Aged care in Queensland
Queensland's aged care sector spans a vast geography — from high-demand metropolitan Brisbane and the southeast corner, through large regional centres like the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Townsville, and Cairns, to remote outback and far north communities.
The state has a rapidly growing older population, particularly in lifestyle destinations like the Gold Coast, which has high demand for quality facilities. Government fees and assessment rules are federal and identical across all states.
What fees will I pay?
Every Queensland resident in aged care pays up to three fees:
| Fee | Amount | Who pays it? |
|---|---|---|
| Basic daily fee | $63.57/day ($23,203/yr) | Everyone |
| Means-tested care fee (MTCF) | $0–$32,719/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 Queensland
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 8.38% per year.
Queensland RAD price ranges (2026)
| Location | Typical RAD range | Equivalent DAP (daily) |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan Brisbane | $280,000–$750,000 | $64–$172/day |
| Gold Coast / Sunshine Coast / Townsville / Cairns | $200,000–$480,000 | $46–$110/day |
| Rural and remote QLD | $100,000–$320,000 | $23–$73/day |
Regional breakdown
Metropolitan Brisbane
Brisbane's inner suburbs, riverside areas, and the western suburbs have the highest RADs in Queensland ($450,000–$750,000). Outer Brisbane, Ipswich, and Moreton Bay sit lower at $280,000–$450,000.
Gold Coast
Queensland's second-largest city has strong demand driven by the large retiree population. Facilities range widely — some premium coastal facilities approach Brisbane metro pricing, while those further inland are more moderate ($200,000–$420,000).
Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast has a growing aged care sector. RADs typically range from $220,000 to $450,000 depending on location and facility quality.
Townsville and Cairns
North Queensland's major centres have well-established facilities with RADs generally $150,000–$350,000. Wait times can be more manageable than the southeast corner.
Rural and remote Queensland
Outback Queensland, Far North Queensland, and Cape York communities have limited facilities, many operating as low-means providers. The government has specific programmes to support aged care access in these areas.
Finding a provider in Queensland
Queensland's sector includes major operators such as BlueCare, Ozcare, Estia Health, and Arcare, alongside regional not-for-profits and community-owned facilities.
- Search myagedcare.gov.au for Queensland facilities with filters for location, care type, and available places.
- Check the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission's published compliance reports for any facility you are considering.
- Request a fee estimate letter from shortlisted facilities before making any decisions.
Tips for Queensland families
- Southeast Queensland has limited places. The combination of a growing retiree population and high demand in Brisbane and the Gold Coast means preferred facilities can have wait lists. Start your research early.
- Consider regional options. Facilities in Toowoomba, Rockhampton, or Mackay often have more available places and lower RADs, which may suit families who have moved away from the city.
- Understand the family home exemption. A Queensland property that is rented out is immediately included in the assets test. Our family home guide explains all exemption rules.
- Get financial advice before acting. Particularly if the family home is involved, independent aged care financial advice can reduce total fees significantly.