The assessment determines your parent's funding level. Honest, comprehensive answers mean more support. This coach walks you through each section so your parent is classified at the level that reflects their real needs.
Funding figures as at March 2026 · General information only
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Why honest answers matter more than you think
Many older Australians understate their needs during assessment. They are proud. They do not want to be a burden. They answer based on their best days, not their worst. The consequence is real:
→A lower classification means less funding. Classification 3 gets $22,228/year. Classification 5 gets $40,556/year. That is $18,000 more per year for honest answers.
→Services not assessed for today cannot be accessed quickly later. Getting reassessed can take months.
→The assessment is not a test. It is a needs snapshot. The assessor wants to help.
→Having a family member present is strongly encouraged. You can provide a more objective picture.
The 12 Assessment Areas
The assessor uses the Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT) to evaluate needs across 12 areas. For each area below, we show the common underreporting pattern and a coaching prompt to help your parent answer honestly.
Common underreporting
"I manage fine" — when in reality they need help with buttons, cannot wash their own back, or have had falls in the bathroom.
Coaching prompt
Think about your worst days, not your best. If someone helps you shower, dress, or use the toilet even occasionally, that counts. Do you ever skip a shower because it feels unsafe?
"If nobody was here to help, what would happen with your shower routine?"
The assessor needs to understand the full picture. A good answer describes what happens on a bad day, not just a good one.
Pre-Assessment Checklist
Complete these before the assessment day. Print this checklist and take it with you.
Think the classification is too low?
If your parent has already been assessed and you believe the classification does not reflect their real needs, you can request a Support Plan Review. ET Care can help you build the case with evidence from your documents.
This is general information based on published government rules as at March 2026. It is not personal financial advice. Individual costs depend on income, assets, and care needs. We recommend consulting a qualified financial adviser before making decisions involving significant sums.