NDIS vs Aged Care in 2026: Eligibility, Funding and Turning 65
If you or a family member needs help with everyday life, it can be difficult to know whether to start with the NDIS or My Aged Care. Both systems can support daily activities, but they have different entry requirements, assessment processes and funding arrangements.
Age matters, although it is not the whole decision. An existing NDIS participant approaching 65 is in a different position from someone seeking NDIS access for the first time at 67.
This guide explains the main differences and the questions to ask before changing arrangements. Eligibility and funded services must be confirmed by the relevant agency for your circumstances.
What is the main difference?
The NDIS provides eligible disability-related supports through an individual plan. Access depends on meeting its requirements, including age, residence and disability or early intervention criteria. A diagnosis or a need for help does not automatically establish eligibility. Start with the official NDIS eligibility requirements.
Government-funded aged care supports eligible older people with assessed care needs. My Aged Care is the entry point for information and assessment. It is not one single package of services, and older people with disability may also receive support through this system.
NDIS and aged care eligibility at a glance
| Question | NDIS | Government-funded aged care |
|---|---|---|
| Age at first application | You must be younger than 65 on the day you apply. | Generally 65 or older; specified groups can access assessment from 50. |
| What else matters? | Residence and disability or early intervention requirements. | Care needs and the applicable assessment requirements. |
| How is support arranged? | An NDIS plan identifies approved supports and funding. | Assessment identifies eligibility and suitable programs or services. |
| Examples of pathways | Individual disability supports and therapies, where funded. | CHSP, Support at Home and residential aged care, where approved. |
| Where to start | NDIA or an NDIS partner. | My Aged Care. |
The age rules come from the NDIS age requirements and My Aged Care assessment requirements. An Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person aged 50 or older, or someone aged 50 or older who is homeless or at risk of homelessness, may qualify for an aged care assessment when care needs are present.
The earlier aged care threshold does not change the NDIS application age limit for First Nations people. Ask about the options available in your circumstances rather than assuming one birthday decides every aspect of eligibility.
What happens if you turn 65 while on the NDIS?
Turning 65 does not automatically end existing NDIS participation. The NDIA explains that current participants can choose to continue using NDIS supports or change to aged care, subject to the applicable rules. New applicants aged 65 or over cannot apply to join.
A permanent move into residential aged care after turning 65 has different consequences: the NDIA says you must leave the NDIS. See its residential aged care guidance before making a decision.
Do not assume you can leave now and simply reapply later. Ask the NDIA to explain the effect of a proposed change on your participation, and get individual advice before ending existing arrangements.
Which aged care programs are available in 2026?
Your assessment determines what may be appropriate. Three pathways to understand are:
- Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP): entry-level help for eligible people living at home. See the CHSP guide.
- Support at Home: coordinated support at home, including for more complex needs. It replaced Home Care Packages and the Short-term Restorative Care Programme in November 2025. See the current program guide.
- Residential aged care: care and accommodation in an aged care home, with its own assessment and cost arrangements.
An older article referring to four Home Care Package levels may not explain the current application pathway. Use current program information when comparing the services you could actually receive.
How do funding and personal costs differ?
An NDIS plan funds approved disability-related supports; it is not general income for all household or healthcare expenses. Aged care arrangements depend on the program, approved services, provider prices and applicable contributions.
For Support at Home, the amount you contribute can depend on the service and your financial circumstances, with transition arrangements for some people. As at October 2026, clinical supports are government-funded, and approved personal care services have no participant contribution from 1 October 2026. Other service contributions can still apply. Check My Aged Care’s current contribution guidance.
Compare a proposed weekly schedule of care and its personal cost, rather than assuming a headline budget shows which option is better. Ask what is included, what is unavailable and when services could start.
NDIS vs. Aged Care: Can you receive both together?
The NDIA’s age guidance says participants choosing between ongoing NDIS and aged care supports cannot use both at the same time. If you have an existing or unusual arrangement, ask both agencies to explain how the rules apply before changing services.
Do not assume the same support can be billed to both systems, or that an aged care assessment automatically cancels your current plan. Ask exactly which action would change your status and when it would take effect.
A checklist before changing support pathways
Use this with your chosen supporter, coordinator or adviser:
- Record current support. List the tasks, hours, equipment and services you rely on, including unpaid help.
- Describe changing needs. Note what has become harder and which supports are no longer sufficient.
- Confirm eligibility and consequences. Ask the relevant agency for a clear explanation of the proposed pathway and any effect on NDIS participation.
- Check service availability and cost. Identify providers, start dates, personal contributions and any support gaps.
- Agree on a transition plan. Clarify who is coordinating it and how essential support will continue during the change.
The support I must have in place: ____________________
The question still needing an answer: ____________________
The person or agency responsible for confirming it: ____________________
Where should you start?
If you are considering NDIS access, check its eligibility guidance and seek help with the application before the age cut-off if relevant. If you already participate, speak with your my NDIS contact about changed needs before assuming a move to aged care is required.
For aged care, apply for an assessment through My Aged Care or call 1800 200 422. With your permission, someone you trust can help you prepare and explain your situation.
You can also contact Above & Beyond Carers to ask whether its current services match your support needs and Sydney location. Confirm service scope and funding arrangements directly. The next step should be based on your assessed needs and a clear plan for receiving the help you rely on.
