If you are exploring aged care options in Australia, one of the first steps is getting assessed. But there are two different types of assessment, and the one you receive determines what services you can access. Understanding the difference between a RAS assessment and an ACAT assessment can save you weeks of confusion and help you get the right level of support faster.

This guide breaks down both assessment types in detail, compares them side by side, and explains what the new Single Assessment System means for anyone seeking aged care in 2026.

Important update: As of 9 December 2024, the Australian Government transitioned RAS and ACAT into a new Single Assessment System workforce. RAS assessments are now called “home support assessments” and ACAT assessments are now called “comprehensive assessments.” This guide covers both the legacy terminology and the new system.

Key points

  • RAS (Regional Assessment Service) assesses for basic, entry-level support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
  • ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) assesses for more complex needs including Home Care Packages, residential aged care, and respite
  • You do not choose which assessment you get. My Aged Care determines this based on your initial screening call
  • Both assessments are free and usually take place in your home
  • From December 2024, a Single Assessment System workforce has replaced the separate RAS and ACAT teams
  • Existing RAS and ACAT approvals remain valid during the transition period

What is a RAS assessment?

A RAS assessment (Regional Assessment Service) is designed for older Australians who need basic support to continue living independently at home. It is the entry-level assessment in the aged care system.

RAS assessments determine eligibility for services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). These are typically lower-intensity services that help with specific tasks rather than providing comprehensive ongoing care.

What RAS assesses

During a RAS assessment, the assessor looks at:

  • Your ability to perform daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care
  • Any mobility or transport challenges you face
  • Your social connections and risk of isolation
  • Your home environment and any safety concerns
  • Whether basic support services would meet your needs
  • Your goals and what you want to achieve with support

Who gets a RAS assessment

You will typically be directed to a RAS assessment if:

  • You are 65 years or older (50 or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
  • You need help with one or two specific tasks
  • Your needs are relatively straightforward
  • You can mostly manage day-to-day life with some targeted assistance
  • You are not at immediate risk of needing residential care

Services unlocked by RAS

A successful RAS assessment gives you access to CHSP services, which include:

  • Domestic assistance (cleaning, laundry, meal preparation)
  • Personal care (showering, dressing, grooming)
  • Social support (group activities, one-on-one companionship)
  • Home maintenance and modifications
  • Transport to appointments
  • Allied health services (physiotherapy, podiatry)
  • Nursing care (basic clinical support)
  • Meals on Wheels and other food services
  • Respite for carers (limited)

CHSP services are subsidised by the government, meaning you may pay a small contribution fee. These services are delivered on an ongoing basis but are not designed for people with complex or escalating care needs.

What is an ACAT assessment?

An ACAT assessment (Aged Care Assessment Team) is a comprehensive clinical evaluation for older Australians with more complex care needs. It is the gateway to higher levels of government-funded aged care.

ACAT assessments determine eligibility for Home Care Packages, residential aged care (nursing homes), respite care, and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC). For a detailed breakdown of what each Home Care Package level provides, see our complete guide to ACAT assessment levels.

What ACAT assesses

An ACAT assessment is more thorough than a RAS assessment. The assessor evaluates:

  • Your physical health, including chronic conditions and medications
  • Cognitive function, including memory and decision-making ability
  • Psychological wellbeing, including depression and anxiety screening
  • Daily living activities and the level of assistance you need
  • Behavioural concerns, if any
  • Your social situation and support network
  • Current informal care arrangements and carer stress
  • Home environment and safety risks
  • Your preferences for care (home-based or residential)
  • Cultural, linguistic, and spiritual needs

Who gets an ACAT assessment

You will be directed to an ACAT assessment if:

  • You have multiple or complex care needs
  • Your needs are escalating and basic CHSP services are no longer sufficient
  • You may need a Home Care Package (Levels 1 through 4)
  • You are considering residential aged care or a nursing home
  • You need respite care or transition care after a hospital stay
  • You have a cognitive condition such as dementia that requires specialised support

Services unlocked by ACAT

A successful ACAT assessment opens access to:

  • Home Care Packages (Levels 1 to 4), with annual funding ranging from approximately $10,271 to $62,589 per year
  • Residential aged care (permanent placement in a nursing home or aged care facility)
  • Respite care (temporary residential care to give carers a break)
  • Short-Term Restorative Care (time-limited intensive support to improve independence)
  • Transition care (support after a hospital stay before returning home)

For a full breakdown of Home Care Package funding and what each level covers, visit our Home Care Packages guide.

