What to do if your home care provider shuts down
The sudden closure of Melbourne-based Annecto last week – a major provider with over 3,000 clients – has raised serious concerns across the aged care and disability sectors.
If a provider of that size can close its doors, many older Australians and families are asking: what happens if my provider shuts down?
To help answer that, the Australian Government’s Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has released a new fact sheet: “What happens when your provider closes.”
What the provider must do
If your provider is closing, they are legally required to:
· Notify the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
· Inform you when they will stop providing your care
They should also:
· Help you understand your rights
· Support you in finding a new provider (though you’re not required to go with their suggested option)
What you can do
If you’d prefer to find a new provider yourself, the Government recommends:
· Visiting My Aged Care
· Or calling 1800 200 422 for support
They can help you explore your options and connect with a new approved provider.
What support is available?
If you receive care through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), the Government says you might be able to access temporary support through this program while you’re being transitioned to a new provider.
The Department has also confirmed:
“We will support other providers in your area if your provider is closing. This will make sure there are other services you can use. Your new provider will work with your old provider before they close.”
This means efforts will be made to minimise disruption to your care – and to ensure your support continues smoothly.
Need help now?
Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or speak with a family member or advocate if you're unsure where to start.
You have the right to safe, continuous care – even if your provider closes.
