Most elderly Australians want to remain in their own home for as long as possible, but getting the care they need, when they need it and at an affordable price can be difficult to navigate.
The new Support at Home program is the first step in bringing together several government-subsidised in-home care programs under one umbrella.
Starting on 1 November 2025, Support at Home replaced the Home Care Packages program and the Short-Term Restorative Care program.
Just to confuse matters, the more basic Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will transition no earlier than 1 July 2027.
Within weeks of being rolled out, Support at Home was being criticised for the increased costs to many recipients of home care.
Existing Home Care Package recipients were supposed to be ‘no worse off’ under the new rules. However, depending on the services they choose, they too can be paying more.
Where once the option to self manage a Home Care Package looked like a good way to get better value, a new way of charging for services is making this option less attractive. That’s making the cheaper but often less reliable option of CHSP look like a good value but, under the current timetable, that won’t be for long.
Need to know
The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) is an entry-level program designed to provide one or two services to frail older people who need only a small amount of assistance or support. Enough to enable them to maintain their independence, continue living safely in their homes and participate in their communities.
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