Support at Home program

The Australian Government is changing in-home care to help you live independently at home for longer.

The Support at Home program begins on 1 November. It will replace the Home Care Packages (HCP) Program and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme. Support at Home is part of the new Aged Care Act, which puts the rights of older people first.

This page has information on Support at Home, what it means for you if you already receive a Home Care Package, and links to useful resources.

Support at Home program – overview for older people

Home is where we feel safe and where memories are made. We're making changes to aged care so you can get the support you need to stay at home.

The Australian government's new support at home program will help older people live independently for longer in their own homes. Support at home replaces the existing home care packages and short-term restorative care programs with one new program ensuring that the support you need to stay at home is there when you need it. You can get support for everyday tasks like cleaning, gardening, shopping, and meal preparation if you are approved.

You'll also have access to clinical care like nursing, physiotherapy, and continents care. If you have more complex needs, higher levels of support are available to help you stay in your home.

There are also short-term pathways to meet your needs. The assistive technology and home modifications scheme helps you to access products, equipment, and home modifications to support you with things like mobility, domestic life, and communication.

The restorative care pathway can help you stay independent and keep doing the activities you enjoy. The end of life pathway provides extra support for those nearing the end of life, allowing older people to stay in their home as long as possible.

If you're already receiving a home care package, you won't need a new assessment. Your provider will contact you about moving to support at home. They will review your care plan and you will be asked to sign an agreement.

Getting older doesn't mean you need to leave your home to be cared for. Support at home is here to help you stay in the place where you are most comfortable.

To learn more, contact my aged care for help. Support at home. Helping you live independently for longer at home.

About the Support at Home program

Under Support at Home, you will have better access to services, products, equipment and home modifications to help you remain healthy, active and socially connected.

Support at Home includes:

more funding levels for complex needs
better access to assessment and reassessments as your needs change
the Restorative Care Pathway, to maintain and improve your independence through allied health services
the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications scheme for access to products, equipment and home modifications to meet your assessed needs
the End-of-Life Pathway, with extra funding to support older people to stay at home in their last 3 months of life.

Based on your aged care assessment and eligibility, your provider will discuss with you the mix of services to meet your needs and budget.

If you're currently receiving a Home Care Package

If you're already receiving a Home Care Package, you can talk to your provider about moving to Support at Home and what it means for you.

Support at Home program