RAS vs ACAT: Comparison table

FeatureRAS AssessmentACAT Assessment
Full nameRegional Assessment ServiceAged Care Assessment Team
New name (2024+)Home support assessmentComprehensive assessment
PurposeAssess for basic support needsAssess for complex care needs
Assessor typeNon-clinician assessorsClinical team (nurses, allied health, social workers)
Duration30 to 60 minutes1 to 2 hours
LocationYour homeYour home (or hospital if inpatient)
CostFreeFree
Services unlockedCHSP (entry-level services)Home Care Packages, residential care, respite, STRC
Funding levelSubsidised individual servicesPackage funding ($10K to $63K per year)
Wait time for assessment2 to 6 weeks2 to 12 weeks (varies by region)
Wait time for resultsUsually within 2 weeks2 to 4 weeks
Approval validityOngoing (reviewed periodically)12 months to find a provider; package approval does not expire
Can be done in hospitalNoYes (priority assessments available)
Reassessment availableYes, if needs changeYes, if needs change or you want a higher level

What to expect: RAS

Before the assessment

After you contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 and complete the initial screening, you will be referred for a RAS assessment if your needs are straightforward. You will receive a phone call from your local RAS provider to schedule a visit.

For step-by-step instructions on registering with My Aged Care, see our My Aged Care registration guide.

During the assessment

A RAS assessor will visit you at home. The conversation is informal and focuses on understanding your daily routine and where you need help. Expect the assessor to:

  • Ask about your typical day and any tasks you struggle with
  • Discuss your health conditions and how they affect daily life
  • Walk through your home to check for safety hazards
  • Ask about your social connections and support from family or friends
  • Talk about your goals. What would make the biggest difference in your day-to-day life?

The assessment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You can have a family member, friend, or carer present for support.

After the assessment

The assessor will recommend specific CHSP services based on your needs. You will receive a support plan and can then choose a service provider in your area. Services can usually start within a few weeks of the assessment.

If the RAS assessor determines your needs are more complex than expected, they can refer you directly for an ACAT assessment. You do not need to go back through My Aged Care in this case.

What to expect: ACAT

Before the assessment

If My Aged Care determines you need an ACAT assessment, you will be referred to your local ACAT. Wait times vary significantly by region. In metropolitan areas, you might wait 2 to 6 weeks. In regional or remote areas, waits of 8 to 12 weeks are not uncommon.

While waiting, gather the following:

  • A list of all medications you take
  • Details of any recent hospital visits or specialist appointments
  • Your Medicare card and any pension or concession cards
  • Contact details for your GP and any specialists
  • A list of services you already receive (if any)

During the assessment

An ACAT assessment is more detailed and clinical. The assessor is a qualified health professional, often a registered nurse, social worker, or occupational therapist. They will:

  • Conduct a thorough health assessment, including questions about your medical history
  • Assess your cognitive function (memory, orientation, problem-solving)
  • Evaluate your mobility, balance, and fall risk
  • Assess your ability to manage personal care, medications, and finances
  • Discuss your emotional wellbeing and mental health
  • Talk to your carer or family members about the support they provide and any strain they are under
  • Discuss your preferences for care: do you want to stay at home, or are you considering residential care?

The assessment typically takes 1 to 2 hours. It can feel lengthy, but the depth of the assessment directly influences the level of support you are approved for.

Tip: Be honest about your worst days, not just your best. Many people understate their needs during the assessment because they want to appear capable. This can result in being approved for a lower level of care than you actually need.

After the assessment

The ACAT will issue an approval letter outlining the services and care levels you are eligible for. This typically arrives within 2 to 4 weeks. In urgent situations, such as after a hospital discharge, priority processing can provide results within days.

If you are approved for a Home Care Package, you will be placed in the national priority queue. Wait times for packages vary by level. Level 1 and 2 packages are often available within weeks to months, while Level 3 and 4 packages can take 3 to 12 months or longer.

How to prepare for either

Regardless of whether you are having a RAS or ACAT assessment, preparation makes a significant difference. Here is how to get the best outcome.

