CFS introduces new guidance service to simplify access to aged care

5 March 2025

Colonial First State (CFS) today announces it will offer a guidance and advice service to help members and their families navigate Australia’s aged care system.

CFS is offering members discounted access to Care & Living with Mercer, which provides personalised support to access all levels of aged care, from in-home support, retirement living and residential aged care to end-of-life preparation.

“Australia’s aged care system is complex and we know there is a real need for assistance when it comes to finding and selecting suitable services, said Marissa Powe, CFS Executive Director of Retirement.

“Each year around 250,000 older Australians access residential or home aged care for the first time, with families spending a significant amount of time trying to find the services they need and comparing different options.

“Our goal is to make it less stressful for our members and their families to get the support they need quickly and easily. The new service will also make it easier for financial advisers to provide additional support to their clients and navigate the changes to the aged care system which will be introduced later this year”, added Ms Powe.

The Guidance & Advice service option is available to CFS members at a discounted one-off fee of $350, which includes access to a personalised aged care planner that enables family members, healthcare professionals and financial advisers to collaborate online to put suitable care arrangements in place.

CFS members and their families can also access resources on retirement living and care quality, along with a shortlist of pre-screened providers in their preferred area. Unlimited aged care support is available through the service via phone or video calls.

Access to additional or emergency-level Care Concierge support is available for an additional fee. The Care Concierge service can help with implementation and placement with care providers when needs are urgent, as well as help applying for government support, liaising with service providers and follow-up checks once arrangements are in place