Aged care in Western Australia
This page is for WA families comparing room prices and regions: metropolitan Perth, the South West corridor, Albany, Geraldton, and remote communities. Most of the state's aged care capacity sits in Perth and the south-west; regional and remote WA has far fewer homes.
Perth's property market shows up in RAD prices, especially in the western suburbs and riverside areas. The government daily fee and means-test rules are national: the same in WA as everywhere else. For that national explanation, use what you pay in aged care.
National fees vs WA RAD
Your parent or partner still faces the same three fee types in WA: the basic daily fee, the means-tested care fee, and accommodation (RAD or DAP). Government rates for the first two are identical in every state. What this page covers is WA's room-price market and where homes actually exist.
For rates, caps, and worked examples of the national fees, read what you pay in aged care. For how the means test itself is calculated, see the means-tested care fee guide. The quick reference below is only so you can see how the national numbers sit beside a WA RAD.
| Fee | Amount | Who pays it? |
|---|---|---|
| Basic daily fee | $66.80/day ($24,398.70/yr) | Everyone |
| Means-tested care fee (MTCF) | $0–$35,910.43/yr (annual cap) | Those with income/assets above thresholds |
| Accommodation (RAD or DAP) | Facility-set; lump sum, daily fee, or combination | Those assessed as not low-means |
Accommodation costs (RAD/DAP) in Western Australia
Accommodation can be paid as a Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD)— refunded in full when you leave — or as a Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) at the current MPIR of 8.43% per year.
Western Australia RAD price ranges (2026)
| Location | Typical RAD range | Equivalent DAP (daily) |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan Perth | $280,000–$750,000 | $65–$173/day |
| Regional cities (Bunbury, Albany, Geraldton) | $200,000–$480,000 | $46–$111/day |
| Rural and remote WA (Pilbara, Kimberley, Goldfields) | $100,000–$320,000 | $23–$74/day |
Regional breakdown
Metropolitan Perth
Perth's western suburbs (Cottesloe, Claremont, Nedlands) and riverside inner-city areas have the highest RADs ($500,000–$750,000). The northern and southern suburbs, as well as the Hills, offer more affordable options ($280,000–$480,000).
South West (Bunbury, Busselton, Margaret River)
The South West is a growing retirement destination with an expanding aged care sector. Bunbury has several established facilities with RADs typically $200,000–$380,000. Smaller towns like Busselton and Margaret River have more limited supply.
Albany and Great Southern
Albany has community-owned and not-for-profit facilities serving the Great Southern region. RADs generally range from $180,000 to $350,000. Wait times can be significant given limited supply.
Geraldton and Mid West
Geraldton has several aged care facilities serving the Mid West region. RADs are typically $150,000–$300,000. Regional facilities here can be a practical choice for families from smaller nearby communities.
Pilbara, Kimberley, and remote WA
Aged care infrastructure in remote WA is very limited. The government has specific programmes to support remote access. Families in these regions often face the difficult decision of relocating to Perth or a regional centre for appropriate care.
Finding a provider in Western Australia
WA's sector includes well-regarded providers such as Bethanie, Juniper, Southern Cross Care, and Brightwater, as well as Uniting Care and several community-owned regional operators.
- Search myagedcare.gov.au for WA facilities by suburb or region. All providers are listed with current RAD prices and available places.
- Check each facility's star rating and compliance history via the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
- Request a written fee estimate letter before visiting or committing to any facility.
Tips for WA families
- Perth's rising property market matters. Perth home values have increased significantly — this can push the means-tested care fee higher if the home is included in the assets assessment. Read our family home guide to understand all exemption options.
- Plan for remote and regional access challenges. If your parent lives in regional or remote WA, start the planning process as early as possible. The nearest appropriate facility may require relocation.
- Consider the south-west as an alternative to Perth. Bunbury and Busselton have quality facilities with lower RADs and a lifestyle appeal for residents who prefer a smaller community.
- Seek independent financial advice for complex situations. WA families often have assets including mining industry superannuation, investment properties, and business interests — all of which affect means testing. An accredited aged care financial adviser can model your specific situation.