Understanding Home Care in Australia (2025)
Home care allows older Australians to receive support at home rather than moving to a residential aged care facility. Since November 2025, the Support at Home program has replaced the previous Home Care Package system. Here's how it all works.
What Changed in November 2025?
The old Home Care Package (HCP) system had four fixed levels (Level 1–4) with fixed annual budgets. The new Support at Home program is more flexible, aiming to match funding more closely to individual assessed needs rather than forcing people into fixed budget brackets. If you were already receiving a HCP, you transitioned automatically.
What Does Home Care Cover?
| Category | Services Included |
|---|---|
| Personal care | Showering, dressing, grooming, toileting assistance |
| Domestic assistance | Cleaning, laundry, meal preparation |
| Nursing care | Wound care, medication management, health monitoring |
| Allied health | Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, speech pathology |
| Social support | Companionship, community access, transport |
| Home modifications | Grab rails, ramps, shower chairs, minor modifications |
How to Access Support at Home
- Contact My Aged Care — call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au
- Register and be screened — a phone interview establishes your immediate needs
- In-home assessment — a trained assessor visits to understand your needs in detail
- Receive your approval — you're notified of your approved support level
- Choose a provider — you select your preferred home care provider
- Develop your support plan — you and your provider agree on the services you'll receive
Choosing a Home Care Provider — Key Questions
- What is your management/administration fee as a percentage of my package?
- Do I get to choose my own care workers?
- Are your workers employees or contractors?
- What happens if my regular worker is sick?
- Can I change my services as my needs change?
- How do I exit your service if I'm not satisfied?
The Management Fee Issue
Home care providers charge an administration or management fee from your package budget before spending anything on your care. These fees range from around 15% to 35%+ of your total package value. Comparing management fees between providers could unlock hundreds or even thousands of dollars more for actual care services each year.
Tip: Ask every provider for their management fee in dollars, not just as a percentage. For a larger package, even a 5% difference in management fees can mean $2,000–$3,000 more for actual care each year.
The Support at Home program details may change. Always verify current information at myagedcare.gov.au. This guide is based on information available in June 2025.
Free Senior Planning Guide
Practical guides to retirement, aged care and financial planning — straight to your inbox.