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Private (self-funded) home care enables individuals to pay out-of-pocket for personalised assistance and support delivered to their home - without waiting for government assessment or subsidy. It offers immediate access, flexibility, and greater choice in the services received.
| Reason | Benefit |
|---|---|
| No Waiting Time | Begin care immediately - ideal when waiting for a Home Care Package (HCP) or Support at Home Program funding to come through. |
| More Control & Personalisation | Choose the type, frequency, and provider of services - from domestic assistance to specialised clinical care. |
| Supplement Government Care | Add extra hours or services beyond your subsidised package. |
| Simplified Process | Skip My Aged Care assessments and reduce paperwork. |
Personal savings, investments, or family contributions
Reverse mortgages or equity release from your home
Superannuation (released early on compassionate grounds)
Private health or life insurance, if your policy includes home care coverage
Australia's home care funding is evolving. The Home Care Packages (HCP) and Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) are being replaced by the Support at Home Program in November 2025.
Government funding still includes a subsidy plus potential supplements for eligible care recipients.
Private funding serves as a cost-effective bridge while waiting for government support or for additional services beyond coverage.
Many older Australians face significant delays for HCP access. As of mid-2025, tens of thousands remain on waitlists despite reforms - including over 100,000 new packages promised by the government.
In rural areas especially, private options are often the only viable route due to limited services and funding gaps.
Assess Your Needs - Decide if you need one-off help, temporary support, or long-term care.
Compare Providers - Look for quality, reviews, flexibility, and transparent pricing.
Budget Smartly - Plan for how funding (savings, assets, or insurance) will sustain your care.
Stay Informed - Keep up with upcoming Support at Home reforms and how they may affect your eligibility.
Do I need an ACAT/My Aged Care assessment for private care?
No - you can start private care without any government assessment.
Can I still use private care if I have or am eligible for a Home Care Package?
Yes - private care is a great option while you await package allocation or if you want additional services beyond what government funding covers.
What funding sources can help cover private care?
Options include personal savings, reverse mortgages, superannuation (in special circumstances), and private insurance.
Finding quality home care can be overwhelming, but our Home Care Shortlist makes it easy. Compare local providers, connect directly, and request information or consultations - all in one place. This saves time and ensures informed decisions.
