- Home
- Residential Aged Care
- Home Care
- Retirement Living
- Support Services
- Aged Care Jobs
- Request Shortlist
Are you or a loved one looking for home care services in Australia? Staying at home while receiving professional support allows older Australians to maintain independence, comfort, and quality of life. This step-by-step guide explains how to access support at home services, from assessment to ongoing care.
Confident choices start with our Home Care Shortlist. Take the stress out of finding support - our Home Care Shortlist makes it easy to connect with trusted providers near you. Just tell us what you need and we’ll match you with qualified local providers - saving you hours of calls and confusion.
Before applying, it’s important to know the types of care available:
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP): Entry-level support including domestic assistance, transport, and social activities.
Home Care Packages (HCP): For more complex needs, ranging from Level 1 (basic support) to Level 4 (high-level care).
Short-term or respite care: Temporary assistance or recovery support.
Private home care services: Paid directly without government funding, offering flexible and immediate access.
Tip: Learn more about the difference between CHSP and Home Care Packages to decide which option suits you.
My Aged Care is the starting point for accessing government-supported home care:
Call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au.
Request an assessment for home care eligibility.
Get information on available services in your local area.
An Aged Care Assessment team will:
Assess your care needs.
Determine eligibility for CHSP or a Home Care Package.
Recommend a suitable level of care.
After assessment, you will get:
Approval for a Home Care Package if eligible.
A referral code to access services.
Details on package level and available funding.
With your approval, select a provider that meets your needs:
Compare services, costs, and reviews.
Consider providers that respect your personal or cultural preferences.
Discuss your care plan and ensure flexibility to adjust services.
Accessing home care and support at home services in Australia is straightforward when you follow these steps. Start your journey today to maintain independence and receive professional care in the comfort of your own home.
Confident choices start with our Home Care Shortlist. Take the stress out of finding support - our Home Care Shortlist makes it easy to connect with trusted providers near you. Just tell us what you need and we’ll match you with qualified local providers - saving you hours of calls and confusion.
Q1: What is home care in Australia?
Home care provides professional support to older Australians who wish to live independently at home. Services can include personal care, nursing, domestic assistance, social support, and transport.
Q2: How do I access home care services?
You start by contacting My Aged Care (1800 200 422) to request an assessment. After eligibility is confirmed, you receive a referral and choose a provider to develop a personalised care plan.
Q3: What is the difference between CHSP and Home Care Packages?
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) offers basic, entry-level support, while Home Care Packages (HCP) provide higher-level, tailored care for people with more complex needs, from Level 1 to Level 4.
Q4: How long does it take to get home care approved?
Approval times vary depending on service demand and assessment results. CHSP services may be available sooner, while Home Care Packages can have waiting lists, especially for higher-level care.
Q5: Can I change my home care provider?
Yes, you have the flexibility to change providers or adjust services to better suit your needs. Regular care reviews ensure the services remain appropriate.
Q6: Are home care services covered by the government?
Yes, approved services under CHSP and Home Care Packages are subsidised by the Australian Government. Some out-of-pocket costs may apply depending on income and the type of service.
Q7: How often is my care plan reviewed?
Care plans are usually reviewed annually, or more frequently if your health or personal needs change, ensuring your support stays relevant and effective.
