Support At Home Programme | News & Info | Care For Family

As Australians age, the need for quality care and support at home grows. To address this, the Australian Government is introducing the Support at Home program, a significant change designed to make it easier for seniors to receive the care services, equipment, and home modifications they need to live independently and comfortably for longer.

What is the Support at Home program?

Following the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety in December 2023, the Australian Government is reforming in-home aged care programs to create a more streamlined and person-centred system. The Support at Home program will be rolled out in two stages:

• Stage 1 (starting July 2025): This stage replaces the existing home care packages and short-term restorative care programs that many seniors already use.
• Stage 2 (starting no earlier than July 2027): This stage will bring the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), a government-funded program that helps with everyday tasks, under the same umbrella as the in-home care services.

What are the benefits?

The Support at Home program aims to make things easier and better for both seniors and their families:

• More choice and control: Individuals will have a broader range of care services, allowing them to personalise their support based on their specific needs and preferences. This could include help with things like housework, personal care, transport, and social connection. They may also be eligible for equipment and home modifications to enhance their independence and safety.
• More straightforward access: A single assessment process will streamline how people access the care they need, reducing paperwork and making it easier to get started.
• Greater transparency: A clear list of available services will ensure everyone understands what's on offer, making it easier to find the right care, equipment, and home modification options.

What does this mean for families?

The Support at Home program empowers families to be more involved in their loved one's care. With greater flexibility and personalised plans, families can work with care providers to create a support system that best suits their individual needs, ensuring their loved ones feel comfortable and cared for at home, with the care quality and safety they deserve.

Staying informed:

While the full program rollout is still some time away, staying informed is important. The Department of Health and Aged Care has resources available to answer your questions, including online Q&A sessions and website updates. You can visit their website or attend one of their sessions to learn more about the transition to the new program.

Remember, this information is for general knowledge only and shouldn't be a substitute for professional advice. It's always best to consult with relevant authorities or healthcare professionals for personalised guidance related to the Support at Home program.

If you would like to learn more about how the programme might affect you, you can get in touch with the Care For Family Team and we’ll do our best to help.

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