Self-management gives you more control over your care — who delivers it, when, and how your budget is spent. Here is what it means, who it suits, and what responsibilities come with it.
Providers typically charge 15–35% of your annual package budget for administration and case management (Source: My Aged Care). On a Level 4 package ($59,594/year), that is $8,939–$20,858 in fees before a single hour of care is delivered. Self-management reduces this — but comes with real responsibilities.
| Feature | Self-managed | Provider-managed |
|---|---|---|
| Who arranges workers | You | Provider |
| Administrative burden | High | Low |
| Flexibility | Maximum | Moderate |
| Management fees | Lower (typically 8–15%) | Higher (typically 15–35%) |
| Best for | Active, organised people | Those who want hands-off care |
| Risk if worker cancels | You source a replacement | Provider covers the gap |
| Employer obligations | You (if hiring direct) | Provider handles |
Are you ready to self-manage?
If you answer yes to most of these, self-management may suit you:
Self-management is not just choosing your own workers. Each month you are responsible for a set of ongoing tasks that a provider would otherwise handle for you.
Approve invoices
Review and authorise worker invoices each pay period. Keep records in case of a government audit.
Track your budget
Monitor your package balance regularly to ensure you do not overspend or underspend your annual allocation.
Verify qualifications
Ensure all workers hold current police checks, first aid certificates, and any required training for their role.
Manage incidents
If something goes wrong, you may be required to report it through the Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS).
Maintain records
Keep worker agreements, rosters, and service records accessible for potential audits by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
Update your care plan
Review and update your care plan as needs change, in consultation with your provider's case manager.
Important: You still need an approved Support at Home provider to hold your package funds and be legally responsible for the program. You cannot self-manage without a registered provider as the “fund holder” — even under full self-management.
The three self-management models
Fully self-managed
You arrange all workers, manage scheduling, handle invoices, and direct all services. Provider holds funds and fulfils compliance obligations.
Co-managed
Responsibilities are split between you and the provider. You choose workers; provider handles payroll and compliance reporting. A good middle ground.
Brokered
Provider holds funds and meets legal requirements. You direct which services you want and when, but workers are sourced through the provider's network.
Self-management is not suitable for everyone
If you are cognitively impaired, have complex clinical health needs, or do not have a family member who can provide hands-on administrative support, provider-managed care is likely to be safer and more reliable. Do not choose self-management because the fees look lower — the practical demands are real.
You do not need a new ACAT assessment to switch. Note that not all approved providers offer self-management — ask specifically before you sign up.
Request self-management
When choosing a new provider, ask if they support self-managed packages. If you are with an existing provider, ask directly — some offer it, many do not.
Confirm the self-management model offered
Ask which model they offer — fully self-managed, co-managed, or brokered. Get the management fee in writing before committing.
Sign an updated service agreement
The service agreement must be updated to reflect your self-management responsibilities. Read it carefully before signing.
Set up your worker arrangements
Engage workers directly or through an agency. Ensure agreements, police checks, and qualifications are in place before services start.
Connect to the budget portal
Your provider will give you access to a portal or reporting system to track your package balance in real time. Use it regularly.
WithSally can help you compare self-managed providers, understand the management fees, and find the option that gives you the most value from your package.
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