COTA Victoria proudly delivers aged care navigation to the most vulnerable older residents living within the City of Kingston, first through the Aged Care System Navigation trial in 2019, then from 2023 as a Care Finder service provider at the program’s launch.
Therefore, it is with great regret that we inform our members, supporters, referrers, and clients that COTA Victoria’s Care Finder services will cease operation on 31 March 2026. Our Care Finder team will continue providing support to existing clients and cases, working to ensure their needs are attended to, up until this time. To secure the best results for our clients, we will no longer be accepting new referrals from 16 February 2026 onwards.
Where to go for new referrals within the City of Kingston
For new contacts needing assistance from a Care Finder provider within the South East Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN), specifically within the City of Kingston, we encourage you to reach out to the following, ongoing, Care Finder services:
- Bayside City Council
- Phone: 03 9599 4896
- Email: relief@bayside.vic.gov.au
- Better Health Network
- Phone: 03 9525 1300
- Email: carefinderintake@bhn.org.au
You can find more information about SEMPHN’s Care Finder program and their service providers here.
It has been a privilege to assist so many older people, their families, and friends to navigate the often-complex process of accessing aged care services over the past seven years.
What if a care finder isn’t right for someone?
Most people who need aged care should call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au to discuss their needs and arrange an assessment.
If someone would like help to talk to My Aged Care or to use the website they can go to any Services Australia centre. There are Aged Care Specialist officers who give face-to-face help in 70 Services Australia service centres. Visit the Services Australia website to see where these are located or call 1800 227 475.
Other supports and their contact details
- Advocacy support – contact OPAN (Older Persons Advocacy Network website) or call 1800 700 600
- Carer support – contact Carer Gateway or call 1800 422 737
- National Dementia Helpline call 1800 100 500