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Aged care programs

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There are different programs that can provide quality care as you get older.

You may need ongoing or short-term help at home, or you might be looking into aged care homes. Whatever your aged care needs or situation, it’s good to know what support options are out there.

This page looks at what government-funded aged care programs are available and how to access them. 

Commonwealth Home Support Program

If you are able to manage, but need support with, a few tasks, you could be eligible for subsidised support services through the Commonwealth Home Support Program. 

Commonwealth Home Support Program

Entry-level care for those who need a low level of support to keep living independently and safely at home. Supports can include one or 2 basic services.

Support at Home program

Support at Home can be an option if the care you need is more complex or intensive. It provides a coordinated approach to your help at home, offering ongoing care as well as 3 short-term pathways.

Support at Home replaced the Home Care Packages Program and the Short-Term Restorative Care Programme on 1 November 2025.

Support at Home program

Designed to support those with more complex or intensive care needs. It provides ongoing and short-term access to services to help you stay at home for longer.

Assistive Technology and Home Modifications scheme

Upfront funding for necessary assistive technology and home modifications to remain at home safely and independently.

End-of-Life Pathway

Supports older people to remain at home in their last 3 months of life. It provides additional care during this time and can be accessed through a high priority assessment.

Aged care homes

You might be at a stage where you no longer feel able to live independently at home, even with carer support or home care services to help you. If that’s the case, it may be time to consider moving into an aged care home.

Aged care homes

Suitable for older people who can no longer live independently at home and need ongoing help with everyday tasks or health care. Also called residential aged care.

Transition care

You may need some extra support after a stay in hospital. You may be able to get services for a short period of time through the Transition Care Program. You can ask the hospital staff or call My Aged Care to arrange an assessment for you in the hospital.

Transition care

Short-term care and support to help you regain your functional independence and confidence after a hospital stay.

Specialised care programs

There are also programs that provide services tailored to meet the needs of specific communities. 

National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care Program

Provides flexible, culturally safe aged care services to support older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to remain close to home and community.

Multi-Purpose Service Program

Provides integrated health and aged care services for older people living in rural and remote areas where communities don't have a stand-alone hospital or aged care home.

How do I access aged care services?

An aged care assessment will determine the type of care and services you may be eligible for.

Using our online tool, you can check if you meet the requirements for an assessment before you decide to apply for one.