What You Need to Know About the New Support at Home Program

The Australian Government is rolling out major changes to in-home aged care. Starting 1 July 2025, the Support at Home program will replace the Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care Programme, while the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) will transition no earlier than 1 July 2027. These reforms aim to simplify the system, create equity, and empower older Australians to live independently at home for longer.

If you’re currently receiving a Home Care Package or considering applying for one, here’s what you need to know about these changes.

What Is the Support at Home Program?

The Support at Home program consolidates multiple in-home aged care services into one streamlined system. This new approach focuses on flexibility, personalised care, and improving access to essential services.

Key Features & Benefits:

1. Higher Funding Levels:
   Maximum annual funding is increasing from $61,440 to $78,000, ensuring greater support for participants with complex needs.
2. Assistive Technology & Home Modifications:
   Eligible participants can access up to $15,000 annually for essential aids like walking devices or shower chairs, as well as home modifications like grab rails and ramps to enhance safety and independence.
3. Fair Contributions:
   Contributions will be based on participants’ means:
   • Clinical care (e.g., nursing or physiotherapy) is fully funded by the Government.
   • Contributions for independence and everyday living services are capped and adjusted to income levels, ensuring fairness for all.
4. Support for Complex Needs:
   The Specialised Pathways program includes options like the End-of-Life Pathway for palliative support and the Restorative Care Pathway to regain independence, offering specialised care for those with significant needs.
5. Expanded Short-Term Care:
   Restorative care programs now cover up to 12 weeks (or 16 in specific cases), focusing on goal-oriented, allied health-driven support to help participants regain independence.

Specialised Pathways

the introduction of Specialised Pathways in the Support at Home program represents a new development in Australia’s in-home aged care system. These pathways are designed to provide targeted support for specific needs, enhancing the flexibility and responsiveness of care services.

1. Restorative Care Pathway: This pathway focuses on early intervention to help individuals regain or maintain their independence. It offers intensive allied health services and goal-oriented support, extending up to 12 weeks, with the possibility of up to 16 weeks in special circumstances. This extension allows for more comprehensive rehabilitation efforts compared to previous programs.
2. End-of-Life Pathway: A new addition to the in-home care framework, this pathway provides up to $25,000 over three months for additional care and services, enabling individuals to spend their final months at home if they choose. It is designed to complement state-based palliative care services, ensuring dignity and comfort during this critical time.

These specialised pathways are part of the broader reforms under the Support at Home program, aiming to offer more tailored and flexible support options for older Australians. By addressing specific care needs through these pathways, the program seeks to improve the quality and effectiveness of in-home aged care services.

For Current Home Care Package Recipients

• Smooth Transition:
  If you’re already receiving care under the Home Care Packages Program, you’ll automatically move to the Support at Home program. Your current funding level will remain the same, and no reassessment is needed unless your care needs change.
• Unspent Funds:
  Any unused funds from your existing Home Care Package will carry over, giving you continued access to additional support under the new program.

For New Applicants

• Streamlined Access:
  The Single Assessment System aims to simplify the process and reduce wait times, with a goal of three-month approvals by 2027. This ensures faster access to much-needed care and support.
• Comprehensive Support Plans:
  During the assessment process, you’ll receive a detailed plan outlining your care needs, goals, and budget. This personalized roadmap ensures you know exactly what services you’re entitled to and how to access them.

What Stays the Same?

• Provider Continuity:
  Your current provider will continue delivering services as long as they are registered under the Support at Home framework.
• Care Management:
  Dedicated care partners will still guide you through the system, helping to adjust your services as your needs evolve. Care management is now allocated 10% of your budget, ensuring a focus on tailored planning and support.

What’s Next?

The Government will release more resources, including a Support at Home handbook and program manual, to help participants and providers prepare for the transition. In the meantime:

• Speak to your care provider to discuss how these changes might affect you.
• If you’re considering applying for aged care services, start gathering information about the new system to understand your options.

The Support at Home program represents a significant step forward in aged care reform, promising a simpler, fairer, and more flexible approach to help older Australians remain at home. Whether you’re already receiving care or planning to apply, these changes are designed to better meet your needs and provide the support you deserve.

If you have questions or need advice, our Home Care Assistance team is here to help. Let us guide you through these changes with confidence and care. Visit our website or contact us today for more information.

Ref: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/support-at-home/about