How to Access Aged Care
Practical guidance for Australia and the United States
Care templates to organise the next step
At a glance
Use these templates to turn a discussion into a clear record. Start with one immediate need, keep the wording simple and review the document with the person receiving care. Store completed copies privately; do not submit personal care records through a general website enquiry.
Plan your next steps
Choose a template
- Care planning template — daily tasks, people involved, contacts and backup arrangements.
- Care budget worksheet — regular costs, confirmed funding, shortfalls and review dates.
- Family task-sharing record — lead person, timing, backup and agreed expenses.
- Conversation notes — priorities, concerns, options and the next agreed action.
Home-support needs record
Task or activity: ____
What the person can do and wants to keep doing: ____
Help needed and preferred time: ____
Who currently helps: ____
What happens if they are unavailable: ____
Question for a professional or provider: ____
Review date: ____
Questions and useful links
Keep the record useful
Use one task per entry. Describe what happens rather than using labels such as “high needs”. Mark anything uncertain and ask the relevant professional to clarify clinical instructions. Keep old versions dated so people know which plan is current.
Is this a legal or clinical document?
No. These are practical organisers. They do not create decision-making authority, consent for treatment or a professional care plan. Ask the relevant service what formal records are required.
Browse checklists · Prepare for an assessment · All resources
Sources and review
Original planning templates from How to Access Aged Care.
About this guide
Australia and United States • Prepared September 2026. Editorial lead: Louise Simon. Independent specialist review has not yet been completed. General information; confirm advice for your circumstances.