RAD And DAP
What Is A DAP In Aged Care?
Understand daily accommodation payments and how they relate to unpaid RAD amounts.
Short answer
A DAP, or Daily Accommodation Payment, is a daily accommodation charge paid instead of paying all of the RAD upfront. It is calculated from the unpaid accommodation amount and the applicable MPIR, which is 7.96% for agreements made from 1 April 2026 to 30 June 2026.
How DAP is usually calculated
The unpaid accommodation amount is multiplied by the MPIR, then converted into a daily amount. The government schedule sets MPIR at 7.96% for agreements made from 1 April 2026 to 30 June 2026. Because MPIR can change each quarter, confirm the rate that applies when the room price is agreed.
What makes DAP different
DAP payments are generally not refunded. They may preserve cash upfront, but they add to ongoing cash-flow needs.
DAP indexation under newer arrangements
For eligible residents under the arrangements introduced on 1 November 2025, DAP is indexed on 20 March and 20 September. The government published a DAP index number of 1.02 for 20 March 2026. Ask the provider to show how future indexation may change a daily payment estimate.
Turn this into a family decision.
Folra can help model RAD/DAP scenarios and turn the numbers into calmer questions to discuss before anyone signs.
Start the free calculatorCheck the current rates
Folra keeps a separate rates page for the MPIR and basic daily care fee currently used in calculator examples.
View current ratesCommon questions
Is DAP refundable?
No. DAP is an ongoing accommodation payment and is generally not refunded.
Sources
Rate and fee claims are checked against Australian Government sources where applicable.
Related guides
Disclaimer: Folra guides are educational only. They do not provide financial, legal, tax, or aged-care advice. Confirm current rules and consider independent advice before making decisions or signing agreements.