Are you waiting for a Support at Home Package?

32,000 more Support At Home Packages to be released....

Understanding the Support at Home Program

The Support at Home (SaH) Program commenced on 1 November 2025, replacing Home Care Packages (HCP) and introducing a new approach to government-funded care at home.

The program is designed to give older Australians more choice, flexibility and support to remain independent at home.

Support at Home introduced changes to how care is assessed, funded and delivered, including eight levels of ongoing support and new contribution arrangements based on the type of services you receive. Key updates include:

Feature HCP Program SaH Program
System StructureSeparate HCP and CHSP modelsCombined single system
Funding ModelPackage levels (1–4)Service-based funding based on assessed needs
Service Classification4 package levels8 service category levels
Budget AllocationBudget AllocationQuarterly allocation of budgets with rollover cap ($1,000 or 10%)
Large Purchases e.g. home modificationsAccumulate funding in packageSeparate funding for home modifications & assistive technology
Case Management (CM) FeesCare providers set their own CM fees but are capped at 20%.CM charges will now be 10% of your quarterly budget.
Package Management (PM) FeesCare providers set their own PM fees but are capped at 15%.Including PM fees must be included in the unit price.

These changes ensure that seniors and their families have a seamless and effective way to access the support they need.

How to Apply for a Support at Home Package

The Australian Government's release of 32,000 additional Support at Home places is welcome news for older Australians seeking greater access to in-home care.

To apply for a Support at Home package, visit the Government’s My Aged Care website for more information and guidance on the assessment process.

What services will I get under Support at Home?

The program offers a broad range of services tailored to help you live well at home. Based on your assessment and needs, you will have access to:

  • Clinical care

    Nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, continence support and Personal Care, including help with showering, dressing, grooming, personal hygiene and medication support. From 1 October 2026, there is no client contribution for approved Personal Care services.

  • Independence support

    Support to help you stay independent and connected, including transport, respite care and social support.

  • Everyday living services

    Help with everyday tasks around the home, including cleaning, gardening, shopping and meal preparation.

Services are flexible, and you can work with your provider to adjust them as your needs change.

Member Contributions

SaH Program introduces income-tested contributions for non-clinical services.  Contributions are based on your pension status:

  • Full pensioners - Pay minimal contributions.
  • Part pensioners and self-funded retirees - Contributions are assessed based on income and assets.
  • Self-funded retirees (without a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card) - Expected to pay higher contributions.

Standard Support at Home contribution rates

Participant Contribution Levels Clinical Supports Independence Everyday Living
Full Pensioner0%5%17.50%
Part Pensioner0%Between 5% & 50%*Between 17.5%-80%*
Self-Funded Retiree (holding or eligible for CHSC)0%Between 5% & 50%*Between 17.5%-80%*
Self-Funded Retiree (not eligible for CHSC)0%50%80%

*Percentage is based on an assessment of income and assets.

How Much Will I Pay?

The Support at Home Fee Estimator is a quick and easy tool that helps you get an idea of what you may need to contribute towards your Home Care Package or aged care home. By entering a few details about your income, assets, and household, the estimator provides an approximate figure to help you plan ahead. Please note this is only a guide. 

Your exact fees will depend on your personal financial situation at the time of care and the provider you choose.

How much government funding can I receive under Support at Home?

If you qualify for government funding under the new Support at Home program, you’ll be placed into one of eight funding levels. Your funding can be used to access a range of services, including nursing care, help with daily tasks, and support to maintain your independence at home.

