The Transition to the Support at Home Program
Australia’s aged care system is undergoing significant reform to better support older Australians who wish to maintain their independence at home. From 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program will replace the existing Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs. This change aims to create a more simplified, flexible and needs-based aged care system, ensuring services are tailored to individual requirements and can adapt as those needs evolve.
Key Changes Under the Support at Home Program
What is Support at Home?
The Support at Home program is a new initiative by the Australian Government designed to streamline in-home aged care services. It consolidates multiple existing programs into a single, cohesive system, making it easier for older Australians to access the care they need to live independently at home for longer.
How It Differs from Home Care Packages
Under the current HCP system, care is divided into four levels, each with fixed funding and service options. The Support at Home program introduces eight levels of support, offering more tailored and flexible care options. Additionally, it includes new short-term care pathways, such as Restorative Care and End-of-Life Care, providing targeted support during critical periods.
Consider John, a 75-year-old Mandurah resident currently receiving a Level 3 Home Care Package. Under the new program, John’s care will automatically transition to a classification with an equivalent budget under Support at Home. John’s provider will contact him to complete a new agreement under support at home and ensure his services are meeting his needs. Should his care needs change he can be assessed for a different classification level under support at home.
Why These Changes Matter
These changes respond directly to issues highlighted by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The goal is to shift towards a more person-centred, adaptable model, where older Australians can access the right support as their needs change. With improved flexibility and timely care, the program is designed to support both independence and overall quality of life.
Eligibility and How to Access Support At Home
Who Will Be Eligible?
Eligibility for the Support at Home program includes:
- People aged 65 or older
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 or older
- People aged 50 or older who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
Assessments will be conducted using the new Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT), streamlining the evaluation process and ensuring appropriate care levels are assigned.
How to Transition from Home Care Packages to Support At Home
Older Australians currently receiving a Home Care Package or Short-Term Restorative Care will move to the Support at Home program automatically from 1 November 2025. Their existing services and funding will carry over, so there’s no disruption to care. Going forward, any changes to their support will be easier to action, with faster updates based on evolving needs.
Accessing the Program
Barbara, a 78-year-old Mandurah resident, is currently receiving a Level 2 Home Care Package. As her health needs increase, her services will be adjusted under the new Support at Home program without needing to wait for reassessment. Her personalised care plan will evolve with her needs, like personal care and transport, keeping her safe and independent at home. Should Barbara’s level of care increase, she may also be referred under Support at Home to one of the 3 short-term supports:
- Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme to provide upfront access to equipment, products and home modifications to support older people to safely and independently live in their own home.
- Restorative Care Pathway to help people to maintain and improve independence, delay the reliance on ongoing services and continue to do the things they enjoy.
- End-of-Life Pathway to access additional services in the last 3 months of life so people can remain at home if this is their preference.
How a Simplified System Helps Older Australians
By consolidating multiple programs into a single system, the Support at Home program reduces complexity and administrative burdens for older Australians and their families. This streamlined approach facilitates easier navigation of aged care services and ensures that support is more readily accessible when needed.
Types of Support Available Under the Support at Home Program
Clinical Care
- Nursing care
- Allied health
- Nutrition
- Care management
- Restorative care management.
Access to services like physiotherapy, podiatry, occupational therapy and nursing support is provided to help older Australians stay active, manage chronic conditions and recover from injuries without unnecessary hospital visits.
Independence
- Personal care
- Social support and community engagement
- Therapeutic services
- Respite
- Transport
- Assistive technology
Older people will have assistance with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing and meal preparation, helping residents maintain their independence and dignity. The program also provides access to mobility aids, personal alarms and smart home devices, helping people stay safe and connected.
Everyday Living
- Domestic assistance
- Home maintenance and repairs
- Meals
- Home modifications
To help older Australians stay safe at home, the program offers support with essential modifications like ramps, grab rails and handrails. It also includes general maintenance services, making sure homes remain comfortable, accessible and suited to changing mobility needs.
How Tailored Services Improve Quality of Life
Tailored support means older Australians can receive care that aligns with how they live and how their needs shift over time. The Support at Home program is built with this flexibility in mind, making it easier for residents to remain comfortable, independent and well-supported in their own homes.
Preparing for the Transition: What Seniors and Families Need to Know
Key Steps to Take Before November 2025
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with information about the Support at Home program through official channels.
- Review Current Care Plans: Assess existing services to determine if they align with future needs.
- Consult with Providers: Engage with care providers to understand how the transition will affect individual care arrangements.
How to Choose the Right Support Services
Choosing the right services starts with understanding your current needs and anticipating how they may change over time. Look for a provider that offers flexible care options, communicates clearly and is willing to adjust support as those needs evolve.
It’s also important to feel heard and respected, knowing your provider will respond quickly if something isn’t working. A good fit means feeling confident that you or your loved one will continue to receive consistent, high-quality care through every stage of ageing.
Why Being Informed is Essential
Understanding the upcoming changes ensures that older Australians and their families can make proactive decisions about care, leading to smoother transitions and better outcomes in maintaining independence and quality of life.
A New Approach to Home Care Services in Australia
As we look ahead to November 2025, the move from the current home care packages system to the Support at Home program signals a meaningful change in aged care. With a focus on flexibility, responsiveness and person-centred support, this new approach will simplify services and ensure older Australians receive care that truly reflects their needs, helping them live independently and with dignity at home.
For more information, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care or the My Aged Care website.
At Coolibah Care, we can assist you or your loved one with preparing for the transition to the Support at Home program. Enquire today and see how we can help.