News and updates

Older person receiving assistance at home

New Support at Home factsheets now available

We are improving in-home aged care to help you live independently at home for longer. The new Support at Home program will begin from 1 November 2025.

New Aged Care Act to start from 1 November

The new Aged Care Act 2024 and Support at Home program start will be briefly deferred to the 1 November 2025.

Preparing for the new Support at Home program

The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is sending a letter and a checklist to everyone on a Home Care Package, to help them prepare for the new Support at Home program.

The new Aged Care Act will put older people’s rights first

From 1 November, this year, the new Aged Care Act will ensure the rights of older people are at the centre of aged care. It will make the system safer, fairer and more respectful for older people accessing aged care services.

Support person cooking for an older Australian

Support at Home pricing changes

From 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program will replace the Home Care Packages Program. If you currently receive Home Care Package services, this may mean the cost of some of your services will change.

Older Australian receiving nursing services

Protect yourself from COVID-19 and flu

COVID-19 and flu can lead to serious health complications. Staying up to date with vaccinations and getting support when you feel unwell are important to protect yourself and others.

Image of house to represent Home Care Packages

Increase to the value of your Home Care Package

The Australian Government is supporting further increases to the award wages of many registered and enrolled nurses working in aged care. As a result of this, the government has increased how much it contributes towards your Home Care package to cover this increase.

Have your say on aged care reform in Australia

We invite everyone to continue to have their say about the aged care reforms. There are plenty of opportunities for you to stay informed and have your say through surveys, webinars, online workshops, consultation papers and face-to-face events.

How you appoint a support person has changed

If you're planning for, or receiving, aged care services it can help to appoint a person to support you. You can now appoint an individual or an advocacy organisation to support you through the aged care process.

Spotlight: My Aged Care’s Help explorer

If you're unsure about what aged care services are available, it can help to read about people in similar situations and how they received help.

Explore the OPAN self-advocacy toolkit

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has released a free self-advocacy toolkit. If you are looking into aged care services, the toolkit can give you the skills, information, and resources you need.