So, you’ve heard that the aged care system is changing. “Support at Home” is replacing the current Home Care Packages (HCP) from November 2025, but what does that actually look like on the ground?
If you’re feeling a bit confused, you’re not alone. Let’s walk through how this new program is going to work, step by step.
First things first: how will care needs be assessed?
Whether you’re brand new to aged care or already receiving services, the starting point is the same, an aged care assessment. That’s where a trained assessor comes to your home to chat with you (and maybe your family or carer) about your health, lifestyle, and what kind of support you need.
What’s changing is that under Support at Home, this process is part of a Single Assessment System, which aims to be more streamlined and fair. The outcome? You’ll be classified into one of eight service levels, each with its own quarterly budget. These levels are more tailored than the old four-package HCP system, meaning your funding will better match your needs.
What happens after you’re assessed?
You’ll receive a Notice of Decision, outlining your:
- Approved service level
- Quarterly budget
- List of services you can access
- Any additional approvals (like for assistive tech or short-term support)
With this info in hand, you and your chosen provider will create a care plan, a bit like a menu of the help you’ll receive, tailored just for you.
Managing your services, budget and how it works
Under the new system, there’s more transparency and flexibility. Here’s how:
- One all-inclusive price per service: No more separate charges for admin, travel, or package management. Each service has a single price tag, which comes out of your budget.
- Quarterly funding: Your budget resets every three months, and you can roll over unspent funds up to $1,000 or 10% (whichever is more).
- Care management: 10% of your budget goes toward ongoing care management, helping you get the most out of your services.
And if your needs change? You can ask for a reassessment at any time.
What’s staying the same?
- You’ll still choose your provider
- Your services are still based on an aged care assessment
- If you’re already on a Home Care Package, you won’t lose your services or funding
And what’s new?
- 8 support levels instead of 4
- Clearer service pricing
- New care pathways for things like palliative care and short-term restorative care
- Dedicated funding for assistive technology and home modifications (up to $15,000 each)
- A simpler, more consistent system, whether you’re in Sydney or rural WA
A real-world example: meet Margaret
Margaret is 84 and lives in a small unit in Adelaide. She’s been managing well with a Level 2 Home Care Package, using it for light cleaning, meal prep, and a weekly nurse visit for her diabetes.
In November 2025, Margaret is automatically transitioned into Support at Home. After her reassessment, she’s placed in Level 3, which gives her a bit more funding, and better reflects her current needs.
With her new provider, Margaret gets a fresh care plan:
- Continued cleaning and nursing support
- An extra hour of gardening each fortnight (something she’s been missing)
- And thanks to the new Assistive Technology Scheme, she now has a walker tailored to her mobility and bathroom grab rails both fully covered
Her provider walks her through the costs in plain language, and she knows exactly how her budget is being spent each quarter. Most importantly, Margaret feels heard and supported.
Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t have to go it alone.
Navigating a new system can feel like trying to read fine print without your glasses. That’s where we come in.
CareAbout advisers are here to help you understand your funding, choose a provider, and make sure your plan truly works for you. One phone call can make it all a lot clearer.