1. Describe your worst days

Assessors need an accurate picture of your needs. If you have good days and bad days, describe the bad days in detail. Many older Australians minimise their difficulties out of pride or habit, and this often results in lower levels of support than they actually need.

2. Keep a diary for a week

Before the assessment, write down every task you struggle with, every time you need help, and any incidents such as falls, confusion, or difficulty managing medications. This gives the assessor concrete examples rather than general statements.

3. Have a support person present

A family member, carer, or friend who knows your daily routine can provide valuable context the assessor might not get from you alone. Carers often notice things the person being assessed does not mention.

4. Prepare your documents

Have the following ready:

  • Medicare card
  • Pension or DVA card (if applicable)
  • List of current medications
  • GP contact details
  • Any recent hospital discharge summaries
  • Details of services you currently receive

5. Think about your goals

Both assessments will ask what you want to achieve. Think about this beforehand. Do you want to stay in your home as long as possible? Do you want to be more socially connected? Are there specific activities you want to get back to? Clear goals help assessors recommend the right services.

6. Be prepared for personal questions

The assessor may ask about your finances, living situation, and emotional wellbeing. These questions help determine the level of government subsidy you are entitled to and ensure you receive appropriate support. You can decline to answer, but providing accurate information generally leads to better outcomes.

Tips for the right outcome

If you think you need more than CHSP

If you believe your needs are complex enough for a Home Care Package but are referred for a RAS assessment, you can:

  • Request a reassessment through My Aged Care at any time
  • Ask the RAS assessor to refer you for an ACAT assessment if they agree your needs warrant it
  • Contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to discuss your concerns
  • Engage an aged care advocate (free service) to support your case

If you disagree with the outcome

You have the right to request a review of any assessment decision. Contact My Aged Care to request a reassessment. You can also contact the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) on 1800 700 600 for free, independent advocacy support.

If your needs change after assessment

Aged care needs often change over time. If your health deteriorates or your circumstances shift, do not wait. Contact My Aged Care to request a reassessment. Common triggers for reassessment include:

  • A fall or hospitalisation
  • A new diagnosis (such as dementia, stroke, or cancer)
  • Loss of a carer or partner
  • Significant decline in mobility or cognitive function
  • Current services no longer meeting your needs

The new Single Assessment System

What changed in December 2024

On 9 December 2024, the Australian Government launched the Single Assessment System, merging the separate RAS and ACAT workforces into one unified assessment team. This was one of the largest reforms to the aged care assessment process in decades.

Under the new system:

  • RAS assessments are now called home support assessments
  • ACAT assessments are now called comprehensive assessments
  • All assessors are trained to conduct both types of assessment
  • You no longer need to change assessment providers as your needs evolve
  • The same assessor or organisation can manage your care from entry-level support through to comprehensive assessment

Why the change was made

The previous two-tier system created several problems:

  • People had to start the process from scratch when moving from CHSP to Home Care Packages
  • Different organisations conducted each assessment, causing delays and repeated questions
  • There was no continuity of care between the two assessment pathways
  • Wait times were often long, particularly for ACAT assessments in regional areas

The Single Assessment System aims to fix these issues by creating a seamless pathway from initial contact through to comprehensive assessment, all managed by one workforce.

The IAT controversy (2026)

In early 2026, concerns emerged about the new Independent Assessment Tool (IAT) used within the Single Assessment System. According to reports from The Guardian Australia and ABC News in February 2026, calls to advocacy services surged by 50% following the IAT’s introduction. Aged care workers have raised concerns that the algorithm-based tool can underestimate support needs and limits the ability of experienced assessors to apply clinical judgment.

The Federal Government has stated it is “actively monitoring” the new assessment processes. If you are concerned about your assessment outcome under the new system, contact the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) on 1800 700 600 for independent support.

Support at Home program

The Single Assessment System is part of a broader set of aged care reforms. The Support at Home program will replace Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care from 1 November 2025. The CHSP will transition to Support at Home no earlier than 1 July 2027.

Price caps for each service type were scheduled to begin on 1 July 2026 but have been deferred, with no confirmed new date. Bans on separate entry and exit fees still apply, and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission can order refunds where providers overcharge. The caps are designed to increase transparency and reduce out-of-pocket costs for consumers once they take effect.

