Supporting older Australians to thrive with dignity
Navigating your funded aged care journey with confidence
Navigating the Australian aged care system can feel like trying to find your way through a maze without a map. Where do you start? What funding are you eligible for? And how do you ensure your choices are truly respected?
A Foreword to Older Australians & Families
My Care, My Way is the definitive, one-stop solution to the complex world of government-funded aged care. Designed to cut through the bureaucratic jargon, this essential guide answers the exact questions older Australians, their families, and decision-makers face every day.

Whether you are just beginning to explore your options or managing an immediate transition in care, this book provides clear, actionable steps to help you take control of the process.
Express Your Interest See Our Resources and References
Your Journey Through Funded Aged Care
Foreword by
Rachael Wass
CEO | Meaningful Ageing Australia
Step 1 - Recognising the Need

Talk to your GP (book a long appointment).

Research care on the My Aged Care portal.

Contact an advocacy agency like OPAN.

Step 2 - Initial Contact & ACAT

Prepare proof of identity & Medicare card.

Request an AUSLAN or multicultural interpreter.

Have a support person or friend present.

Step 3 - Choosing & Onboarding

Check provider star ratings & report logs.

Thoroughly review the Service Agreement.

Ask for and read the Client Handbook.

Step 4 - Delivery & Monitoring

Request budget reviews with your manager.

Provide direct feedback to the provider.

Escalate to Quality & Safety Commission if needed.

An invaluable resource for families and a trusted handbook for aged care health professionals alike, My Care, My Way replaces confusion with clarity and anxiety with peace of mind. Because it’s your life, your future and your care, done your way.
Meet Your Expert Authors
  • Cynthia Payne
    Founder, Anchor Impact Group
    35 Years for Australian Aged Care
    Cynthia Payne is a distinguished leader, director, and 35-year veteran of the Australian aged care sector. Her career has been singularly defined by an unwavering commitment to the Older Person Experience.
  • Carla Beheram
    Risk & Assurance Lead
    Devoted Registered Nurse & Operational Leader
    With 20+ years of management expertise, Carla focuses on operational excellence. She uses evidence-based practices to empower leadership teams and improve developmental outcomes for individuals and families.
  • Dr Shae Hourigan
    Practice Lead, Policy & Academy
    Bridging the Gap Between Medicine, Law, and Care
    Shae is a multi-disciplinary leader and advocate dedicated to bridging the gap between complex clinical governance and the lived experience of vulnerable Australians. Shae leverages a unique professional background spanning medicine, law, and government to ensure healthcare is both safe and accessible.
  • Dr Irene Stein
    Aged Care Scholar & Researcher
    Over 40 Years of Academic and Advocacy Expertise
    As a former Professor of Aged Care, Irene has published widely and supervised postgraduate students in the field of aged care service compliance outcomes and clinical safety. One of her mantras is “it just should not happen to an older person receiving care.”
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