What are Aged Care Homes?
Aged care homes, also referred to as residential aged care facilities or nursing homes, are purpose-built environments that support older people who can no longer live independently. At Masonic Care WA, we ensure each resident enjoys a comfortable lifestyle, with personalised care plans and a strong sense of community.
Services available at our aged care homes
Masonic Care WA provides a broad range of services tailored to the unique needs of each resident:
- Accommodation: Safe, accessible rooms designed for comfort and ease of living.
- Hotel-style services: Freshly prepared meals, professional laundry, and daily housekeeping.
- Personal care: Respectful assistance with tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating.
- Clinical care: On-site nursing and medical support including medication management.
- Therapy services: Allied health support such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and podiatry.
- Social and lifestyle programs: Engaging recreational activities that foster connection and wellbeing.
Our team is dedicated to providing care that respects dignity, promotes independence, and nurtures community spirit.
Understanding the costs of residential aged care homes
As a government-approved aged care provider, Masonic Care WA supports equitable access to safe and high-quality aged care services. Currently, aged care funding is subsidised by the Australian Government to help reduce the cost burden on eligible individuals and families.
However, changes to the Aged Care Act and funding model are expected to be introduced later in 2025. These reforms are part of a broader effort to enhance transparency, fairness, and person-centred care across the sector.
Transitioning to a New Funding Model
Under the upcoming reforms—anticipated to take effect in the second half of 2025—aged care subsidies will increasingly be based on the specific needs of each individual. These changes are likely to be reflected in residential aged care through:
- More individualised funding allocations, determined by care needs assessments
- Greater transparency and simplicity in fee structures and charges
- A stronger focus on consumer rights and informed decision-making
Masonic Care WA is committed to keeping residents and families informed as more details become available and the government finalises the legislative framework.
Current Cost Structure (Pre-Reform)
Until the new system is implemented, the current government funding arrangements remain in place. Costs for residential aged care generally include:
Basic Daily Fee
This standard contribution covers meals, cleaning, laundry, and other everyday services. It is set at 85% of the single basic Age Pension and applies to all residents.
Means-tested Care Fee
This fee contributes to the cost of personal and clinical care and is determined by Services Australia following an assessment of your income and assets. Annual and lifetime caps apply.
Accommodation costs
You can choose from the following payment options:
- Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) – a lump sum, refundable upon departure (less agreed deductions)
- Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) – a daily, non-refundable fee calculated from the RAD using a government-set interest rate
- Combination of RAD and DAP – offering flexibility to suit your financial situation
Additional Services
Masonic Care WA offers a range of lifestyle and premium service options to enhance your comfort and living experience. These optional extras are paid for privately by the resident.
Financial assessment process
Before moving into a Masonic Care WA aged care home, Services Australia will conduct a financial assessment to determine:
- Your eligibility for government subsidies
- Any applicable means-tested care fee
- Your contribution toward accommodation costs
Masonic Care WA will provide a full breakdown of fees and payment options based on your individual assessment.
Seeking financial advice
With reform on the horizon and funding structures set to change later in 2025, we strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice. This will ensure you are well-prepared to make informed decisions under both current and future funding models.
Supporting you on your aged care journey
Navigating aged care homes and their associated costs can be overwhelming. That’s why our friendly team at Masonic Care WA is ready to help. From understanding fees to exploring care options, we ensure transparency and personalised guidance at every stage.
Helpful Resources on Aged Care
For more insights into aged care support and costs, we recommend visiting the links above.
