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Finding the right support doesn’t have to be stressful. With our FREE Home Care Shortlist, you can quickly connect with trusted local providers who meet your needs.
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Home Care (also known as in-home care, community care, home help, home support or in-home nursing care) is designed to help older Australians continue living safely and independently at home.
Instead of moving into a residential aged care home, many seniors choose home care so they can stay connected to family, friends and their community.
Home care services support daily living, health needs and household tasks. Common services include:
Personal care – showering, dressing, mobility support
Meal assistance – meal preparation and help with eating
Domestic support – cleaning, laundry, vacuuming, general household tasks
Gardening & home maintenance
Transport – shopping, medical appointments, social outings
Nursing care & medication management
Allied health – physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, speech therapy
Need something specific? Most providers will tailor services to suit your individual needs.
A Home Care Package (HCP) is government-funded support designed to help you remain at home for longer. Each package is flexible and tailored to meet your level of care needs.
There are four package levels:
Level 1 – basic care needs
Level 2 – low care needs
Level 3 – intermediate care needs
Level 4 – high care needs
Home Care Packages are delivered under Consumer Directed Care (CDC), giving you the freedom to choose your provider and how funds are spent.
| Package Level | Care Needs | Typical Services | Approx. Annual Funding (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Basic care needs | Help with cleaning, laundry, meal prep, shopping, light gardening, transport | ~$10,300 |
| Level 2 | Low care needs | Personal care (showering, dressing), plus Level 1 services, transport, social support | ~$18,100 |
| Level 3 | Intermediate care needs | Nursing care, medication management, allied health, mobility aids, plus Level 1–2 services | ~$39,300 |
| Level 4 | High care needs | Daily nursing care, dementia support, palliative care, complex health management, plus Level 1–3 services | ~$59,600 |
The Australian Government subsidises the cost of Home Care Packages, but you may be required to contribute depending on your financial situation.
Income-tested fees are determined by a Centrelink assessment.
If you’re not eligible for a subsidised package, you can still access the full range of services privately.
A Home Care Package can fund a wide variety of supports, including:
Personal care (showering, dressing, shopping, mobility)
Domestic assistance (cleaning, laundry, vacuuming)
Meal preparation and eating support
Medication management
Nursing services
Transport for appointments and shopping
Allied health and therapy services
Your package funds cannot be used for:
Food and groceries
Rent, mortgage or permanent accommodation costs
Travel and holiday expenses
Home modifications unrelated to care needs
Memberships, tickets or gambling
Home care services are available Australia-wide, including:
Getting started is easier than you think. Follow these five steps:
Check eligibility – Call My Aged Care (1800 200 422) to arrange a free assessment.
Find a provider – Compare approved home care providers near you.
Understand the costs – Review government funding and personal contributions.
Accept your package – Once allocated, choose your preferred provider.
Start services – Begin receiving tailored support at home.
Learn more about applying for a Home Care Package
Eligibility is determined through a free aged care assessment.
An assessor will review your needs and recommend the right package level.
If you’re not eligible, or need more support than your package allows, you can still purchase additional services privately.
How long does it take to get a Home Care Package?
Wait times vary depending on demand and your assessed level. Interim services may be available while you wait.
Can I choose my own provider?
Yes. All packages are delivered on a Consumer Directed Care (CDC) basis, giving you full choice and control.
What if I need urgent support while waiting for my package?
You can access short-term services privately or through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).
Finding the right home care provider doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re applying for a package or looking for immediate services, there are providers ready to help across Australia.
