Choosing an SRS

Page content: Where do I find SRSs? | What should I look for in an SRS? | What are the costs? | Information for prospective residents | A checklist

It is important that you, or the person you care for, finds supported accommodation that suits their needs. Before deciding on an SRS, consider if it provides the right services and level of care, and visit a few facilities.

Where do I find SRSs?

To find SRSs in your area, try:

• The "Homes-Special Accommodation" section of the Yellow Pages
• The Department of Health office nearest to you
• The "Aged Care Guide"
• The Residential Care Association, call (61 3) 9808 3655
• Your local council
• The list of facilities

What should I look for in an SRS?

A good SRS:

• Provides for the person's needs
• Respects the person's individuality
• Promotes the person's independence
• Provides a supportive environment for the person and their family and friends
• Invites input from residents, family and friends about the care and services they receive
• Uses current practices to care for and support residents.

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What are the costs?

SRSs are able to set their own fees and charges. The range of fees can be anywhere from approximately 85 percent of the pension up to $1,000 per week or more. Before choosing the SRS, make sure you understand all the fees and charges that apply.

Information for prospective residents

SRSs are required by regulations to give you written information about:

• type of services provided
• objectives and philosophies of the service
• the number of residents at the service
• goods and services offered to residents and the costs of these
• how and when changes to services, fees and charges will be notified
• services available to residents from outside the SRS
• times of routines, such as meal times
• complaints procedures
• options for managing resident's financial and legal affairs.

A checklist

You can download the checklist which will assist you when selecting a suitable SRS.

SRS Checklist - Choosing an SRS (31kb, MS Word)

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