Support at Home
The Future of Home Assist
Starting 1 November 2025, the Australian Government will introduce Support at Home — a new program designed to help older Australians live safely, independently, and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible.
This updated approach to in-home care aims to streamline and simplify support services, ensuring people receive the right help, at the right time, in a way that better suits their individual needs.
Over time, Support at Home will replace several existing aged care programs, including:
- Home Care Packages (HCP)
- Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC)
- And eventually, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
At Home Assist Community Services Maryborough, we’re committed to keeping our local community informed and supported throughout this transition. As a trusted provider of aged care support in the Fraser Coast region, our team will continue to help clients navigate the changing system and make the most of the services available to them.
We’ll be sharing more information in the coming months as further details are released by the Government. In the meantime, if you have any questions or would like help understanding what these changes could mean for you or a loved one, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Home Assist team.
How Does it Work?
- Get Assessed
- If you’re 65+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), you can apply for a free aged care assessment.
- Receive a Personal Care Plan
- You’ll get a support plan and a budget that outlines what help you’re eligible for – from cleaning and shopping to nursing and physiotherapy.
- Choose Your Provider
- Pick a trusted provider to manage your care – or choose to self-manage if you prefer more control.
Key Benefits for You
- More Help at Home: More funding per year for support, depending on your needs.
- Faster Access: You won’t have to wait as long to get services.
- Tailored Care: You’ll get a care plan that matches your personal situation.
- Easy Equipment Access: Get support for things like walking frames or home rails straight away.
- Help at Life’s End: increased funds to help you stay at home if you have a terminal illness and prefer to pass away there with dignity.
Already on a home care package?
From 1 November 2025, you’ll automatically move to the new Support at Home program — no need to reapply.
- You’ll keep the same level of support
- You won’t pay more – the government’s “no worse off” promise means you’ll pay the same or less
- Your unspent funds will carry over
- You’ll get a new care plan with a clear budget and services tailored to your needs
- Your provider will guide you through the change
If you’re waiting for a package, you’ll get Support at Home funding when it becomes available – at the same level you were approved for.
Want to know more? Feel free to contact Home Assist Community Services Maryborough for local guidance and support, or visit the official Government website at www.health.gov.au for the latest updates on the Support at Home program.