Higher everyday living fees residential aged care providers and workers survey

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is undertaking this survey to understand your experiences in managing and delivering services under the new Higher Everyday Living Fee (HELF) arrangements.

The HELF arrangements started on 1 November 2025 and replace the Extra Service and Additional Service arrangements. Extra and additional service fee agreements that were current prior to 1 November 2025 may continue up until 31 October 2026, on the same terms and conditions.

The HELF is an optional fee that enables individuals to choose to receive more or a higher standard of services in mainstream permanent or respite residential aged care.

A HELF can be charged for services (other than accommodation), that are of a higher level than those on the service list or not already required or listed on the service list. Services must be delivered in accordance with the Aged Care Quality Standards and the Statement of Rights.