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.

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.

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

1. Basic daily fee – Some providers charge this, though it’s not mandatory.
2. Income-tested care fee – Assessed by Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
3. 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.

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.

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.

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.