Are you thinking about expanding into aged care? If you already operate in health or disability support, then My Aged Care provider registration can be a way to expand your business. But before you apply, it’s important to know the criteria in detail.
Approval isn’t a matter of filling out a form. The government wants only safe, reliable, and proven providers to stand behind older Australians. So, let us understand what it is all abou,t to start with the registration process.
Why Register with My Aged Care?
Registering gives you access to government-funded aged care programs.
Once approved, you can offer services like personal care, home help, nursing and allied health under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or Home Care Packages (HCP). That’s a big opportunity to be reaching more people, particularly with Australia’s ageing population expanding quickly.
But just like any other registration, there are rules, and you need to meet them before you’re eligible.
Meeting the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Let’s start with the foundation. To apply for My Aged Care provider registration, you need:
- A valid Australian Business Number (ABN)
- An operational business structure (sole trader, partnership, company, etc.)
- A service offering that matches the My Aged Care programs
- Staff and systems to manage care delivery, compliance, and safety
If you’ve already completed aged care business registration, some of these criteria might be familiar. But don’t assume your existing setup automatically qualifies; you’ll still need to prove compliance under aged care guidelines.
Proving Your Organisational Capability
This is where most applications get serious. You must demonstrate that your organisation has:
- Clear governance policies
- Effective financial management
- Risk management strategies
- Qualified staff with police checks and training
- Incident response systems
The Department of Health and Aged Care wants to see that you’re prepared not just in theory, but in daily practice. Have your documentation in order and ready to submit through the provider application portal.
Compliance with Quality and Safety Standards
You’re required to comply with the Aged Care Quality Standards, which cover:
- Consumer dignity and choice
- Ongoing assessment and planning
- Personal and clinical care
- Services and support for daily living
- Organisation’s service environment
- Feedback and complaints
- Human resources
- Organisational governance
Each standard ensures that clients receive high-quality care in a respectful, safe, and empowering environment. Your policies, training, and service model must all reflect these standards.
Financial Viability and Insurance
Financial stability matters. You’ll need to show that:
- You can operate sustainably
- You’ve got the right level of public liability and professional indemnity insurance
- You can manage funds received from the government
Having detailed financial statements and projections strengthens your application.
Technical and Digital Readiness
My Aged Care operates through online systems. As a provider, you’ll need:
- Access to the My Aged Care Provider Portal
- Digital reporting tools to manage referrals and services
- Systems to record client interactions and staff updates
Make sure your IT setup is ready to meet the digital demands of service delivery and government audits.
Fit and Proper Person Checks
All key personnel will undergo background assessments. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission checks:
- Criminal history
- Previous roles in failed aged care or NDIS organisations
- Evidence of ethical conduct
This ensures that only responsible people are entrusted with vulnerable community members.
Types of Services You Want to Offer
Finally, you need to be clear about the services you’ll provide. You can’t apply to deliver “everything.” Instead, you’ll choose from specific categories like:
- Domestic assistance
- Personal care
- Meal preparation
- Nursing
- Allied health
- Transport
- Respite care
Make sure your team is trained and your policies are tailored to each category you apply for.
Conclusion
Becoming an approved provider under the My Aged Care provider registration is more than just ticking boxes. It’s about proving you have the people, systems, and standards to support older Australians with respect and care.
If you’re ready to make a difference and grow your business in the process, start reviewing the eligibility checklist today. Preparation now will save you delays later.