When your aged care needs change: reviews and changing provider

Published 12 October 2026 · Aged care · Source checked 12 October 2026

Needs change, and aged care can change with them. Here is how to ask for a review or reassessment and how to change provider.

Needs change, and so can the arrangement

Health, mobility, family circumstances and where you live all change over time. When they do, you may want to change when services happen, the services themselves or the provider. The official guidance is clear that you have the right to make changes at any time to suit your needs and preferences.

Start by telling your provider

The first step is to tell your provider what has changed. They can work with you to see whether they can meet your new needs within what you are approved for, or whether you need a support plan review or a reassessment to be approved for different or additional services.

For in-home services, you can ask to change the mix of services you receive. Keep a note of what you asked for and what was agreed.

Reviews and reassessments

A review looks again at your support plan, and a reassessment is a fuller look at your needs. Which is appropriate depends on how much has changed. The official page explains when each may apply and how to ask.

Changing provider

You can change provider if you are moving, if your current provider does not offer what you now need or if you are simply not happy. Line up the new provider first, check any notice terms in your agreement and give notice in writing. Ask for a smooth handover so routines and preferences are not lost.

You can update your own details and your registered supporters through your My Aged Care online account. This is general information, not advice about your own services.

Keeping your information up to date

Your My Aged Care online account shows your approved services, referrals, waiting times and service charges, and lets you update personal details and supporters. Check it from time to time so that what the system holds matches what is actually happening.

If you cannot or prefer not to use it online, you can contact My Aged Care by phone or ask a supporter to help. Keep your own notes of calls and decisions with dates and names.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do when my aged care needs change?

Tell your provider what has changed. They can work with you to see whether they can meet your new needs within what you are approved for, or whether you need a support plan review or a reassessment to be approved for different or additional services. You have the right to make changes at any time to suit your needs and preferences.

What is the difference between a review and a reassessment?

A review looks again at your support plan, and a reassessment is a fuller look at your needs. Which is appropriate depends on how much has changed.

Can I change my aged care provider?

Yes, if you are moving, if your current provider does not offer what you now need or if you are simply not happy. Line up the new provider first, check any notice terms in your agreement and give notice in writing, and ask for a smooth handover so routines and preferences are not lost.

Keep learning

NDIS or My Aged Care: which system supports you?: Two government systems support people with disability and older people. Here is how to think about which one applies and what to do if you are not sure.
Support at Home explained: how in-home aged care works: Support at Home is the program that helps older people stay in their own homes. Here is how it works, from approval to choosing a provider.
Getting an aged care assessment: what to expect: The assessment is the first step to government-funded aged care. Here is how to apply, what the assessor does and what to do while you wait.
Choosing an aged care provider or home: what to compare: Star ratings are a good start, not the whole picture. Here is how to compare providers on quality, cost and fit.

More in our aged care support guide, our step-by-step guides, or the aged care providers listed on the My Aged Care register.

Official sources

Source checked 12 October 2026. Rules and guidance can change; verify current details with the responsible agency. How we write and check our guides.