Published by Dyirri-Bang-Gu Aged Care Services, Griffith NSW
Estimated reading time: 10–12 minutes
Australia’s aged care system can be complex to navigate—especially if you’re just getting started. Whether you’re looking for support for yourself, a parent, or an Elder in your community, understanding what services are available, how rights are protected, and how cultural needs are respected is essential.
At Dyirri-Bang-Gu Aged Care Services, we support older people and Aboriginal Elders to live safely and with dignity in their homes. In this article, we explore the key areas every older person, carer, and family member should understand about the aged care system in Australia.
1. Understanding Aged Care Services in Australia
Aged care services in Australia are designed to support older individuals who may require assistance with daily living tasks, manage health conditions, or maintain their independence at home.
What is Aged Care?
Aged care refers to support services that help older people with:
- Personal care (showering, dressing, grooming)
- Meal preparation and delivery
- Medication management
- Home cleaning and maintenance
- Transport and mobility
- Allied health (e.g. physiotherapy, podiatry)
- Nursing and palliative care
- Social support and companionship
Types of Aged Care Services
There are several levels of aged care services depending on a person’s needs:
1. Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)
This is entry-level support for older adults who require some assistance at home. It includes services like cleaning, shopping, or transport.
2. Home Care Packages (HCP)/ Support at Home Program (SaH) (since 1 November 2025)
Home Care Packages provide more comprehensive support and are designed to meet complex or ongoing needs. There are four levels of funding, from basic to high-care needs. Recipients approved or allocated funding before September 2025 remain under HCP; new recipients (approved or allocated funding since September 2025) will receive subsidised assistance through the SaH Program
Eligibility – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander seniors/ Elders may be eligible for Aged Care services once 50 years of age or older. Non-Aboriginal seniors may be eligible at 65 years of age or older.
3. Residential Aged Care
Also known as nursing homes, this is for people who can no longer live independently and need 24/7 care.
4. NDIS for Older People Under 65
People with a disability under 65 may access support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Tip: Services are accessed through My Aged Care. You’ll need an ACAT assessment to get started.
2. Your Rights Under Consumer Directed Care (CDC)
Australia’s aged care system operates under a Consumer Directed Care model. This means you have the right to make choices about your care—what support you receive, who provides it, and how it’s delivered.
Key Rights You Have as a Care Recipient
- Control and Choice
You choose your service provider, the type of services you need, and when and how they are delivered. - Transparency of Costs
Your provider must explain how your budget is used and provide clear pricing. - Respect and Dignity
You have the right to be treated with respect and to have your cultural, spiritual, and personal values acknowledged. - Complaints and Advocacy
If something isn’t right, you can speak up. Services must provide a fair and accessible complaints process. - Involvement in Planning
You are an active participant in designing your care plan.
At Dyirri-Bang-Gu Aged Care, we ensure every client understands their rights and feels empowered to speak up and shape their care journey.
3. Cultural Safety in Aged Care
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander seniors and Elders, Cultural safety is more than just a value;it is a fundamental right.
What is Cultural Safety?
Cultural safety means creating a space where individuals feel respected, understood, and safe to express their identity. In aged care, this includes:
- Staff understanding and respecting cultural protocols
- Access to care that recognises connection to land, language, and community
- Supporting traditional food, healing practices, or spiritual care
- Being cared for by people who understand your lived experience
Why It Matters
Many Aboriginal Elders have faced trauma, institutional racism, or displacement throughout their lives. For aged care to be effective, it must be more than clinical—it must be culturally responsive and led by community.
At Dyirri-Bang-Gu Aged Care, our team includes First Nations staff and works closely with local community members to ensure services are safe, respectful, and built on trust.
4. Community Events and Health Education
Staying informed and connected is vital to living well, especially for older people. Community-based programs play a key role in aged care by offering opportunities for:
- Health education
- Physical activity and falls prevention
- Dementia awareness sessions
- Cultural gatherings and yarning circles
- Men’s and women’s groups
- Healthy cooking and nutrition classes
Benefits of Community Engagement
- Reduced social isolation
- Improved mental health
- Stronger connection to culture and community
- Early detection of health issues
In Griffith and surrounding areas, Dyirri-Bang-Gu Aged Care hosts encourage clients to participate in regular community health and wellbeing events. We partner with local organisations and Aboriginal health services to deliver workshops, NAIDOC events, and social activities.
5. Practical Tips for Living Independently at Home
Remaining at home is often the preferred choice for Elders and older people. Here are some simple yet effective strategies to help you or your loved one live safely and independently.
Personal Safety
- Install grab rails in bathrooms and hallways
- Use non-slip mats in wet areas
- Ensure adequate lighting in all rooms
- Keep essential items within easy reach
- Use a personal alarm or phone with emergency features
Health and Wellbeing
- Stay active with gentle exercises (e.g., walking, stretching, tai chi)
- Eat regular, nutritious meals
- Keep up with medical appointments and medication
- Stay hydrated and avoid too much sugar or salt
- Seek support early for mental health or memory concerns
Household Help
- Use home cleaning or gardening services
- Get help with grocery shopping and meal prep
- Arrange transport to appointments or community groups
- Use aids and appliances to reduce strain (e.g. electric kettles, walkers)
Tip: These services can be included in your care plan through CHSP or HCP / SaH programs.
Summary: Key Takeaways
| Area | Key Message |
| Understanding Aged Care | Know the different programs: CHSP, HCP, SaH, Residential |
| Rights | You control your care – it’s your right under CDC |
| Culture | Cultural safety is essential, especially for First Nations Elders |
| Community | Stay involved for health, well-being, and connection |
| Independence | Small supports make a big difference at home |
Navigating aged care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information and culturally appropriate support, you can make choices that protect your health, independence, and identity.
At Dyirri-Bang-Gu Aged Care Services, we walk with you through every step—offering clarity, respect, and a genuine commitment to quality care for all.
Navigating aged care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information and culturally appropriate support, you can make choices that protect your health, independence, and identity.
At Dyirri-Bang-Gu Aged Care Services, we walk with you through every step—offering clarity, respect, and a genuine commitment to quality care for all.
Need Help?
If you or a loved one would like to learn more about aged care services, eligibility, or care options, we’re here to help.
Contact Us
- Phone: 0427 102 605
- Email: info@dyirribanggu.org.au
- Visit: 6 Bonegilla Road, Griffith NSW
- Submit a Referral or Enquiry
