12/03/2026
๐ฟ Caring for a Family Member in Australia?
๐ก Many families only discover these supports when a loved one suddenly needs care. Many people donโt realise that Australia actually has several support systems that can work together to reduce pressure on families.
Here are some of the key supports available:
๐งฉ NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
NDIS funds support services, such as:
๐ฉโโ๏ธ support workers
๐ฃ๏ธ therapies (OT / Speech)
๐ง behaviour support
NDIS may also fund Short Term Accommodation (STA), which can provide respite care, trial stays, or support to build independent living skills.
๐ฐ Disability Support Pension (DSP)
DSP is an income support payment for people unable to work due to long-term health conditions or disability. Currently, a single person may receive around $1,100 per fortnight. Many people receive both DSP + NDIS.
๐ Commonwealth Rent Assistance
If someone receives Centrelink payments and pays rent, they may also be eligible for Rent Assistance to help reduce housing costs.
โค๏ธ Support for Carers
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐ง Carer Payment โ income support similar to Age Pension
๐ต Carer Allowance โ around $150 per fortnight
๐ค Carer Gateway
Provides free support for carers, including counselling, respite services, training and practical resources.
๐ก Support at Home / My Aged Care
For older Australians, services are accessed through My Aged Care, including the new Support at Home program, which funds support such as personal care, nursing care and daily living assistance.
โณ Important Age Milestone
๐ Enter NDIS before age 65 โ usually can remain in NDIS long term
๐ Support needed after 65 โ usually accessed through My Aged Care
๐ก Some people receiving DSP may continue on DSP even after reaching Age Pension age, depending on their individual circumstances and what Centrelink considers to be in their best interest.
๐ฟ Exploring Care Options? Our facility welcomes residents supported by:
โ NDIS funding
โ Disability Support Pension (DSP) And Age Pension
โ Support at Home funding
๐ก Visit our facility
๐ฉ Call us on 03 9890 4488