Turning 65 can bring up a lot of questions about your NDIS supports. You might be unsure whether things will change or whether aged care will meet your needs. The good news is you don’t have to lose the supports that help you stay independent and connected. You just need to understand your options so you can choose what works best for your life.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what actually happens when you reach 65, how aged care funding compares, and how to transition without losing the support you rely on.
What Happens When You Turn 65 on the NDIS?
A lot of people spend time searching “what happens at 65 NDIS” because the rules can feel confusing. We’re here to reassure you: turning 65 doesn’t mean your NDIS supports suddenly stop. If you were already an NDIS participant before your 65th birthday, you can choose to stay on the scheme for life as long as you continue to meet the standard eligibility criteria. If you apply for the NDIS after turning 65, you’ll generally be directed to Australia’s aged care system instead.
Many participants choose to continue with their existing NDIS supports even after reaching 65. This because their NDIS funding meets their needs well, they have trusted support workers, and they value the choice and control the NDIS provides. Others choose to transition to aged care if their circumstances change or if they want access to aged care–specific supports. If you’re unsure which path is right for you, Achora’s Support Coordinators can help you review your plan, compare both systems, and decide what will best support your life and goals. If you’d like clarity, you’re always welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation with our team.
What Supports Continue After Age 65?
If you are already an NDIS participant:
You can continue receiving all supports in your plan
Support workers, personal care, community participation, therapies, assistive technology, home modifications, transport, and more remain available.
Your funding continues across Core, Capacity Building, and Capital
Your plan will still be reviewed, goals updated, and funding adjusted when needed.
You can still access new supports
If your needs change, you can still request increased funding or updated supports with NDIS evidence.
You maintain full choice and control
You do not lose your rights as an NDIS participant simply because you turned 65.
Where aged care becomes relevant is when participants begin needing age-related supports, such as:
- Home Care Packages
- Aged care respite
- Residential aged care
- Additional health or mobility supports
Your Support coordinator helps you understand how to blend or transition between programs without losing assistance.
NDIS vs Aged Care: What’s the Difference?
Many people search “NDIS vs aged care” because the systems can feel similar but function very differently.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
- Designed for people with a permanent disability under 65
- Funding is highly personalised and flexible
- Participants have strong choice and control
- Supports focus on independence, capacity, and community participation
- Large budgets are common for complex or high needs
Aged Care System
- Designed for people 65+ who need support due to ageing
- Funding comes via Home Care Packages and CHSP services
- Budgets are tiered, often lower than NDIS funding
- Supports focus on safety, daily living, and ageing in place
- Less flexibility compared to NDIS
How to Transition From the NDIS to Aged Care Without Losing Supports
Transitioning doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right preparation, you can move into aged care funding smoothly and maintain continuity of support.
Step 1 — Understand Your Eligibility
Before transitioning, check:
- Are your support needs primarily disability-related or age-related?
- Do you want to remain on the NDIS after 65?
- Would aged care services offer something your NDIS plan does not?
Achora’s Support Coordinators can help you evaluate your current funding and future needs. You can reach out at any time, but if you or a loved one are approaching 65, it’s best to plan ahead.
Step 2 — Get an Aged Care Assessment (ACAT)
To access aged care programs, you’ll need:
- An Aged Care Assessment (ACAT) for Home Care Packages or residential aged care
- An RAS assessment for entry-level supports
Step 3 — Plan Your Transition Timeline
The goal is seamless support. To achieve that:
- Keep your NDIS plan active until aged care funding is approved
- Ensure no gap occurs between services
- Transition supports gradually, if appropriate
Step 4 — Compare Budgets and Supports
NDIS budgets can differ significantly from aged care packages.
A comparison often shows:
- Higher levels of funding under NDIS
- More therapy and capacity-building services
- More customised support
Achora helps you understand where aged care may reduce, change, or restructure your supports, and how to minimise disruption.
Step 5 — Set Up New Supports and Providers
If you choose to move fully into aged care:
- Select providers
- Review service agreements
- Create a support schedule
- Cancel or transfer relevant NDIS supports
We will ensure your transition is safe, supported, and well-organised.
What Families and Carers Need to Prepare
To make your transition as smooth as possible, it helps to gather a few key details ahead of time. This includes recent therapy or medical reports, a list of your current supports and why you use them, and notes about which needs are disability-related versus age-related. It’s also useful to think about any cultural, community, or communication preferences you want respected, along with any questions you’d like to ask the ACAT assessor. Most importantly, be clear about your goals for independence, safety, and wellbeing. And if this feels like a lot to pull together, Achora can guide you and your family through the process so you can advocate confidently without feeling overwhelmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my NDIS funding when I turn 65?
No. If you were already an NDIS participant before 65, you can stay on the NDIS for life. Provided you meet the criteria for eligibility.
Do aged care packages offer the same level of support as the NDIS?
NDIS plans tend to offer higher budgets and more personalised supports.
Can I move between aged care and NDIS supports?
Yes. You can stay on NDIS for disability-related needs and access aged care for age-related needs.
How long does the transition from NDIS to aged care take?
ACAT assessments and package approvals can take weeks to months. Planning ahead prevents gaps.
Who helps me manage the transition
Support Coordinators play a key role in planning, advocating, preparing documents, and coordinating services.
Can I keep the same support workers?
Often yes, depending on provider availability and funding rules. Your coordinator can arrange continuity where possible.
What if my needs are mostly disability-related?
You will likely benefit from staying on the NDIS, but speak to your coordinator to help confirm this.
What happens to my NDIS plan if I move into residential aged care?
Your NDIS plan may change. Some supports continue, while others shift to aged care. A coordinator can guide you through this.
Does aged care cover therapy, transport, or equipment?
Yes, in some cases, but support levels differ from NDIS. Your coordinator will help compare options.
How can Achora help right now?
By reviewing your current supports, preparing you for aged care assessments, and helping you protect the funding you rely on.
Ready to Talk Through Your Options? Achora Is Here to Help
Every person’s situation is unique and so are the options available to you. Whether you’re thinking about staying on the NDIS, transitioning into aged care, combining supports, or adjusting your current funding, you deserve guidance that puts your wellbeing first. Achora is here to help you cut through the confusion, understand your choices, and feel confident about what comes next.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with an Achora Support Coordinator and get clear, personalised advice about your next steps.