Australia's aged care system is undergoing its most significant transformation in decades. From July 1, 2025, the new Support at Home program will replace the existing Home Care Packages (HCP) system, bringing major changes to how older Australians access and receive care in their own homes.
Whether you're currently receiving home care, on the waiting list, or planning for future care needs, understanding these changes is essential. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Support at Home program.
What is the Support at Home Program?
The Support at Home program is the Australian Government's new aged care funding model designed to provide more flexible, responsive, and person-centred care for older Australians who want to remain living in their own homes.
The program consolidates several existing programs into one streamlined system:
- Home Care Packages (HCP) - The four-level package system
- Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) - Entry-level support services
- Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) - Recovery-focused temporary care
"The Support at Home program represents a fundamental shift from a system where people fit into predetermined packages, to one where funding is tailored to individual needs and can change as those needs evolve."
— Department of Health and Aged Care
Key Changes You Need to Know
1. New Classification System
Instead of the current four Home Care Package levels, Support at Home introduces a more nuanced classification system based on your individual care needs assessment:
| Classification | Care Needs | Approx. Annual Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Low care needs | Up to $12,000 |
| Level 2 | Low-moderate care needs | $12,000 - $22,000 |
| Level 3 | Moderate care needs | $22,000 - $35,000 |
| Level 4 | Moderate-high care needs | $35,000 - $50,000 |
| Level 5 | High care needs | $50,000 - $78,000 |
| Level 6 | Very high care needs | $78,000+ |
2. No More Waitlists
One of the most significant improvements is the elimination of long waitlists. Under the new system, once you're assessed and approved, you'll receive your funding allocation and can begin services much sooner—typically within weeks rather than months or years.
- Faster access to care when you need it
- No more interim packages while waiting
- Funding that matches your actual care needs from day one
- Ability to start services within 2-4 weeks of approval
3. Participant Contributions
The new program introduces a clearer contribution framework. Your contribution will depend on your income and assets, assessed through a standardised means test. However, there are important safeguards:
- Maximum contribution caps to protect your income
- Hardship provisions for those who can't afford contributions
- Clinical care services remain free for all participants
- No contribution required for palliative care services
Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for the Support at Home program, you must:
- Be 65 years or older (50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)
- Live in Australia and be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- Have assessed care needs that can be met at home
- Not be receiving residential aged care
How to Prepare for the Transition
If you're currently receiving home care services or anticipate needing them, here's what you can do now:
Current Home Care Package Recipients
- Review your current services - Understand what you're currently receiving and whether it meets your needs
- Keep documentation - Maintain records of your care plan, services, and any unmet needs
- Speak with your provider - Ask how they're preparing for the transition and what it means for your services
- Consider reassessment - If your needs have changed, request a reassessment before the transition
Those Not Yet Receiving Care
- Get assessed through My Aged Care - Even if you're managing now, having an assessment on record can speed up access later
- Research providers - Start looking at aged care providers in your area, including GNA Services
- Plan financially - Understand potential contribution requirements and plan accordingly
How GNA Services Can Help
At GNA Services, we're committed to supporting our clients through this transition. Our experienced aged care team can help you:
- Understand how the changes affect your current services
- Navigate the new assessment process
- Maximise your funding allocation
- Create a care plan that truly meets your needs
- Access services quickly once approved
As a registered Support at Home provider, we're ready to deliver high-quality, person-centred care under the new system. Whether you need personal care, nursing services, domestic assistance, or social support, our local teams across Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Kalgoorlie are here to help.
Contact our aged care specialists today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can answer your questions about the Support at Home program and help you understand your options.
Call us: 1300 133 633
The Bottom Line
The Support at Home program represents a positive evolution in Australia's aged care system. While change can feel overwhelming, the new system is designed to provide more responsive, flexible care that adapts to your individual needs.
The key takeaways:
- More funding levels mean better-matched support
- No more long waitlists for care
- Greater flexibility in how you use your funding
- Clinical care remains free for everyone
- Start preparing now for a smoother transition
If you have questions about how the Support at Home program will affect you or your loved ones, don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help you navigate these changes with confidence.
