Family checklist
12 questions to ask before anyone enters the home
A checklist covering identity, role, price, timing, replacement, escalation and privacy.
- reading time
- 5 minreading time
- published
- 29 September 2026published
- for role boundaries
- Reviewedfor role boundaries
- for emergencies
- 108 / 112for emergencies
A caring manner matters, but it should sit beside verifiable basics. Ask these questions before the first visit or shift, not after a problem appears.
The person and the role
Clarity begins with knowing who is coming and what they are qualified to do.
- What is the person's full name and role?
- Which identity and address checks were completed?
- Which qualification or registration applies to this assignment?
- What tasks are inside—and outside—the role?
The booking
A complete booking defines time and money as clearly as it defines care.
- What is the arrival window?
- Is the price per visit, hour, shift, day or month?
- Does the displayed price include GST?
- Is there a deposit or any possible additional charge?
When real life changes
Ask who owns the exception before you need an exception.
- Who do we contact if the professional is late?
- What happens if a replacement is needed?
- What symptoms require a doctor or ambulance?
- How will private health information be shared and protected?
Keep the answers
Save the agreed role, price, timing and escalation contact in writing. A transparent provider should be comfortable with the same terms appearing on the website, booking confirmation and final bill.
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Follow the treating clinician's instructions. For a severe or rapidly worsening situation, call 112 or 108.