NDIS vs My Aged Care: Which Support Is Right for You in Sydney?
NDIS vs My Aged Care: Which Support Is Right for You in Sydney?
- January 13, 2026
If you’re trying to make sense of care options in Sydney, chances are you’ve come across NDIS and My Aged Care — and thought:
“Are these the same thing?”
“Which one applies to us?”
“Where do we even start?”
You’re not alone. These systems can feel confusing at first, especially when you’re already supporting yourself or someone you love. The good news? Once you understand the basics, the right pathway usually becomes much clearer.
Let’s break it down — simply, honestly, and without the jargon.
Who Are These Programs For?
NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
The NDIS supports people living with a permanent and significant disability. Age isn’t the deciding factor — eligibility is based on how a disability impacts daily life and long-term goals.
Through the NDIS in Sydney, participants can access support that helps them build independence and live life on their own terms, including:
- Daily living assistance, such as personal care or in-home support
- Capacity-building supports like therapy, employment help, or life skills
- Assistive technology, including mobility aids or communication devices
- Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) for people with higher support needs
NDIS participants have strong choice and control, meaning you can work with trusted NDIS providers in Sydney and tailor supports around your goals, routine, and lifestyle.
My Aged Care
My Aged Care is designed for older Australians, typically:
- 65 years and over
- 50 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Its focus is on helping people live safely, independently, and with dignity as they age.
As of 2025–2026, the Australian Government introduced the Support at Home program, replacing Home Care Packages (HCP) and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). This new model places stronger emphasis on wellness, prevention, and staying at home longer.
Supports under My Aged Care can include:
- Help at home with cleaning, meals, or personal care
- Nursing and allied health services such as physiotherapy or occupational therapy\
- Respite care to support family carers
- Residential aged care when living at home is no longer safe
Care is typically coordinated by approved providers, with structured plans designed around safety and daily needs.
NDIS vs My Aged Care: Key Differences at a Glance
Who it’s for
• NDIS: People with a permanent disability
• My Aged Care: Older Australians
Main goal
• NDIS: Build independence and achieve personal goals
• My Aged Care: Maintain safety, wellness, and daily living
How funding works
• NDIS: Participant-directed with high flexibility
• My Aged Care: Provider-managed with structured care plans
Types of support
• NDIS: Therapy, skill-building, assistive technology, daily support, specialist housing
• My Aged Care: Personal care, nursing, allied health, respite, residential care
Flexibility
• NDIS: High
• My Aged Care: Moderate
Costs
• NDIS: No cost for approved supports
• My Aged Care: May include basic daily or income-tested fees
Can You Access Both?
This is a common question — and the answer is usually no, but there are important exceptions.
You may experience both systems during transition periods, such as:
- An NDIS participant turning 65 and moving to My Aged Care
- Older adults with a disability who temporarily receive disability-specific supports
A helpful way to think about it is this:
NDIS supports your disability journey.
My Aged Care supports your ageing journey.
They serve different purposes, but both aim to improve quality of life.
Practical Tips for Sydney Families
If you’re unsure which pathway is right for you, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider age and eligibility — under 65 with a disability usually means NDIS; 65+ usually means My Aged Care
- Think about goals — NDIS focuses on growth and independence, while My Aged Care focuses on safety and daily support
- Explore local options — look for trusted disability services and NDIS providers in Sydney, or My Aged Care-registered providers
- Ask questions early — understand what’s included, how flexible supports are, and how long funding lasts
Common Myths (Cleared Up)
• “NDIS and My Aged Care are the same” — they’re not, and they serve different needs
• “Once you choose, you’re stuck forever” — transitions can and do happen
• “You just call a provider for My Aged Care” — assessments and referrals usually come first
Final Thoughts
Choosing between NDIS vs My Aged Care isn’t about picking the “better” system — it’s about choosing the right support at the right stage of life.
Both programs exist for the same reason:
to help Australians live with dignity, independence, and confidence.
Sydney’s Trusted Support for Your Care Needs
Navigating care options doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — and you don’t have to do it alone.
At Concept Care, we support individuals and families across Sydney with compassionate, personalised care. Whether you’re exploring NDIS supports or need help at home through aged care services, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Call 1800 266 237 to chat about your needs
🌐 Visit www.conceptcare.com.au to learn more
We’re here to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and care.