When to request reassessment

You can request a reassessment at any time if your care needs have changed. Here are the most common situations where reassessment is appropriate.

Moving from CHSP to a Home Care Package

If you were originally assessed by RAS (or received a home support assessment) and your needs have increased, you can request a comprehensive assessment. This is the most common reason for reassessment. Signs that you might need to move to a Home Care Package include:

  • You are receiving the maximum CHSP services available but still need more help
  • You need coordinated support across multiple service types
  • Your care needs are becoming more complex or clinical
  • You require more hours of support than CHSP can provide

Requesting a higher package level

If you have a Home Care Package but your needs have grown beyond what your current level covers, you can request reassessment for a higher level. For example, moving from Level 2 (low-level needs, approximately $17,667 per year) to Level 3 (intermediate needs, approximately $38,517 per year) provides significantly more funding and a broader range of services.

After a major health event

A hospital stay, new diagnosis, fall, or significant decline in function are all valid reasons to request urgent reassessment. In these cases, you may be eligible for priority processing, which can significantly reduce wait times.

If you were assessed under the old system

If your last assessment was conducted before December 2024 under the old RAS or ACAT system, your existing approvals remain valid. However, if you need a new assessment or reassessment, it will be conducted under the new Single Assessment System.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between RAS and ACAT?

RAS (Regional Assessment Service) is for basic support needs and gives access to CHSP services such as domestic help, transport, and personal care. ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) is for more complex needs and gives access to Home Care Packages (Levels 1 through 4), residential aged care, respite care, and Short-Term Restorative Care. The key distinction is the level of care complexity and the services each assessment unlocks.

How long does an ACAT assessment take?

An ACAT assessment (now called a comprehensive assessment) typically takes 1 to 2 hours in your home. The duration depends on the complexity of your needs and how much information the assessor needs to gather. Results are usually available within 2 to 4 weeks. In urgent situations, such as hospital discharge, a priority assessment can be completed within days.

Can I be upgraded from RAS to ACAT?

Yes. If your needs increase after a RAS assessment, you can be referred for an ACAT assessment at any time. You can either ask your current service provider to request a referral, or contact My Aged Care directly on 1800 200 422 to request a reassessment. Under the new Single Assessment System, this process is more streamlined because the same workforce handles both types of assessment.

Do I choose which assessment I get?

No. My Aged Care determines which assessment you need based on the information gathered during the initial screening phone call. If your needs are basic and straightforward, you will be referred for a home support assessment (formerly RAS). If your needs are more complex, you will be referred for a comprehensive assessment (formerly ACAT). If you believe you have been referred for the wrong type, you can request a review through My Aged Care.

Is the new single assessment replacing RAS and ACAT?

Yes. As of 9 December 2024, the Single Assessment System workforce has replaced both RAS and ACAT. RAS assessments are now called home support assessments, and ACAT assessments are now called comprehensive assessments. The transition aims to create a seamless experience where you do not need to change assessment providers as your needs change over time.

How much does an aged care assessment cost?

Both RAS and ACAT assessments are completely free. There is no charge for the assessment itself, regardless of the type. You may be asked to contribute to the cost of services you receive after the assessment, but the assessment process is funded by the Australian Government.

Can I have someone with me during the assessment?

Yes, and it is strongly recommended. Having a family member, carer, friend, or advocate present can help ensure the assessor gets a complete picture of your needs. Your support person can provide additional context about your daily challenges and help you remember important details.

What if I am in hospital and need an assessment?

If you are in hospital and need aged care services before you can be discharged, a comprehensive assessment (formerly ACAT) can be conducted at your bedside. Hospital-based assessments are treated as priority cases, and results can be available within days rather than weeks. Ask the hospital social worker to arrange this.

Key resources

How Carevo can help

Navigating the aged care assessment process can feel overwhelming, especially when you are unsure which services you need or how to prepare. Carevo connects older Australians and their families with experienced aged care providers who can support you before, during, and after your assessment.

Whether you have been approved for CHSP services after a home support assessment or you are waiting for a Home Care Package following a comprehensive assessment, we can help you find the right provider in your area.

Ready to find aged care support? Browse trusted providers on our aged care services page or call 1800 953 253 to find the right provider through Carevo.