  • Level 1

    $2,752.50 per quarter; $11,010.01 per annum

  • Level 2

    $4,112.84 per quarter; $16,451.35 per annum

  • Level 3

    $5,634.20 per quarter; $22,536.81 per annum

  • Level 4

    $7,617.13 per quarter; $30,468.51 per annum

  • Level 5

    $10,182.38 per quarter; $40,729.53 per annum

  • Level 6

    $12,341.32 per quarter; $49,365.27 per annum

  • Level 7

    $14,915.00 per quarter; $59,660.00 per annum

  • Level 8

    $20,034.28 per quarter; $80,137.12 per annum

To help you better understand how your Support at Home funding can be used, the government has released an Indicative Price Guide. This guide outlines the typical price ranges for all types of services—giving you a clearer picture of what’s considered reasonable and realistic when planning your care. It’s a helpful tool for making informed decisions and ensuring you get the most value from your package.

What are the other funding sources available aside from these eight funding levels?

Beyond your regular care funding, the Support at Home program offers additional financial assistance through several targeted pathways to help meet more specific or urgent needs:

  • Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM)

    This stream supports safety and independence through equipment or changes to your home:

    Low Tier: Up to $500 for minor improvements like grab bars.

    Medium Tier: Up to $2,000 for practical aids such as walkers or shower chairs.

    High Tier: $15,000+ for significant upgrades like installing ramps or accessible bathrooms (evidence required).

    Click here to read more about Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) funding.

  • Restorative Care Option

    Focused on helping you stay independent, this provides allied health and multidisciplinary therapy support for up to 12 weeks, with funding ranging from $6,000 to $12,000.

  • End-of-Life Care Option

    For those entering the final stages of life, this pathway provides up to $25,000 in funding across 3 months. Families have up to 16 weeks to use the funding for palliative and comfort care at home.

    Click here to learn more about the End-of-Life Pathway.

How Will the Support at Home Program Impact You?

What It Means for Current and New Users The Support at Home Program is designed to simplify access to care while maintaining high-quality services. Here’s what it means for you:

  • For Current Users

    Existing care arrangements will transition to the new program with minimal disruption. Your provider will guide you through the process and ensure your needs continue to be met.

  • For New Users

    The streamlined assessment and onboarding process make it easier than ever to access tailored home care services.

Understanding Contributions to Your Care

As part of the new Support at Home program, most participants will be required to pay a co-contribution (currently known as the Income Tested Fee), depending on their income and pension status. These contributions are determined by Services Australia and form part of your overall funding—not an additional charge. To learn more about how this may apply to you, read our full blog post on the Income Tested Fee here.

Government Resources

These resources provide comprehensive information to help you understand the program and make informed decisions about your care needs.

Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards

From 1 November 2025, the Australian Government is introducing Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards. These new Standards are clearer, more detailed, and outcome-focused. They set out exactly what older Australians can expect from their care, with a strong emphasis on dignity, respect, independence, safety, and cultural inclusion

For clients, this means:
Your rights are front and centre – dignity, choice, privacy, and respect are legal benchmarks.
Clearer expectations – you will know what quality care looks like and what to do if it isn’t being met.
Greater accountability – providers must meet higher standards and respond to feedback transparently.

These Strengthened Standards will work alongside the new Aged Care Act to give you more confidence in your care.

You can view and download the full Strengthened Standards on the Department of Health and Aged Care website.

Our Services

Our services are designed to enhance the quality of life for our clients, allowing them to stay safe, comfortable and independent in their own homes.

Personal Care

Assistance with hygiene, bathing, dressing, and grooming.

Companionship

Providing company and emotional support for clients.

Domestic Assistance

Domestic assistance, including nutritious meal preparation and household support.

Respite Care

Temporary care to relieve primary caregivers and give them a much-needed break.

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Tailored care for individuals with conditions like dementia, Parkinson’s, cancer, or other complex health issues.

Medication Management

Our preferred Clinical Partners, including nursing services for wound care and safe medication management.

Book Your Free Consultation Today!

The Support at Home Program represents a new era in home care services, offering more personalised, flexible, and efficient solutions for those who wish to remain independent at home. This change is designed to improve the quality of life for seniors and their families, ensuring access to the care and support they need. For tailored advice and support, contact us today. Our team is here to guide you through the process and ensure you make the most of this innovative program.