You’ve Got Funding. Now What?

Your next steps to getting real support, minus the confusion

So, you’ve been approved for a Home Care Package. Maybe your funding has finally been assigned. Or maybe you’re still on the waiting list and wondering what happens next.

Here’s the thing no one tells you: this part can feel just as confusing as the approval process.

You’ve waited months (or longer), and now you’re handed a letter and expected to just… figure it all out?

Don’t stress. We’re here to walk you through exactly what comes next – and how to make sure you don’t waste a cent of the support you’ve worked hard to access.

🔍 Step 1: Understand what you’ve actually been approved for

There are four levels of Home Care Packages, from Level 1 (basic needs) to Level 4 (high-level support). Each level comes with different funding amounts, which are paid by the government directly to a care provider you choose.

But here’s the trick: that money isn’t just sitting in your bank account. You need to select a provider, set up a care plan, and activate your package to start using the funds.

Until then? That support is on pause.

**🕐 Step 2: While you’re waiting, you can do things**

If you’re on the national queue and haven’t received your package yet, you might still be eligible for short-term help through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).

You can also start thinking about:

What services you’ll need first
What kind of provider you want
Any goals or concerns you want included in your care plan

CareAbout can help you get this prep work done now – so you’re ready to go when your funding is assigned.

✅ Step 3: When the letter arrives – act fast!

Once your funding is assigned, you’ve got 56 days to enter into a provider agreement – or risk losing the funding. You can request a 28-day extension, but the clock starts ticking.

This is where a lot of people get stuck.

Don’t get buried in spreadsheets and brochures. CareAbout will help you compare your options and choose a provider who:

Meets your specific needs
Charges reasonable fees (we see wild variations!)
Has a strong track record of delivering quality care

🚀 Step 4: These are the top services people choose first

You don’t need to overhaul your whole life on day one. Start with what matters most.

Here are the top five services people often choose when their package starts:

🧽 Cleaning and home help – safer, easier, and more energy for the good stuff
🧑‍🍳 Meal prep or delivery – especially if cooking is tough
🚿 Personal care – help with showering, dressing or grooming
🛠️ Home safety tweaks – grab rails, ramps, better lighting
🚗 Transport – to appointments, social activities or shops