If you are one of the 4.8 million Australians living with incontinence every day, you may be eligible to receive the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) payment.  

What Is CAPS?

CAPS is an Australian Government program designed to reduce the financial burden of living with permanent and severe incontinence by providing an annual payment to assist with some of the expense of buying continence management products. 

Payments are made via Medicare to eligible Australians and allow them the freedom to purchase the products they prefer from any provider they choose.

How Much is the CAPS Payment?

The CAPS payment rate for 2024-25 is $694.80 per person (not added to your taxable income), and is adjusted every year following the Government's budget process.

Eligible recipients can nominate to receive one full payment in July or two half payments in July and January every year.

Payments are made directly into your choice of Australian bank account. The account can belong to either yourself, the custodial parent of a child getting CAPS or a legal or authorised nominee.

Am I Eligible?

To receive the CAPS payment you or the person you care for needs to meet all the eligibility requirements. The basic requirements are that you meet all of the following:

• have permanent and severe incontinence confirmed by a registered health professional
• have an eligible neurological condition or other eligible condition that is the cause of your permanent and severe incontinence
• are aged 5 years or older
• are an Australian citizen, permanent resident or have permanent residency rights for as long as you receive the payment

To read more about the eligibility requirements to receive CAPS, you can have a look at Services Australia website here or the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care site here.

How Do I Apply?

 There are 4 simple steps in applying for CAPS:

1. Download the form: To receive the CAPS payment directly to your bank account download a copy of the form here and proceed to Step 2. 
2. Visit a registered doctor or health professional: And have them complete their part of the form with their details and information about your condition. 
3. Submit your application: Complete the remaining sections and gather any additional documents required before submitting your application by either visiting a Services Australia Service Centre or returning to the postal address provided on the form. Ensure you include a copy of any extra documents requested in the application form. 
4. Wait for the result: If approved, payment will be made into your nominated financial institution. If unsuccessful you will be notified in writing and given the opportunity to appeal the decision.

What Can I Purchase Using CAPS?

Eligible recipients of CAPS payments have complete control over how and when they purchase continence management products they need.

Need help finding the right products for you?

Just take our Help Me Choose Quiz and we will help you choose the right product in just a few simple steps.

*Last updated July 2024. To stay up to date with any updates or changes to CAPS, please visit the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care website.