Choosing an aged care provider is a big decision, but you shouldn’t have to feel “locked in” to your initial choice, especially if the service isn’t meeting your expectations.
Whether it’s high fees, inconsistent support staff, or a lack of communication, it is important to know that your funding belongs to you, not the provider.
Under the 2026 Support at Home program, the Australian Government has made it easier than ever to switch providers. Here is everything you need to know about moving your funding to a provider that is a better fit for you.
What is a “Portable” Budget?
With the transition to the new Support at Home system, the concept of “portability” is a core feature. Your assigned Support at Home classification, which ranges from Level 1 to Level 8, is linked to your individual My Aged Care profile, not a specific company.
If you decide to move to a new Perth-based provider:
- Your Classification Stays With You: You do not need a new assessment to switch.
- Unspent Funds Transfer: Any unspent funds or subsidies currently sitting in your account are transferred to your new provider via Services Australia.
- No Exit Fees: “Exit fees” were terminated to ensure senior citizens have the freedom to seek better care without financial snapshots or penalties.
How to Switch Aged Care Providers in Perth: A Step-by-Step Guide
Switching providers is straightforward, but timing is everything to ensure your care isn’t interrupted.
Step 1: Check Your Current Agreement
Look at the Service Agreement you signed with your current provider. Check for the notice period that is typically between 7 and 28 days. You will need to give them formal notice in writing.
Step 2: Find Your New Local Provider
Research providers who understand the Perth landscape. Perth Care Partners takes pride in being locally owned and operated. We have provided services to clients all over Perth for over ten years and pride ourselves on our quick response times and reliable staff.
Step 3: Reactivate Your Referral Code
To move your funding, you need to contact My Age Care to “reactivate” your referral code. We can help you do this or you can call My Aged Care directly. Once reactivated, you can give this code to your new provider.
Step 4: Align Your Start and End Dates
To ensure you aren’t left without essential services such as nursing or help with showering, coordinate the “End Date” with your old provider and the “Start Date” with your new one. We often assist families to make sure the transition is seamless.
2026 Pricing: Comparing Value
When researching for a new provider, a good place to start is the My Aged Care Website. Here, you can compare prices. However, there are other factors to consider apart from pricing, such as what services the provider offers and how responsive they are. Does your care manager return calls? Do they live in Perth? Do they understand the local WA health network? Can I have my carer visit at a specific time?
Things to Consider Before You Switch Providers
Before making a change, ask your potential new provider these three questions:
- Will I have a consistent team of appropriately trained carers?
- How flexible is it to modify the services I receive or change the time my carer will be visiting?
- Will I have a dedicated Care Partner who can visit me in person to help me navigate the Aged Care system?
If you have active Assistive Technology or Home Modification (AT-HM) funding, ensure your new provider is ready to manage the installation or maintenance of that equipment when you transfer to them.
Take Control of Your Aged Care
Your Support at Home funding is designed to help you live a full, independent life in the home you love. If your current provider isn’t helping you achieve that, you have every right to find one that will.
At Perth Care Partners, we make the switching process simple and stress-free. We believe in transparent pricing, local expertise, and, above all, being a partner in care.
Ready for a change? Contact our friendly Perth team today for a confidential discussion on how we can help you transition your funding to us and improve the care and support you receive.
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