Introduction
The Support at Home Program is a transformative step forward in the Australian Government’s commitment to improving the aged care system. Designed to replace the Home Care Package Program and the Short-Term Restorative Care Program, this new program, as the australian government releases, aims to deliver more tailored, flexible, and high quality care to older Australians living at home. It is part of a broader reform movement introduced under the new Aged Care Act, which is aligned with the goals of the aged care act., which reflects the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
What Is the Support at Home Program?
The Support at Home Program is a major reform designed to reshape the future of aged care in Australia. It serves as a unified and simplified approach to delivering essential home services in home aged care directly to older people. in their homes. Instead of navigating multiple disconnected systems, older Australians will now be able to access services through a single, streamlined model that offers tailored support to help them remain independent, safe, and connected to their communities.
Set to launch on 1 July 2025, this new program is being rolled out by the Australian Government in alignment with the australian government’s commitment. as part of its broader commitment to modernise and humanise the aged care sector through government funding . It replaces existing programs such as the Home Care Package Program and the Short-Term Restorative Care Program, both of which have been criticised for being overly complex and failing to meet the diverse and evolving needs of seniors.
Eventually, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), which currently delivers entry-level support services to a large number of older people, will also be rolled into this program by 1 July 2027. This full consolidation will help reduce duplication, eliminate confusion, and provide better consistency in service delivery and funding.
By integrating services and introducing a single assessment system, the support at home Program aims to ensure that older Australians receive the right support, at the right time, and in the way that suits them best. This is not only a logistical improvement but also a deeply personal shift toward placing the individual’s needs and lifestyle choices at the centre of aged care policy.
A Simpler, Fairer System for All
Unlike the existing fragmented framework, the new home funding model will offer greater clarity around what services are available, how they are delivered, and who pays for what. This means fewer administrative headaches and better outcomes for older Australians and their families as they have access to essential home modifications. .
Service types will be aligned with a defined service list, and price caps will help regulate costs so that everyone, regardless of income level, can access fair and high quality care. Through this more consistent model, users will benefit from improved transparency, fewer delays, and easier decision-making.
From Complexity to Clarity
Under the previous structure, older people often faced delays due to limited coordination between programs. In contrast, the Support at Home Program is designed to cut through that complexity by consolidating eligibility assessments and funding allocation into a central system—creating a more cohesive and efficient experience.
This new approach puts an emphasis on preventative care, early intervention, and restorative care pathways, reducing the long-term reliance on residential aged care. Whether it’s arranging domestic assistance, acquiring assistive technology, or supporting end of life care, the new program makes it easier to get timely, effective, and tailored support all in one place.
Why Replace the Existing Programs?
The aged care sector has long been burdened by complex pathways, inconsistent service delivery, and inadequate access to everyday living services. The new support model aims to streamline the journey by offering:
- Improved access to clinical care and allied health services
- Standardised home funding model and price caps
- Flexibility in choosing aged care providers
- A shift from existing quarterly budget annual plans to an integrated classification quarterly budget annual structure
The existing aged care programs—the Home Care Package Program, the Short-Term Restorative Care Program, and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme—were built over time to respond to different needs, but they lacked integration. This led to inefficiencies, duplicated aged care services, and confusion among older Australians trying to navigate their options. The Support at Home Program is a solution that brings much-needed coherence and consistency to the aged care system.
By consolidating programs into one unified model, the Australian Government is aiming for a more efficient, flexible, and responsive approach that ensures no one is left behind.
Addressing Fragmentation in the Aged Care Sector
Under the old model, aged care services recipients had to deal with separate funding pools, inconsistent eligibility criteria, and varying standards of care. These silos made it difficult for seniors and their families to make informed decisions. The Support at Home Program breaks down these barriers, allowing a smoother, more streamlined journey from assessment to home contribution arrangements and service delivery.
This integrated approach ensures that people don’t fall through the cracks. Whether you require basic daily living assistance or complex clinical care, the program ensures that your needs are assessed holistically and met consistently.
A New Era of Accountability and Quality
One of the main concerns raised by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety (Royal Commissions) was the lack of oversight and accountability in the previous programs. The new support model changes that by introducing stronger governance, clearer price caps, and more transparent funding through the classification quarterly budget annual approach.
Additionally, the program offers a structured framework for aged care providers to deliver high-quality, personalised care without the inconsistencies that plagued earlier systems. This is a step toward a more equitable aged care environment, where quality, accessibility, and care services are at the forefront of every service delivered.
Program Aims and Philosophy
The Support at Home Program is built upon a vision that older Australians should be empowered to live independently, safely, and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. This new program represents a shift from institutionalised models of care to one that values individual choice, community connection, and preventative support.
It goes far beyond delivering basic care services; it’s about recognising the uniqueness of every person and providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in familiar environments. At its core, the program is guided by a commitment to uphold dignity, autonomy, and inclusion for all participants.
Promoting Dignity Through Personalisation
Every person’s journey through aged care is different, and the Support at Home Program acknowledges this by placing personal choice and control at the centre of its design. From the initial single assessment system to the co-design of individual support plans, the program enables participants to be active decision-makers in their care.
Older Australians will no longer be subjected to one-size-fits-all models. Instead, their care packages will reflect their unique circumstances, allowing them to enjoy life with a greater sense of security and self-determination. Whether it’s through restorative care pathways, assistive technology, or end of life care, home services will be customised, compassionate, and culturally appropriate.
Empowering Healthy Ageing and Connection
The Support at Home approach places emphasis not just on clinical and physical needs, but on holistic wellbeing. It prioritises national priority system services that enhance everyday living, from access to social outings and transport via rideshare service vouchers, to nutritional support, mental health services, and community engagement.
