From 1 July 2025, the Australian Government will introduce a new system called Support at Home, which will replace the Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs. While the goal is to simplify and improve aged care services at home, it’s natural to feel unsure about what this might mean for you or a family member currently receiving care.
At HenderCare, we’re committed to keeping our clients and their families informed and supported throughout the transition. Here’s what you need to know about Support at Home, and how we can help.
WHAT IS SUPPORT AT HOME?
Support at Home is a new program that aims to streamline aged care delivery to older Australians. Instead of the current Home Care Package levels (1–4), there will be eight funding levels based on individual needs, plus short-term options for things like recovery or end-of-life care.
The new system is designed to offer:
- More flexibility in how funding is used
- Quicker access to services
- A simpler structure that’s easier to understand and manage
- A stronger focus on clinical and personal care, with clearer guidelines on what can be funded
WHAT ABOUT THE CHSP PROGRAM?
If you or a loved one receives care through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), there’s no need to panic, as CHSP will continue unchanged until at least 1 July 2027. However, if you have noticed needs changing, now might be a good time to consider whether a Home Care Package could better support you or a loved one before the new system begins.
WHAT SERVICES WILL BE INCLUDED?
The Support at Home program will group services into clearer categories, including:
- Clinical Supports – such as nursing care, occupational therapy and physiotherapy.
- Independence – such as personal care, social support, respite care, community engagement and transport.
- Everyday Living – such as domestic assistance, home maintenance and repairs, and meals.
Assistive Technology and Home Modification funding will also be available for those assessed as requiring support in this area.
These services are designed to help older people remain safe, well, and independent at home for as long as possible.
WILL OLDER PEOPLE PAY MORE?
Under the new system, people will only contribute to the services they receive. There will be no contribution for clinical supports, moderate contributions for services to support independence including personal care, social support and transport, with higher contributions for everyday living services like meals, cleaning or gardening. If you or a loved one is a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holder, they’ll likely pay less than other self-funded retirees. That said, the full details are still being finalised – so it’s a good idea to stay in the loop.
HOW CAN HENDERCARE HELP?
At HenderCare, we’re already preparing for the changes ahead. Whether you or a loved one are currently receiving support or just starting to explore their options, we’re here to:
- Help you understand what Support at Home means for your family
- Guide you through the transition, including exploring assessments
- Continue delivering trusted, compassionate in-home services tailored to your loved one’s needs
We’ve also created an easy-to-follow information hub online at: hendercare.com.au/aged-care-services/understanding-support-at-home
Here you’ll find updates, frequently asked questions, and practical advice to help you make informed decisions.
A FINAL WORD
Change can be challenging, especially when it affects something as personal as care for a loved one. But with the right information and support, the transition to Support at Home can be a smooth one. All information in this article is current at the time of writing and is intended as a general guide only. As the government releases more details in the lead-up to July 2025, we will continue to keep you updated because you and your loved ones deserve care you can count on.
Need help navigating your next steps? We’re just a call away. Find out more at 1300 764 433 or
hendercare.com.au
