Community care access in Australia is more than a service—it’s a lifeline for clients, older people, people with disability, and individuals experiencing illness or homelessness. At Re.Connect Support Services, our approach is based on community needs, specialising in helping people maintain independence, navigate aged care services, and connect with the right support at the right location.
Whether you’re looking into the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), exploring referral pathways, or simply trying to understand your eligibility details , this guide is your starting point.
What Is Community Care Access and Why Does It Matter?
Community care access refers to the process of identifying, referring, and connecting individuals and patients to relevant home and community care services. These programs help older people, patients, and those living with a health condition or illness continue to live independently at home.
This can include home care, allied health support, social inclusion services, personal care, occupational therapists, and tailored home program options for meal preparation, transportation, and more. The aim? To prevent risk of hospitalisation, reduce long-term costs, and enhance quality of life.
Why Community Care Services Are Vital for Australian Communities
Community care services play a vital role in supporting older people within Australian communities. These services offer older individuals the opportunity to maintain their independence, receive tailored support, and stay connected with their local community. By providing access to essential resources and assistance, community care helps ensure that older people can continue to live fulfilling lives in familiar surroundings.
Supporting Older People Through Local Community Care
As Australians age, their support needs evolve. Many prefer to maintain autonomy, live at home, and remain part of their local community. That’s where community care services come in. Local service providers play a crucial role in delivering these services and supporting older people to remain independent. According to the Department of Health, more than 840,000 people use the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) annually—making it the largest funded entry point into the national aged care system.
Preventing Isolation with Accessible Community Care
Beyond physical assistance, community care programs reduce the risk of social isolation, one of the leading contributors to mental and physical decline in older people. With the right support, clients can stay connected to their carers, neighbours, and health professionals.
Understanding the Commonwealth Home Support Programme
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) provides entry-level support services to those who are eligible, including:
- Domestic assistance
- Personal care
- Allied health (e.g., occupational therapists)
- Meals and nutrition
- Social support
- Transport services
- Home maintenance and modifications
To access these services, individuals need to apply for an assessment to determine their eligibility for the program.
Who Is Eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme?
You may be eligible for CHSP if you meet the necessary criteria for an assessment :
- You are aged 65 or over (50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people)
- You need assistance to remain living at home
- You are facing inability to perform daily tasks due to illness, injury, or age
- You are experiencing homeless conditions or at risk of becoming homeless
To help determine your eligibility, consider answering a few specific questions about your situation.
A formal assessment through My Aged Care is required. If you’re unsure about eligibility, Re.Connect can help guide you through the referral and assessment process.
How Re.Connect Simplifies Community Care Access
At Re.Connect, we provide compassionate navigation through the complexities of aged care services and home care systems. Our team connects clients with suitable services, provides ongoing coordination, and assists with vital support :
- Referrals and eligibility checks
- Understanding fees and costs
- Locating trusted local providers
- Putting the right care arrangements in place or supplementing current arrangements
- Ongoing monitoring to ensure the right care is received
As an organisation, we go beyond tick-box solutions—we build relationships and trust. Every person is unique, and so is our approach.
Why Re.Connect Is a Trusted Partner in Aged Care Services
Choosing Re.Connect means you can choose a team that listens. Whether you’re a carer seeking better options for a loved one, or a client managing a new diagnosis or change in circumstance, we ensure your home program works for you.
What Makes Our Home Program Unique?
End-to-End Coordination: From first referral to ongoing support
Person-Centred Care: No one-size-fits-all plans
Access to Allied Health Experts: Including occupational therapists, nurses, and more
Responsive Team: Call, email or phone us for quick answers
Support for Vulnerable Populations: Including individuals experiencing homelessness
Unique Home Program: We understand that it can be difficult to assess whether a new team member or care arrangement is the right fit, and our program is designed to support you through this challenging process.
Breaking Down the Costs of Home Care and Government-Funded Services
CHSP and other aged care programs are funded by the Australian Government. However, a small contribution may be required depending on your income. Re.Connect helps explain all fees, costs, and receipts, so there are no surprises.
We’ll also ensure that you’re not paying for services you don’t need—and that your support package adapts as your life changes.
How to Get Started with Your Home Program
To get started with your home program, follow these simple steps:
- Contact your local provider to discuss your needs.
- Schedule an assessment to determine eligibility.
- Review the available services and select the ones that best suit your situation.
- Finalize your care plan and begin receiving support.
Take the time to learn more about each step involved in accessing community care to make informed decisions about your options.
Step-by-Step Path to Home Care and Community Care Access
- Contact Re.Connect – Reach out via phone or our website; we will respond within 1 business day.
- Discuss Your Needs – We’ll chat about your situation and goals, typically scheduled within 2 business days.
- Referral and Assessment – We assist in getting your eligibility confirmed, usually completed within 3 business days.
- Start Receiving Services – Your tailored home care begins, often within 5 business days after assessment.
New: Supporting Carers and Family Members
New: Collaborating with Health Professionals
New: Assessment and Care Planning
Final Thoughts: A Future Built on Better Community Care Access
Re.Connect as an organisation is more than a community care access facilitator—we’re your guide to a better, more supported life. By helping Australians navigate aged care, coordinate referrals, and understand their home program options, we’re building a healthier, more connected future with our dedicated team.
As new government initiatives are introduced, they will replace older community care and aged care services, aiming to streamline support and improve outcomes for everyone.
Whether you’re at the age of 67, caring for a parent, or just looking ahead—we’re here for you.
Ready to Take the First Step?
**Refer yourself or someone you love today.**Call our team n the provided phone number or visit Re.Connect Support Services to get started. You can also read more about family support resources in the resources section of our website.
