Introducing the Support at Home Program
A New Era in Home Care Services – important government update
Support at Home is a new government-funded aged care program replacing the Home Care Packages (HCP) Program and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC).
Great news for our community: the Australian Government is releasing 20,000 new Home Care Packages before 1 November 2025, followed by another 20,000 Support at Home packages by the end of December. More packages will also become available in early 2026.
The program offers simplified funding, new assessments, and better access to services, equipment, and home modifications to help older Australians remain independent at home.
Learn More:
What’s New with the Support at Home Program?
Understanding the Key Changes
The Support at Home Program brings a fresh approach to home care services, building upon the strengths of the Home Care Packages while addressing existing challenges. Key updates include:
| Feature | HCP Program | SaH Program |
| System Structure | Separate HCP and CHSP models | Combined single system |
| Funding Model | Package-based funding | Service-based funding based |
| Service Classification | 4 package levels | 8 service category levels |
| Budget Allocation | Daily allocation of budget | Quarterly allocation of budgets with rollover cap ($1,000 or 10%) |
| Large Purchases e.g. home modifications | Accumulate funding in package | Separate funding for home modifications & assistive technology |
| Case Management (CM) Fees | Care providers set their own CM fees but are capped at 20% | CM charges will now be 10% of your quarterly budget |
| Package Management (PM) Fees | Care 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.
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.
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
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.
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, and continence support.
- Independence support: Assistance with showering, dressing, taking medications, and transportation.
- Everyday living services: Help with cleaning, gardening, shopping, meal preparation, and respite care.
Services are flexible, and you can work with your provider to adjust them as your needs change.
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.
| Classification | Quarterly Budget | Annual Amount |
| 1 | $2,752.50 | $11,010.01 |
| 2 | $4,112.84 | $16,451.35 |
| 3 | $5,634.20 | $22,536.81 |
| 4 | $7,617.13 | $30,468.51 |
| 5 | $10,182.38 | $40,729.53 |
| 6 | $12,341.32 | $49,365.27 |
| 7 | $14,915.00 | $59,660.00 |
| 8 | $20,034.28 | $80,137.12 |
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 learn 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.
Helping You Understand the Changes
Learn More Through Our Information Sessions
We are hosting a series of information sessions across Sydney East at retirement villages and over 50s resorts. These sessions are designed to help residents understand the upcoming changes with the Support at Home Program and how it may impact them. Our team will provide clear explanations, share insights on the benefits of the program, and answer any questions you may have.
What to Expect:
• Comprehensive explanations of the Support at Home Program.
• Guidance on transitioning from the Home Care Packages system.
• Tips on accessing personalised care under the new program.
• A Q&A session to address your specific concerns.
Join us to stay informed and prepared for this new era of home care services. Contact us for more information or to find a session near you.
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. Home Care Assistance can guide you through the process and ensure your needs continue to be met.
• For New Users: The streamlined assessment and onboarding process will make it easier 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.
How do I apply for the new program?
You can start by visiting the Government’s My Aged Care website for detailed information and instructions.
Government Resources
Explore & Download External Support at Home Resources.
• Support at Home Service List
These resources provide comprehensive information to help you understand the program and make informed decisions about your care needs.
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.
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