Commonwealth Home Support Programme
As you get older, everyday tasks can become more difficult. Even though you need help, you may still want to live at home. Asking for help doesn’t mean losing your independence or moving out of home.
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) helps senior Australians access entry-level support services to live independently and safely at home.
CHSP works with you to maintain your independence rather than doing things for you.
Is it for me?
Eligibility for this program is based on your support needs and age.
If you’re having trouble with everyday tasks and feel that a little support could improve your health and wellbeing, CHSP could be right for you.
To be eligible for this program, you must be aged:
- 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people), or
- 50 years or older (45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and on a low income, homeless, or at risk of being homeless.
A face-to-face assessment will determine eligibility and ensure that the right services are made available to those that need them.
If your needs are more complex, a Home Care Package could be better suited to you.
Services that keep me well and independent
| Meals and other food services | Pre-made meals and help with food preparation |
| Personal care | Help with showering, self-care, hygiene and grooming |
| Nursing | Help with medicines, telehealth support |
| Allied health and therapy services | Health and therapy services e.g. podiatry and occupational therapy |
| Specialised support | Help for people with a particular condition e.g. vision, dementia |
| Respite care | Care for you while your carer takes a break |
Services that keep me safe in my home
| Domestic assistance | Help with basic chores around the house |
| Home maintenance | Help with keeping your home and garden safe |
| Home modifications | Changes to your home to improve safety and access e.g. ramps and rails |
| Goods, equipment and assistive technology | Items to help you get around or adapt e.g. walking frame, shower chair |
Services that keep me connected with my community
| Transport | Community transport or vouchers to attend appointments or activities |
| Social support | Contact and company with others e.g. social groups |
Services for people experiencing homelessness
| Homelessness support | Linking to housing and care services for people experiencing homelessness |
Who provides the services?
To make sure you can access the help you need at an affordable price, the government subsidises a variety of organisations across Australia. These organisations are called service providers. They deliver care and services to you at a subsidised price.
To find out what services are available near you, use our Find a provider tool.
How much will it cost me?
If you are eligible, you’re expected to contribute to the cost of your care if you can afford to. The cost depends on the type of support and the provider. Simple services like house cleaning and meals might cost a few dollars. More complex services like renovation work will cost much more.
Each provider sets their own prices. You’ll need to talk to them to get exact costs. You can find CHSP service providers using the Find a provider tool.
Read more about how CHSP service costs work.
How long will it take to get some help at home?
First you will need to be assessed. After that it will depend on the availability of service providers in your area to offer the service you need.