Home / Retiree / Later life planning / Need care at home? We look at where to find it and what it costs

Need care at home? We look at where to find it and what it costs

It’s most people’s preference to age gracefully in their own home and that’s certainly something to aim for.

If it’s just a few basic things you need help with, then family, friends and the local community can often be the first port of call. While getting assistance from your nearest and dearest is the cheapest option, it can’t always be relied on, especially over the long term.

So, what are the alternatives? It could be time to explore government-subsidised in-home care.

Good to know: In-home care reforms

From 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program will replace the existing Home Care Packages program. Entry level home care through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP – not to be confused with the Support at Home program, more on the differences later in this article) will transition to the new program no earlier than 1 July 2027.

From 1 July 2024 there is a single assessment system for the existing home care programs. The aim of this is to simplify and improve access to aged care services.

Support at Home packages – what are they?

A Support at Home package is a coordinated package of services delivered using a budget allocated to an individual, which is tailored to meet a person’s more complex care needs.

This is a members-only guide – but unlock 100+ guides now with a free account

Create a free SuperGuide account today to learn strategies for making your super last, boosting retirement income and maximising Age Pension entitlements – all from independent experts.

Join now

About the author

Related topics,

IMPORTANT: All information on SuperGuide is general in nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether any information on SuperGuide is appropriate to you before acting on it. If SuperGuide refers to a financial product you should obtain the relevant product disclosure statement (PDS) or seek personal financial advice before making any investment decisions. Comments provided by readers that may include information relating to tax, superannuation or other rules cannot be relied upon as advice. SuperGuide does not verify the information provided within comments from readers. Learn more

© Copyright SuperGuide 2008-25. Copyright for this guide belongs to SuperGuide Pty Ltd, and cannot be reproduced without express and specific consent. Learn more

Leave a Reply