Home Care Canberra FAQs

Category: Home Care Canberra

How can I apply for home care in Canberra?

The home care application process involves several straightforward steps. Begin by registering with My Aged Care through www.myagedcare.gov.au or by calling 1800 200 422. Subsequently, you’ll undergo an Aged Care Assessment where a qualified professional will evaluate your specific care needs and determine service eligibility. Upon approval, you’ll receive an official letter detailing your funding level based on individual requirements. Once your package is assigned, you can select a home care provider in Canberra that best aligns with your needs and preferences.

Who is eligible for a home care package in Canberra?

Eligibility for a Home Care Package in Canberra follows national guidelines. Seniors aged 65 and over, or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, may qualify if they require assistance with daily activities to maintain independent home living. The Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) determines eligibility through a comprehensive evaluation of mobility, health needs and overall capacity to manage daily life. This assessment ensures Canberra residents receive appropriate support to maintain independence and well-being in a familiar environment.

What is home care?

Home care provides personalised support designed to help older Australians maintain their independence and quality of life within their own homes. These services encompass nursing care, allied health support, personal assistance, transportation, social engagement, domestic help, home maintenance, meal preparation and more. The core purpose is to support daily living, enhance overall well-being and ensure seniors can continue enjoying life in familiar surroundings with appropriate levels of assistance tailored to their unique individual needs.

What changes are coming with the new aged care system in July 2025?

In July 2025, the Australian Government will introduce the Support at Home Program, replacing the Home Care Packages (HCP) Program and Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). The new program aims to:

Simplify aged care funding and service access.
Increase flexibility, allowing seniors to adjust their care needs more easily.
Improve quality standards across all home care services.

If you’re currently receiving a Home Care Package, your care will transition seamlessly, and you will continue receiving services under the new system. For more information visit www.myagedcare.gov.au or call 1800 200 422.

What is not included in a home care package?

While Home Care Packages cover a broad range of services, there are some exclusions. These typically include:

Rent or mortgage payments
General groceries and meals (unless meal preparation is part of the care plan)
Household appliances and furniture
Holidays, entertainment, and travel expenses
Medical costs covered by Medicare, private health insurance, or the PBS

Some home modifications may be funded if they’re deemed essential for safety.

Who pays for home care in Australia?

The Australian Government subsidises Home Care Packages, but some individuals may need to contribute depending on their financial situation. The costs can include:

Basic daily fee – Some providers charge this, though it’s not mandatory.
Income-tested care fee – Assessed by Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Additional service costs – If you choose extra services beyond what your package covers.

A financial assessment determines if an income-tested care fee applies. Some people pay nothing, while others contribute based on income.

What are the four levels of home care packages?

The HCP Program offers four levels of care, with increasing funding based on care needs:

Level 1: Basic support, such as help with cleaning and transport.
Level 2: Low-level care, including some personal care and home maintenance.
Level 3: Intermediate care for individuals with more complex needs, including some nursing care.
Level 4: High-level care, including daily nursing support and advanced assistance.

Who is eligible for a home care package in Australia?

Australians aged 65 and over (or 50 and over for First Nations peoples) may be eligible for an HCP if they require assistance with daily activities. Eligibility is determined by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) in Victoria. The assessment evaluates a person’s mobility, health needs, and overall ability to live independently at home.

What is the Home Care Packages (HCP) Program?

The Home Care Packages (HCP) Program is a government-funded initiative designed to help older Australians live independently at home. It provides subsidised support services, including personal care, household assistance, transport, and clinical care. Each package is tailored to individual needs, ensuring that seniors receive the right level of care.