By focusing on what matters most to individuals—staying in their homes, keeping in touch with loved ones, and continuing their preferred routines—the program fosters a better quality of life and minimises unnecessary transitions to residential aged care.
In this way, the Support at Home Program isn’t just about support. It’s about creating an environment where older Australians feel heard, valued, and empowered to lead meaningful lives on their own terms when the home program begins .
Key Features of the Support at Home Program
Defined Service List and Transparency
One of the central reforms is the creation of a defined service list, ensuring consistency across providers and empowering clients to better understand their entitlements.
Personalised Care and Quarterly Budgets
Support will be tailored based on individual assessments and a quarterly budget annual amount, aligned with your unique health goals and lifestyle.
Modernisation of Assistive Services
Thanks to the introduction of the home modifications scheme and better access to assistive technology, seniors will be able to maintain independence with the right in home care tools in place.
Clinical and Allied Health Services
The Support at Home model includes provisions for:
- Clinical care
- Allied health services
- Other therapeutic services such as mental health support and wellness programs
Transition from Existing Home Care Packages
What Happens to Current Aged Care Recipients?
If you’re already receiving support through the Home Care Package Program, there’s no need to worry. Your approved home care package will be migrated automatically into the new system. Your care will continue uninterrupted.
Benefits to Aged Care Recipients
Improved Access and Flexibility
The new model enhances choice and control for aged care recipients through:
- Streamlined service options
- Standardised administration costs
- Options to pay contributions based on income tested care fee and basic daily fee criteria
Easier Budgeting and Transparency
You’ll receive an easy-to-understand quarterly budget, ensuring full clarity on your spending and service allocations.
End of Life Pathway
For those approaching their final stages, the end of life pathway provides sensitive and dignified support in your own home.
Replacing the Commonwealth Home Support Program
Phased Transition
While the Commonwealth Home Support Program will remain in place for now, plans to merge it into the new program are set for 2027. This will unify funding structures and improve continuity of care across Australia.
How to Access the Support at Home Program
Eligibility Criteria
You may be eligible if you are:
- 65 years or older (50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)
- A self funded retiree or someone relying on a health card status
- Needing support with everyday living, mobility, or medical conditions
Assessment and Entry
To apply:
- Visit the Aged Care Website (myagedcare.gov.au)
- Register and undergo an ACAT assessment
- Receive an approval decision with your assigned national priority system score
Roles of Aged Care Providers
The success of the Support at Home Program hinges on the active participation and commitment of aged care providers across the country. These providers operating are not only responsible for delivering support and services but also ensuring that they uphold the values of transparency, quality, and dignity at the heart of the new aged care act.
Who Delivers the Services?
Only approved aged care providers registered with the Australian Government will be authorised to operate under the new program. These providers will play a central role in shaping the everyday experiences of older Australians living at home.
To maintain high standards of care, providers must:
- Adhere to regulated home funding classifications
- Work within nationally established price caps and not exceed their own prices
- Accept same contributions rules for fairness across the system
- Maintain transparent and detailed reporting of services delivered, budgets, and outcomes
Ensuring High Quality Care
Providers are expected to align with the core goals of the program, including person-centred care, cultural inclusivity, and flexibility in service provision. This means respecting a person’s goals, preferences, and lifestyle when delivering everything from domestic assistance and clinical care to home modifications and other therapeutic services.
The new support framework also requires providers to be agile and responsive. As people’s care needs evolve—due to health changes, mobility, or social circumstances—providers must be equipped to adjust care plans and facilitate access to appropriate everyday living services, assistive technology, and restorative care options.
Transparent Service Delivery and Accountability
Gone are the days of vague pricing and hidden administrative costs. Under the Support at Home Program, providers must clearly document and justify their expenses, allowing clients and their medication continence management families to make informed decisions.
This transparency is not just about dollars—it’s also about trust. The public has demanded higher standards from the aged care sector, and this new model is a direct response to that call. Providers must now operate with the understanding that every decision they make can impact not only their compliance status but also the wellbeing of the aged care services people they serve..
In this evolving landscape, the role of providers is both a privilege and a responsibility—one that demands compassion, competence, and a shared commitment to delivering consistent, high quality aged care support.
How Re.Connect Support Services Makes It Easier
We’re Here to Guide You
At Re.Connect, we specialise in delivering support at home through:
- Tailored care planning
- Help navigating the aged care bill and funding eligibility
- Matching you with experienced aged care workers
Helping You Stay at Home Longer
Our goal is to keep you out of residential aged care by offering support at home options that ensure :
- Preventative restorative care
- Safe home modifications
- Everyday living services that promote independence
Transport and Community Access
We assist with:
- Rideshare service vouchers
- Shopping and medical appointment transport
- Social activity participation
Tackling Common Misconceptions
“Will I Lose My Services?” No. Existing services under your home care package will continue through the transition.
“Will It Cost More?” Fees are means-tested. Those with higher income may pay more, while concessions apply for pensioners and those on a health card.
“Is It Too Complicated?” Not with Re.Connect. We’re with you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts: Delivering Support That Matters
The Support at Home Program is a bold yet thoughtful transformation of the aged care support landscape. It addresses long-standing issues in the aged care sector and puts the individual at the centre of service delivery.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore home services or are already receiving in home aged care, the new support structure ensures flexibility, personalisation, and dignity.
Let Re.Connect Support Services help you or your loved one experience aged care the way it should be—respectful, empowering, and reliable.
Contact Re.Connect Support Services today to get started on your journey toward confident, comfortable living at home.
