Support at Home Program - Frequently Asked Questions

The Support at Home program is designed to help older Australians live independently while receiving the care and support they need. If you or a loved one are considering this program, you may have questions about how it works, what services are available, and how to apply. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Support at Home program.

1. What is the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home program is a government-funded initiative aimed at providing older Australians with flexible, tailored care services to help them remain in their own homes for as long as possible. It is designed to replace the existing home care programs, including the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP), with a more streamlined and simplified system.

2. Who is eligible for the Support at Home program?

Eligibility is generally based on age and need. You must:

Be aged 65 or older (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people).
Require support to continue living safely and independently at home.
Undergo an assessment by the government’s My Aged Care team to determine your level of need.

3. What types of services are available?

The program offers a wide range of support services, including:

Personal care: Assistance with showering, dressing, and grooming.
Domestic assistance: Help with cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation.
Transport: Assistance with getting to appointments or running errands.
Social support: Companionship and participation in community activities.
Home modifications: Changes to improve safety, such as handrails or ramps.
Allied health services: Physiotherapy, podiatry, and other therapies.
Nursing care: In-home medical care and medication management.

4. How do I apply for Support at Home?

To access the program, follow these steps:

Contact My Aged Care – Visit www.myagedcare.gov.au or call 1800 200 422.
Complete an assessment – A representative will evaluate your needs and determine the level of support required.
Receive approval and select a provider – Once approved, you can choose a provider using Aged Care Online to deliver the services tailored to your needs.
Start receiving support – Your chosen provider will work with you to create a care plan and begin delivering services.

5. How much does the program cost?

The cost depends on your financial situation and the level of support required. While the Australian Government subsidises a significant portion of the costs, you may need to contribute based on your income and assets. A financial assessment may be required to determine your contribution.

6. Can I change my service provider?

Yes, you have the flexibility to change providers if you are not satisfied with the care you receive. If you wish to switch, you will need to notify your current provider and work with My Aged Care to transition to a new one.

7. How is the Support at Home program different from the current system?

The program is designed to offer more flexibility, streamline access to services, and reduce complexity. Unlike the existing system, which has multiple funding models, Support at Home aims to provide a single, unified program that better meets individual needs.

8. When will the Support at Home program begin?

The Australian Government plans to implement the new program in July 2025. In the meantime, existing programs such as CHSP and HCP will continue to operate.

9. How do I get more information?

For more details, you can:

Visit www.myagedcare.gov.au
Call My Aged Care at 1800 200 422
Speak with a local aged care provider for personalised advice

The Support at Home program is designed to make it easier for older Australians to access the care they need while maintaining independence. If you or a loved one could benefit from these services, now is the time to explore your options and prepare for the transition.