Continence aids
The new Act started on 1 November 2025 and responds to issues facing older people, aged care providers, workers and the broader sector. It puts the rights of older people at the centre of the aged care system.
At this time, there are no changes to the MASS General Guidelines or eligibility criteria to access funding for aids and equipment through MASS programs. Please continue to monitor the MASS websites for more information.
Subsidy funding is available under the Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (MASS) to support eligible children and adults who require continence aids.
Available equipment
- Disposable pads, nappies, pull-on style pads and all-in-one pads
- Reusable bed pads, chair pads and pants
- Indwelling and disposable catheters
- Catheter valves
- Sheaths (latex and non-latex)
- Leg and night drainage bags
- Stretch pants (only supplied with non-adhesive shaped pads).
Eligible prescribers
- Continence specialist registered nurse
- Geriatrician
- Occupational therapist
- Paediatrician
- Physiotherapist
- Registered nurse
- Urogynaecologist
- Urologist.
In rural and remote areas, Indigenous Health Workers and/or an Enrolled Nurse where there is evidence of consultation with one of the above MASS designated prescribers.
How to prescribe
Specific eligibility, application and documentation requirements are provided in both the MASS General Guidelines (PDF 426 kB) and Application Guidelines for Continence Aids. The prescriber will work with the applicant to ensure the most suitable continence aid is prescribed, and then complete and submit the Continence Aids Application Form. After the initial supply, review applications for ongoing supply must be made every three years or where there is a change to the type of continence aids. Your client must be clinically reviewed/approved every three years to maintain their ongoing eligibility for continence aid
Note: For reapplications of continence aids where there is no change to the type of continence aids, clients/carers and prescribers are able to telephone MASS directly to place an order.
Applicant resources
Application guidelines (including current subsidy amounts)
Application form
Prescribers may submit applications for Continence through MASS-eApply (online applications).
Approved continence products
Approved suppliers
Clinical guidelines and resources
Advice and clinical support
- Contact the MASS Principal Continence Advisor
- Contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm)