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If you or a loved one is exploring home care options in Australia, understanding the difference between the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP) is essential. Both programs provide professional support at home, but they cater to different levels of need. This guide explains the key differences and helps you choose the right option.
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.
The CHSP is an Australian Government-funded program designed for older Australians who need entry-level support to continue living independently at home.
Key Features of CHSP:
Designed for people with low care needs.
Provides support for daily living activities such as cleaning, shopping, meal preparation, and transport.
Offers social and community activities to reduce isolation.
Short-term or ongoing support depending on individual needs.
Tip: CHSP is ideal for seniors who want light support but do not yet require a full Home Care Package.
Home Care Packages provide higher-level, tailored care for older Australians with more complex needs. HCPs are available at four levels, depending on the intensity of support required:
Level 1: Basic care needs
Level 2: Low-level care needs
Level 3: Intermediate care needs
Level 4: High-level care needs
Key Features of HCP:
Tailored services including personal care, nursing, allied health support, and domestic assistance.
Flexible care plans designed to meet individual goals and preferences.
Government funding covers a significant portion of costs, with the possibility of additional fees depending on income.
Suitable for seniors with complex health conditions or high care needs.
| Feature | CHSP | Home Care Packages (HCP) |
|---|---|---|
| Level of Care | Entry-level, low support | Higher-level, tailored support |
| Eligibility | Seniors with basic care needs | Seniors with complex or high care needs |
| Services Offered | Domestic help, transport, social activities | Personal care, nursing, therapy, domestic help |
| Funding | Government-subsidised | Government-subsidised, plus potential co-payments |
| Care Plan | Standardised, short-term or ongoing | Personalised, long-term and flexible |
Tip: Many seniors start with CHSP and transition to a Home Care Package as their care needs increase.
Assess Your Care Needs: Consider the level of support needed for daily activities, health, and wellbeing.
Contact My Aged Care: Call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au for an assessment.
Receive an Assessment: The Aged Care Assessment team evaluates eligibility for CHSP or HCP.
Choose the Right Program: Based on assessment, select CHSP for light support or HCP for more comprehensive, tailored care.
Plan ahead: Early engagement with My Aged Care can prevent delays in accessing support.
Review regularly: Your care needs may change; regular reviews ensure you receive the right level of support.
Ask questions: Understand what services are included, costs, and waiting periods.
Understanding the difference between CHSP and Home Care Packages ensures older Australians receive the right support at the right time, helping maintain independence, health, and quality of life at 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.
