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What Are Support at Home Classification Levels?
From 1 November 2025, the new Support at Home program is set to replace the former Home Care Packages. One of the biggest changes to come, is how support is organised: Instead of four package levels, there will now be eight ongoing classification levels and three short-term funding options (Restorative Care Pathway, End-of-Life Pathway, and the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme).
This Support at Home (SAH) change is intended to assure that eligible care recipients receive greater care in closer alignment with their personal needs, especially when these needs extend and change over time.
These eight new Support at Home classification levels are more flexible, personalised, and extensive. Whether it’s everyday support or more complex care that’s needed, Support at Home sees a reformed aged care system for better reflecting the everyday needs of older Australians wanting to independently (and safely) reside at home.
If you’ve heard the terms ‘Support at Home levels’ or ‘new Home Care Package levels,’ and have been made to feel unsure – you’re not alone. To simply understand the key transition changes from Home Care Packages (HCPs) to Support at Home, please see our guide here.
Here, we provide a simplified breakdown of each Support at Home classification, and what this means for you.
Support at Home Classifications
The new Support at Home framework has been carefully designed to cover all stages of ageing at home. It includes eight ongoing Support at Home levels that provide continuous, needs-based care, whether that means moderate assistance with daily tasks, or receiving more extensive and ongoing support.
These updated Support at Home classification levels provide older Australians with greater flexibility and peace of mind, while ensuring their provided care is able to grow as their needs do.
Alongside these eight classification levels, are two short-term classifications that provide targeted help during specific times: Restorative Care, and End-of-Life Care (Palliative Care at Home), which you can learn more about in our guide here.
Through Support at Home, the coverage of care available can extend to include recovery following a hospital stay, palliative support for comfort and dignity at home for example. It may also cover home safety upgrades, like installing rails or modifying your bathroom, to help prevent falls and of course, to help you feel more secure at home.
Support at Home Classification Types: Know the Funding Available
| Annual Budget | Quarterly Budget | Typical Support | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $10,731.00 | $2,682.75 | Light domestic help, occasional cleaning, meals, or transport to maintain independence |
| Level 2 | $16,034.45 | $4,008.61 | Light personal and social care such as showering assistance, shopping, and companionship |
| Level 3 | $21,965.70 | $5,491.43 | Weekly support with hygiene, mobility, meal preparation, and household tasks |
| Level 4 | $29,696.40 | $7,424.10 | Near-daily personal care, medication prompts, and home-safety modifications |
| Level 5 | $39,697.40 | $9,924.35 | Daily assistance with medication, mobility, and routine health monitoring |
| Level 6 | $48,114.30 | $12,028.58 | Regular nursing, physiotherapy, and allied-health services for chronic-condition management |
| Level 7 | $58,148.15 | $14,537.04 | Intensive multidisciplinary support delivered through a coordinated care team |
| Level 8 | $78,106.35 | $19,526.59 | Regular in-home care with clinical and allied-health oversight for complex care needs |
| Restorative Care Pathway | – | $6,000 (16-week program). Can be applied for twice in a 12-month period | Therapy-led recovery to improve or maintain independence |
| End-of-Life Care Pathway | – | $25,000 (12-week program) | Dedicated palliative funding to support comfort and dignity at home |
| Assistive Technology & Home Modifications Scheme | – | Low, medium, or high tiers as assessed | Separate funding for safety equipment and home upgrades to support mobility and independence |
How We CareAbout You
When you don’t have all the pieces of a constantly-changing puzzle, it’s incredibly hard to make an informed decision – that’s where we come in.
Our Care Advisors cut through the noise, and simplify an otherwise complex process. We take the time to understand who you are, and what you need. We then present you with an expert-led recommendation – of course, the ultimate choice is yours to make.
What Does Each Support at Home Classification Level Cover?
The new Support at Home program’s eight classification levels range from light touch support through to intensive, around-the-clock care.
Each level is designed to align more closely with the needs of each individual, so that the right support is received at the right time. Below, we share a practical look into what each Support at Home classification level may include, and how it might be applied to a certain situation.
Level 1: Minimal Support for Independent Living
The Support at Home Level 1 classification is ideal for older Australians who are mostly independent but could use a little help now and then. This could mean having some assistance with light housework, occasional transport to appointments, or help preparing meals.
It’s a gentle form of support that helps maintain your independence and prevents small issues from becoming bigger ones. With this level, your Support at Home funding focuses on keeping you safe and comfortable, without taking away your self-sufficiency.
Level 2: Light Personal and Social Support
The Support at Home Level 2 classification adds more personal assistance where required such as with showering, getting dressed, or having more regular companionship visits to feel more connected.
The Support at Home funding at this level also helps cover light social support to keep you engaged and involved in your community; an element that’s just as important as physical health.
Level 3: Moderate Assistance with Daily Living
The Support at Home Level 3 classification provides more structured and consistent support, with weekly help available for diverse hygiene, mobility, and essential home tasks.
At this level, additional help with cooking meals that suit individual dietary needs, as well as early strategies for fall prevention or mild cognitive concerns, may also be included. The Support at Home funding levels continue to scale here, ensuring the required level of care without taking away from the individual’s autonomy.
Level 4: High-Frequency Personal and Domestic Support
The Support at Home Level 4 classification is ideal for those in need of daily assistance, including more frequent visits for showering, toileting, and dressing. It also covers regular cleaning and, where needed, small home safety upgrades such as grab rails or slip-resistant flooring.
These changes may seem simple but can make a big difference in helping an individual to reside safely in their own home, catering to the need for higher care while still promoting one’s ability to live independently.
