Classification

A person’s classification is one key part of deciding the funding amount for their aged care services. 

[Chapter 2 – Part 3]

The approved needs assessor considers classification as part of the needs assessment. They include it in their report to the delegate. 

The classification assessment includes a classification type, and in most cases a classification level. Classification levels for ongoing (permanent) residential care are assigned at a later point.

Classification type

The classification types refer to how long the person needs care:

• Ongoing: when the person’s need is ongoing and access to services shouldn’t have a time limit.
• Short-term: when the person needs access to services for a set period of time, such as for restorative care, end-of-life care, or one-off services like buying aids or equipment.
• Hospital transition: when the person needs access to services through the Transition Care Program.

Classification level

Classification level is based on the level of care an older person needs. There are different classification levels for each service group, depending on the classification type. For example, there are 8 classification levels for ongoing home support services, and 2 for short-term home support services. The Rules set out the classification levels and how they are worked out.

The delegate decides the classification level for a classification type based on the assessment report. The delegate must give notice and information to the older person about their classification within 14 days. This may be given at the same time as the notice of approval to access services. 

An older person or a registered provider can apply to get the classification level reassessed if needed.

A decision about a classification level for an older person is a reviewable decision.