The Home Care Package program will be replaced by the Support at Home program from 1 July 2025. As part of the aged care reforms, all Home Care Package recipients will be transitioned to this new system. The Support at Home program has been developed to enable more funding, provide a higher quality of care, and improve the overall system as Australia’s population continues to age.
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To ensure all Home Care Package recipients continue to receive the funding they need, the “No worse off” principle has been introduced. This ensures that your funding will not be reduced during the transition to the new system.
The “No worse off principle” will apply to contributions arrangements for people who, as of 12 September 2024, were either receiving a Home Care Package, on the National Priority System, or assessed as eligible for a package. These participants will not face higher contributions compared to what they would have paid under the Home Care Package arrangements.
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The Support at Home system is being reformed to improve the delivery of care and funding. Some key changes include:
The Support at Home system places a strong emphasis on independence. Participants will have immediate access to assistive technology and home modifications through the new Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme. This separate funding scheme means that care recipients no longer need to save their package funds for these supports.
The AT-HM scheme will cover prescriptions, item purchases, delivery, and installation. Additionally, extra funding is available for restorative care and end-of-life care, with up to $25,000 provided over a 12-week period, as needed.
The new program is a response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
Support at Home is one way the government is addressing the recommendations and providing older Australians with easier access to services.
Clinical care (e.g., nursing and physiotherapy): Fully funded by the government across the aged care system to help keep care recipients healthy and active Independence services (e.g., personal care): Moderately funded, reflecting their importance in maintaining independence Everyday living services (e.g., cleaning and gardening): Attract higher contribution rates, as these are not typically covered by government funding