Level 5: Daily Support with Health Monitoring
The Support at Home Level 5 classification introduces daily support that includes basic clinical care. This might involve help with taking medications, continence care, or regular home health monitoring to spot issues early.
Allied health professionals, such as physiotherapists or occupational therapists, may become more involved, helping you stay steady and well at home. The Level 5 classification focuses on preventing hospital visits and maintaining quality of life.
Level 6: Comprehensive Health and Clinical Care
The Support at Home Level 6 classification is suited for those individuals with ongoing or more complex health issues, and are in need of regular nursing care, physiotherapy, and/or occupational therapy.
The goal here is to manage health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or early dementia for example, all in the comfort of your own home. With more Support at Home funding available, the care provided at this level becomes proactive and tailored, while reducing the need for emergency interventions or hospitalisation.
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We’re here to help Australians navigate aged care with confidence, because no one should ever have to face this journey alone. We’re not a provider, but we’re here to match you with the right one.
With over 900+ providers Australia-wide, finding quality aged care is stressful and overwhelming. That’s why we 1:1 match you with only a trusted, compliant provider from our handpicked panel of only vetted providers – based on your unique needs.
Level 7: Intensive Daily Multidisciplinary Care
The Support at Home Level 7 classification is one of the highest Support at Home funding levels available, and is designed for people with high dependency. It may involve up to several visits each day from a team of carers and clinicians who work together to meet both your health and personal needs.
Support may include mobility aids, nutritional planning, pain management, and full personal care. This deeper level of support is provided without requiring the move into residential care.
Level 8: Highest Level of In-Home and Palliative Care
The Support at Home Level 8 classification provides the most comprehensive Support at Home funding. It offers 24-hour or continuous care for people living with advanced illness or at the end of life. This includes palliative care services focused on comfort, managing symptoms, and emotional wellbeing.
This level also supports families and carers during this difficult time, helping everyone feel better prepared and supported. Dignity, peace, and personalised care are the focus of this level for ultimately, keeping home a place that’s equipped to still reside in.
How Each Support at Home Classification Level Is Determined
Under the Support at Home program, each classification level is determined through a face-to-face assessment arranged via My Aged Care as part of the new Single Assessment System.
This assessment looks at an individual’s physical and emotional health, their daily routines, the state of their home, and what support is needed for them to stay safe and independent at home. This process matches an individual’s needs, health, and living situation to the appropriate classification level, ensuring their Support at Home funding accurately reflects the level of care and assistance required.
Transition from Home Care Packages (HCPs)
| HCP Level | Home Care Packages |
|---|---|
| HCP 1 | Transitioned HCP 1 |
| HCP 2 | Transitioned HCP 2 |
| HCP 3 | Transitioned HCP 3 |
| HCP 4 | Transitioned HCP 4 |
As eligible care recipients keep any unspent HCP funds, these can be used to cover extras like Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM), or additional services beyond what their quarterly Support at at Home funding covers.
The objective here is to make this transition as smooth as possible while allowing for increased flexibility and clearer options through these new Support at Home classifications. Should an individual’s needs change at a later date, a re-assessment can be arranged to shift to a different classification that better suits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are Support at Home budgets managed?
Your Support at Home funding is held safely by Services Australia, not by your provider. This means you’re able to stay in greater control while avoiding the hassle of day-to-day paperwork.
Your provider will work with you to create a plan that fits your care needs and budget, using approved services under your assigned Support at Home classification level. This approach helps older Australians manage their care without the stress of administrative red tape.
Can funds roll over between quarters?
Yes, they can. You’re allowed to roll over up to $1,000 or 10% of your quarterly Support at Home funding (whichever is greater) into the next quarter. This is especially helpful for unexpected situations – say, if your regular carer takes time off or your needs temporarily increase.
It’s just one of the ways Support at Home funding levels have been made more flexible than older systems.
How are Support at Home contributions calculated?
Most clinical care, like nursing or allied health for example, is fully covered by the Australian government under your Support at Home funding. For other services such as help around the house or personal care, you may be asked to contribute based on your income and assets:
– Full pensioners typically contribute 5 – 17.5%
– Part pensioners contribute between 5 – 80%
– Self-funded retirees may contribute up to 80%, with discounts if they hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
No one will pay beyond the current lifetime cap of $130,000, so you’re protected from excessive costs over time. To calculate your estimated contribution, simply use our CareAbout calculator here.
How often will I receive Support at Home budget statements?
Your provider must send you a clear, monthly statement that shows how your Support at Home funding has been used. This statement will typically include what services will be received, how much each service costs, what’s left in the budget, and any contributions that have already been made.
Overall, these Support at Home budget statements are key to making sure your care stays on track – and that you understand exactly where your funding is going.
What happens if my care needs change?
You’re never locked into one Support at Home level. If your needs increase, or even decrease by any chance, you can request a reassessment through My Aged Care at any time.
Should your personal situation change, your Support at Home funding can be adjusted to match – after all, the aim of Support at Home is to ensure that your care can keep up with you.
What happens to my unspent HCP funds?
If you’re transitioning from a Home Care Package, any unspent funds will come with you. These funds will be added to your Support at Home account and can be used for Assistive Technology, Home Modifications (AT-HM), or extra approved services after your regular quarterly Support at Home funding is used.
Who can help if I have a complaint or need advocacy?
If something doesn’t feel right, or if you just need support navigating these changes, you can contact the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) at 1800 700 600.
OPAN offers free, confidential advice and advocacy to make sure your voice is heard, whether it’s about your Support at Home level, your provider, or anything else related to your aged care.
Better yet, simply freecall us at 13 13 00 – we’re here to CareAbout you.