Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Home Care Packages, made simple.

Home Care Packages

There are four levels of funding, each based on the level of support you need:

  • Level 1 – Basic support
  • Level 2 – Low level care
  • Level 3 – Intermediate care
  • Level 4 – High level care

A Home Care Package is government funded support designed to help older Australians live safely and independently at home. It’s flexible and built around your care needs, from cleaning and transport to nursing and personal care.

Yes, Home Care Packages can’t be used for everyday living expenses like groceries, rent, or entertainment. We’ll walk you through what’s included and excluded upfront, so there are no surprises.

Generally, anyone aged 65 or over (or 50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) who needs help with daily living may be eligible. An ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) assessment is required to confirm eligibility.

Wait times vary, but most people wait a few months,  particularly for higher level packages. We can support you with interim care options while you wait.

Absolutely. We’re flexible. You can choose your own services, or we can coordinate them for you. You stay in control, and we support you every step of the way.

The CHSP is for short term or entry level support. Home Care Packages provide more ongoing and comprehensive care. If your needs grow, moving from CHSP to a package is a natural next step, and we can guide you through it.

Your package funds are paid directly to us on a monthly basis, and we manage the budget with you. You’ll get regular statements and updates so you always know where things stand.

Unused funds roll over from month to month, building up for future needs. If you ever switch providers, your funds move with you.

It depends. The government covers most of the cost, but depending on your income, you may be asked to pay:

  • A basic daily fee (we don’t charge this)
  • An income tested fee (Services Australia decides this)

Yes. You can take what’s called “leave”, and your funding will pause during that time. Once you return, services can restart.

No problem, your care plan isn’t locked in. We check in regularly and update your services as your needs evolve. If a higher level of support is needed, we’ll help you apply for a reassessment.

Yes. If you’re not happy with your current provider, you can switch at any time. We make the process easy and handle the paperwork for you.

Your package can cover a wide range of services, including:

  • Personal care
  • Cleaning and gardening
  • Allied health and nursing
  • Transport and shopping
  • Meals
  • Equipment and home modifications

It starts with a phone call to My Aged Care (1800 200 422) or a quick online referral. Once assessed and if approved, you’ll be placed in the national queue and assigned a Home Care Package when one becomes available.

Support At Home

Support at Home is the government’s new aged care program starting 1 November 2025. It’s designed to simplify and improve in-home support by replacing the current Home Care Package and Short-Term Restorative Care programs.

Services fall into three categories:

  • Clinical Care – things like nursing or wound management.

  • Independence Support – services that help with mobility or daily function.

  • Everyday Living – tasks like cleaning, shopping, or gardening.

If you receive the full Age Pension, you’ll only contribute a small amount or nothing at all, depending on the service type.

Your contribution will vary depending on your income and assets. You may pay a moderate to higher amount for non clinical services.

Funding will be allocated in quarterly budgets. You can carry over a portion of unspent funds from one quarter to the next (up to $1,000 or 10%).

Yes. The government has set a lifetime cap on out of pocket expenses for in home care, so you won’t keep paying indefinitely.

You may be asked to contribute a portion based on your income and the types of services you access.

No. If you’re already receiving services, you’ll transition across without needing another assessment, unless your care needs have changed.

Wherever you’re at, we’re here to help you.

Whether you’ve just started looking into support or already have a Home Care Package in place, we will walk you through how it all works so you can feel confident and in control.

Senior man and woman enjoying a quiet activity at home.

Free guidance provided.

Clear, simple and stress-free.

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