Variable fees Continuation

As at 1 October 1997, some hostel residents may already be paying higher variable fees.  Fees for new residents admitted after 1 October 1997 will be in accordance with the new rules.

During the transition period to the new fee structure, special arrangements will apply that help hostels adjust to the cessation of variable fees.  These arrangements will generally allow hostels to charge existing residents (as at 1 October 1997) the same fee previously agreed less the amount of any rent assistance the resident was getting.  The exception is where this amount is less than the new income tested fee (in which case the resident will pay the fee payable under the Aged Care Act 1997).