What is Support at Home in Australia? A Simple Guide for Families

Support at Home is Australia's reformed in-home aged care program. It is designed to help older Australians stay living safely and independently in their own homes, with government-subsidised services tailored to what each person actually needs. If you've heard the term and aren't sure what it means, here's a clear guide.

What is the Support at Home program?

Support at Home is an Australian Government program that provides funding and services to help older people remain at home rather than move into residential aged care. It brings in-home aged care together under one clearer system, replacing the older Home Care Packages program and, over time, absorbing other in-home support such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).

In simple terms: it's the main way older Australians get government-funded help at home — with cleaning, personal care, nursing, equipment, social support and more.

When did Support at Home start?

Support at Home was introduced as part of major aged care reforms following the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. It began rolling out to replace Home Care Packages, with CHSP services planned to transition across in the following period. Because reform dates and details can shift, always confirm current timing with My Aged Care or your provider.

Who is Support at Home for?

The program is generally for:

• Older Australians (usually 65 and over, or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)

• People who want to keep living at home but need some help to do so safely

• Those whose needs have increased due to ageing, illness, reduced mobility, or after a hospital stay

• People previously on a Home Care Package, who transition into the new system

What services does Support at Home cover?

Services are grouped so it's clear what your funding is for. They typically include:

• Clinical care — nursing, allied health such as physiotherapy and podiatry, and care management.

• Independence — help with personal care (showering, dressing), and support to keep doing daily activities.

• Everyday living — domestic help like cleaning and laundry, meals, transport, and social support.

• Equipment and home modifications — items and minor changes that help you stay safe and mobile at home.

How is Support at Home different from Home Care Packages?

The intent of the reform is to make in-home care simpler and fairer. Key differences families notice include:

• Clearer service categories, so you can see exactly what your funding covers

• More defined funding levels matched to your assessed needs

• Greater transparency about fees and how your contribution is worked out

• A stronger focus on restorative care — helping you regain and keep your independence

If you're already receiving a Home Care Package, you don't need to panic — reforms include arrangements so people already in care are not left worse off during the transition.

Will I have to pay for Support at Home?

The government subsidises the cost, but many people contribute towards their care. How much you pay can depend on your income and assets and the type of service. Clinical care is treated differently from everyday living services. Because individual circumstances vary, it's best to get advice specific to your situation.

How do I access Support at Home?

1. Contact My Aged Care — the government's entry point — online or by phone.

2. Have an assessment, usually in your home, to identify the support you need.

3. Receive your approval and funding classification.

4. Choose an approved provider, like CareU, to deliver and help manage your services.

A note on accuracy: aged care rules, dates, and fees can change. For the most current details, check the official My Aged Care information or speak with our team — we stay across the changes so you don't have to.

How CareU helps

CareU is an Australian home-care provider supporting older people and their families. Our multilingual team explains Support at Home in plain language, helps you plan your services, and makes sure you get the most from your funding — so you or your loved one can keep living well at home.

Have questions about Support at Home? CareU helps Australian families understand their options and get the right support at home — including help in your language. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation chat.