What You Don’t Know About Home Care Packages (But Probably Should)

You’ve registered. You’ve got funding. Or maybe you’re still waiting. But here’s what no one tells you (until it’s too late).

There’s a lot of talk about Home Care Packages (HCPs) but not nearly enough clarity.

You might’ve already signed up with My Aged Care. You might be on the waitlist. Maybe you’ve even been funded and have a provider. Wherever you are on the path, there are things about the system that aren’t obvious until you’re knee-deep in it.

And they matter.

So, here it is, the stuff we think you deserve to know, whether you’re just starting out or further along your personal care journey.

1. You don’t have to accept the first provider that calls

When your package gets assigned, you’ll probably hear from a few providers, eager to sign you up straight away. But here’s the thing:

You can and should shop around.

Each provider is different. Some have higher admin fees. Some offer more flexibility. Others might just feel like a better personality fit. The reality? Not all providers are created equal.

You’re allowed to ask questions. You’re allowed to take your time. You’re allowed to say no.

This is your package. Your choice. Your care.

At CareAbout, we take the pressure off. We only work with handpicked, quality providers, ones we’ve already vetted for transparency, service, and values. We’ll match you with the best fit based on what you need.

And if you still want to meet a few options to get a feel for the market? No problem. Our job is to save you the runaround and do the homework for you.

No stress. No spam calls. Just good care, made simple.

2. Not all providers charge the same fees and those fees matter

Every dollar that goes to admin is a dollar that doesn’t go towards your care, which can be up to 35% of your funding. 

However, while lower fees may leave more money available for services, it’s also important to consider what you’re getting in return.

In some cases, a provider may charge higher package and care management fees because they offer more hands-on, personalised support, which can make a big difference depending on your needs.

The key is finding the right balance for you. A provider whose fees reflect the level of care, guidance, and attention that suits your situation.

At CareAbout, we make it easy. We compare providers and their fees side by side, in plain language, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.

And here’s what’s changing:

With the Support at Home reform coming in November 2025, the government is capping care management and package fees at 10% total, a big win for fairness. But there’s a twist: providers will have more flexibility in how they price individual services in the first year, which could make it harder to compare apples with apples.

That’s why having someone like CareAbout in your corner matters. We’ll help you understand what’s fair, what’s inflated, and what value really looks like.

3. Your care plan should never be ‘set and forget’

Needs change. Life changes. And your care should keep up.

If you’re noticing new challenges, or if your current provider isn’t adjusting your support to match, you’re allowed to ask for a review. In fact, you should.

Regular care plan reviews are a must, and they can be the difference between “just coping” and actually thriving at home.

4. You might not be using your full package and that’s money left on the table

We speak to families every day who are only using a small slice of what they’re entitled to. Sometimes it’s because they weren’t told what’s possible. Sometimes it’s because the provider isn’t proactive. And sometimes, it’s just hard to know where to start.

If you’ve been assigned a Level 2, 3 or 4 package and the care doesn’t feel like it matches the funding, ask where the rest is going. You could be eligible for far more support than you’re receiving.

And with Support at Home changes coming November 1, 2025, making sure you’re using your package well and with the right provider has never been more important. The system is shifting, and being set up properly now could make all the difference later.

Not sure what’s possible? That’s where we come in.

At CareAbout, we help you understand your package, explore what services are available, and make sure nothing is left on the table. It’s about turning funding into real, practical support that works for your life.

5. Switching providers isn’t as scary as it sounds

Here’s a secret: you can switch providers anytime, with no penalty or loss of funding as long as you follow the right steps.

And you don’t need to do it alone. We help people switch every day calmly, respectfully, and without any care gap in between.

If something doesn’t feel right, or if you just want better service, you’re not locked in.

6. You’re not meant to figure this all out by yourself

This system is confusing on purpose. There’s too much jargon. Too many steps. Too many calls. And not enough clear, human guidance.

But you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re:

• Still waiting for your ACAT assessment
  
• Newly funded and choosing a provider
  
• Already with a provider but unsure if it’s working
  
• Considering a switch
  
• Just not sure where to start…
  

We’re here to help, at no cost to you.