Under 65 in aged care: what would make real choice possible?
In plain English
Australia’s targets to reduce younger people living in residential aged care have not been met. There has been progress, but suitable alternatives need both housing and the supports that make daily life possible.
An AIHW study covered younger people living in residential aged care between July 2017 and June 2022. Fewer than one in three NDIS participants with specialist disability accommodation (SDA) funding used it. This is a historical study finding, not a current national estimate, and it does not explain why each individual remained in aged care.
For NDIS participants, a practical first step is to speak with your NDIS contact or support coordinator about housing options and specialist planning. Existing residents can also choose to stay. Supported choice must respect each person’s needs and preferences.
AI-assisted production. People and scenes in the video are AI-generated illustrations, not actual residents or documented cases. General public-health information, not an individual eligibility assessment.
Key numbers
- Under 65: the younger age group discussed in this explainer.
- 2017–2022: the historical AIHW study period, not a measure of the current national situation.
- Less than one in three: NDIS participants with SDA funding in that study used it.
Sources
These are the sources named in the video and its description.
- AIHW GEN: Younger people in residential aged care (updated 26 August 2026)
- AIHW: NDIS participation by younger people living in residential aged care (published 1 April 2026; study 2017–2022)
- NDIA: Guide to residential aged care
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Last checked: 5 November 2026. This is general information, not medical advice.
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