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Understanding NDIS and Aged Care Funding in Australia

  • Jul 3
  • 5 min read

Updated: Jul 7

The process of negotiating a path through government funded care services can sometimes be daunting and confusing, particularly when deciding which pathway is suitable, National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or Aged Care funding. Both programs are intended to support Australians to be independent and safe in their own homes but are for different reasons and have different eligibility criteria.


At Luxe Care, we offer individualised in-home care packages and frequently get asked what the difference between NDIS funding and Aged Care funding is. This guide outlines the differences and the ways both programs can help individuals maintain their needs and desires to live in their own home.


What is the NDIS?

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds Australians with a permanent and significant disability. The NDIS aims to enable participants to become more independent, enhance their quality of life and pursue their goals.


Most people are able to access funding from the NDIS when they:

  • Live with a disability for a long or significant time

  • Are under 65 years of age when they first apply

  • Australian residency requirements are met


NDIS funding can be used for in-home services like:


  • Personal care assistance

  • Duties and domestic assistance at home

  • Community participation support

  • Support with Activities of Daily Living (ADL)

  • Transport-related supports

  • Capacity-building services


Funding and support will vary according to each person's individual needs and goals and be detailed in their NDIS plan.



Aged Care funding aims to provide assistance to older Australians for them to live safely and independently in their own home.


Aged Care funding is not based on disabilities as much as age related care needs, unlike the NDIS.


For the older age group, assistance can be sought through government funding such as home care packages, following an assessment to determine the level of care that is needed.


In-home Aged Care services can consist of:


  • Personal care

  • Domestic assistance

  • Meal preparation

  • Companionship, social support

  • Transport assistance

  • Assist in household tasks


The emphasis is on maintaining independence, wellbeing and good quality of life and facilitating older Australians to remain in their own homes for as long as they can.


Key differences between NDIS funding and aged care funding are explained below. 


1. Eligibility Requirements


NDIS

  • Eligible for to those who have a permanent disability.

  • The age for applicants is normally less than 65 on joining the scheme.

Aged Care

  • Created specifically for older people who need support because of the effects of ageing.

  • Admission to aged care is via an aged care assessment process.


2. Purpose of Funding


NDIS

Emphasises supporting people to reach their own goals, become more independent, and join in with others in their local community.

Aged Care

Works with older adults to support them with activities of daily living and keeping them safe at home.


3. Types of Support Available.


This may be some overlap in services offered but the intent of the service is different.


For instance, both programs can provide personal care or home support services, but:

  • The supports that are accessed through the NDIS are aligned to disability goals and needs.

  • Aged Care supports are not only associated with age related care needs and ageing at home, but also with maintaining a sense of independence.


4. Transitioning at Age 65

A frequently asked question is:


What happens when an NDIS participant reaches the age of 65?


Generally, someone who is already getting funding from the NDIS prior to age 65 will be able to continue to receive the NDIS funding. Typically, people who first seek support after age 65 will use services from the Aged Care system, instead of the NDIS.


Which Funding Pathway Is Right for You?


Depending on your age, situation and support needs, the right funding pathway will be one that is different.


If you might benefit from the NDIS, you are likely to be eligible if:

  • You are permanently disabled and have a permanent and significant disability.

  • You have met the NDIS eligibility criteria.

  • You need disability supports to get to where you want to be and stay independent.


If you may find you are eligible for Aged Care funding:


  • You are an older Australian needing assistance with everyday activities.

  • The need for support is mostly associated with ageing.

  • You prefer to live in your home without the support of others.


Knowing what program, you qualify for can help you receive the necessary support earlier and help you make decisions regarding the care you receive.


How Luxe Care Can Help?


If you have received or are expecting to receive funding from the NDIS, or if you have services funded from the government, it is critical you find the right provider. 


Luxe Care is a compassionate, personalised in-home care that is customised to meet individual client needs, objectives, and lifestyles. Our professional staff closely liaise with participants, older Australians and their families to deliver excellent quality support which is focussed on maintaining independence, dignity and wellbeing. 


We strive to support our clients and assist them in enjoying a comfortable and confident lifestyle in their own homes from personal care to social support and daily living assistance.


Get Started with Luxe Care Today


If you are not sure if you are eligible for NDIS or Aged Care funding, we are here to assist you. We can help you navigate your choices, understand what supports are available and connect you with the in-home care supports that are available to you. 


Call Luxe Care today and talk about your care needs and how we can help you or your family member live independently at home.


Frequently Asked Questions


  1. Is it possible to receive in-home care funding from both the NDIS and aged care?

In general, support is obtained via the main funding program which they are eligible for. This will depend on things like your age and support needs.


  1. Is Luxe Care an NDIS and an Aged Care provider?

Yes. Luxe Care delivers tailored in-home care services to eligible aged adults who receive government-funded aged care services and eligible NDIS participants.


  1. What types of in-home services can be funded?

Some services may cover personal care, household support, meal preparation, companionship, transport and daily living support, depending on your funding arrangement and your individual circumstances.


  1. Is it possible for me to continue to receive services and supports from the NDIS after I reach 65 years of age?

For anyone who is already a participant of the NDIS before turning 65, they are likely to continue to receive their NDIS supports.


  1. How do I know which funding program I am eligible for?

Eligibility depends on your age, circumstances, and support needs. Speaking with a care provider such as Luxe Care can help you understand your options and identify the most appropriate pathway for accessing in-home support.

 
 
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