We understand, the cost for living in a residential care home does seem high, however a bit of a reality check shows that it’s not at all.
The following is a comparison with someone living in a hotel and buying in home support services three times a week. No other activities such as therapy, entertainment or outings are included. To meet some of these social needs the person could go out to a subsidised day programme. (The transport cost and a top up fee is usually additional.)
If the person has been assessed and is eligible for support, some of the home support services such as personal care and a day programme, may be subsidised.
Example of someone receiving home support services in 3-star serviced hotel with kitchenette. Pricing is variable and indicative only.
| Requirements |
Price |
Per week incl. GST | Per year incl. GST |
|
3 Star Serviced apartment in a hotel |
$140 incl GST per day | $980 | $50,960 |
| Groceries, prepared & frozen meals | $20 incl GST per day (includes delivery) |
$140 |
$7,280 |
| Personal laundry etc | $45 incl GST (1x week - e.g., laundrette) | $45 | $2,340 |
| Personal care/support | $55 incl GST (3x week - e.g., home support service) | $165 | $8,580 |
| Support workers transport costs | 72 cents per km incl GST (8.4 km round trip - 3x per week) | $18.14 | $943.28 |
| TOTAL | $1,348.14 | $70,103.28 |
Updated: 31 Jan 2023