosen provider. They will enter the code into the My Aged Care system and see what services you’ve been approved for.
Compare providers. If you’re not sure who to choose yet, you can give the code to more than one provider while you explore your options.
Start your services. Once you choose a provider, they’ll set everything up, from your care plan to arranging support workers.
Your referral code ensures that your new provider knows exactly what help you need and how best to deliver it.
What if I lose my referral code?
It’s okay, many people misplace it. You can always call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 and ask for your code to be reissued. If you’ve already chosen a provider, they can help you to retrieve it for you, too.
How Long Does It Take to Get an ACAT Assessment?
Once you’ve completed the phone screening, your in-person ACAT or RAS assessment will usually take between 2 and 6 weeks. The wait time can vary depending on your location and urgency.
Due to demand, wait times might be slightly longer for residents of the greater Western Sydney area, but urgent cases, such as someone who has recently been discharged from the hospital, can be prioritised.
After the assessment, you should receive your referral code(s) within a few days to two weeks, depending on the situation.
Need help with care planning? At Wise Choice, we’ll make it simple. Contact us today for expert advice on selecting the right care plan for your loved one.
Referral Codes & Aged Care Providers: What’s the Difference Between a Code and an Assignment?
When you receive your referral, it comes in one of two ways:
Referral Code: You get to choose which provider you give the code to. This gives you control and flexibility.
Referral Assignment: My Aged Care automatically assigns your referral to one provider, meaning you don’t get the code and have less say in who provides your care.
Can I choose my provider with the referral code?
Yes, and that’s the best part. If you have a referral code, you can contact different providers to compare services, pricing, and availability. You can then choose the one that suits you best, ideally, one close to your home, where providers understand your local needs.
What if I am switching providers?
If you’re changing providers, you’ll need to reactivate your referral code. Call My Aged Care at 1800 200 422 and ask them to reissue your referral so you can give it to your new provider.
Who Can Help Me Use the Referral Code?
You’re not expected to figure it all out alone. If you’re unsure what to do with your referral code or where to start, there are plenty of people who can support you:
A family member or friend
Your GP or nurse
Local Aged Care providers
Aged care advocates or case managers
Many providers offer free guidance, even before you sign up. So don’t hesitate to ask questions to your aged care provider or get someone to speak on your behalf.
Does Using a Referral Code Cost Anything?
Receiving a referral code is free. However, services accessed through that code may involve fees, depending on your income assessment. For example:
Home Care Packages may include a basic daily fee, and income tested fee.
CHSP services may request a contribution, though providers will always discuss this upfront.
Conclusion
Getting the proper aged care doesn’t have to be confusing. The My Aged Care Referral Code helps you access the services you need, whether it’s assistance with everyday tasks or more specialised support. The process is simple: make a call, have an assessment, and receive your referral code. From there, you can easily connect with providers who will deliver the care tailored to you. You don’t have to do this alone; family, friends, and professionals are there to support you at every step. Once you have your referral code, you’re ready to start receiving the help you deserve.
At Wise Choice, we’re committed to making the in-home care journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re unsure about referral codes, need help choosing the right services, or need a trusted partner in this process, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Do you need personalised, professional support for your loved ones’ in-home care? Contact Wise Choice today, and let us guide you to the care that works for you.
