The Support at Home Priority System is how the Australian Government allocates funding for the Support at Home Program. It ensures that people with the most urgent needs are supported first and that everyone is treated fairly. From 1 November 2025, it replaces the Home Care Packages queue, creating one consistent national system for funding allocation.
If you already receive a Home Care Package, you will automatically transition to Support at Home. If you are new to aged care, you will first need an aged care assessment through My Aged Care before entering the Priority System.
Support at Home Priority Levels
Urgent*
Urgent is an alternative fast-track pathway used when someone needs help straight away and it is not safe to wait. Services may start before the full assessment is finished so the person is not left at serious risk.
High
High priority means the person needs to be seen very quickly. Without help they may end up in hospital or have to leave their home because they cannot manage day to day, their carer cannot support them, or there are serious safety issues at home.
Medium
Medium priority means the person is not in immediate danger, but things are getting harder. Their health, memory or ability to manage at home is gradually getting worse, and the help they have now is not enough to keep going long term.
Standard
Standard priority means the person is coping for now and has enough support, but it is wise to plan ahead. An assessment looks at future care needs, for example if a carer will be away or early signs show living independently is becoming more difficult.
How The Priority System Works & What Are The Wait Times
Your position in the queue is determined by two factors: your priority category and the date you were approved. The system uses four categories: Urgent, High, Medium and Standard. People in higher categories are allocated funding first.
