Support at Home Program Explained: Eligibility, Funding Levels and How to Apply

What is the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home is the Australian Government’s single system for providing funded aged care services to help older adults continue living independently in their own homes. On 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program replaces the two programs that previously funded in-home care and will consolidate most in-home care funding into one place.

In contrast to receiving direct financial assistance, older Australians will be assessed, assigned a provider and allocated a quarterly budget for the use of approved services. The contribution toward the cost of the services is dependent on the individual’s income level and the services received.

What programs did Support at Home replace?

There were three programs that previously covered in-home care:

Program	Status
Home Care Packages (HCP)	Replaced by Support at Home from 1 November 2025
Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC)	Replaced by Support at Home from 1 November 2025
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)	Continues until at least 1 July 2027

The HCP was primarily for older adults with moderate to high care needs, with four levels of funding. The STRC provided short-term recovery support after a health incident. Both are now part of the Support at Home program. The CHSP, which covers lower-level occasional support (such as meal delivery, transportation, light housekeeping) continues as a separate program until at least mid-2027.

Who is eligible for Support at Home?

To meet Support at Home eligibility requirements, applicants must meet the following three requirements:

1. Be 65 years old or older. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the minimum age for eligibility is 50 years.
2. Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold a protected Special Category Visa;
3. Have an assessed care need confirmed through a free government assessment via My Aged Care.

It is essential to note that meeting the above three requirements alone does not automatically guarantee eligibility. An assessor must also identify that the applicant has a legitimate care need that the Support at Home program is designed to address. For example, many 70 year olds do not have any care needs.

What services does Support at Home cover?

Support at Home covers a broader range of aged care services than most people expect. It considers a wide range of factors that make it possible for an individual to stay safely in their own home.

Domestic Assistance includes cleaning, laundry, ironing, meal preparation, shopping assistance, home and garden maintenance and personal care (including bathing, dressing, grooming and continence support).

Clinical and Allied Health Services include:

• Nursing care (wound management, medication support, catheter care, and chronic condition management)
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Speech Pathology
• Podiatry
• Dietetics

Important to note is that participants do not contribute financially to clinical services. Clinical and allied health services are fully funded by the government. For participants with significant health issues, this can result in a substantial reduction in out of pocket costs.

Social and Cultural Support includes assisting participants to access community and social activities, social groups and culturally relevant connections. This includes supporting Indigenous Australians to access Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals and to engage in cultural activities. Social isolation is a major health issue for older individuals who live alone. Recognising the importance of addressing social isolation, the program includes social support as well as financial support to enable participation in community and social activities.

What’s not covered?

Rent, utility bills, grocery purchases (although shopping assistance and meal preparation are included in the program), medical supplies, medications, medical procedures already funded by Medicare or the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, vacations/holidays, entertainment and general home renovations.

There is a separate funding pool for home modifications necessary to ensure an individual’s safety (see below). A useful rule of thumb is: If it is a general living expense that anyone of any age would incur, then it is likely to be outside the program.

Support at Home funding levels explained: Classifications 1–8

How the Support at Home classification system works

In contrast to the former HCP with its four funding levels, Support at Home has eight funding levels. Support at Home funding level is determined by an assessment using the Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT), which assesses applicant’s physical functioning, health conditions, cognitive status, social situation and home environment.

Unlike the previous HCP funding system, Support at Home funding is paid quarterly, rather than as one large amount per year. The Government pays providers directly. Participants contribute based on their income and service received. Ten percent of their quarterly budget will automatically go to their provider’s care management account to cover coordination costs. This leaves 90% of their quarterly budget available for their active service budget.

Support at Home funding levels: classification comparison table

Classification	Annual budget (approx.)	Quarterly budget (approx.)	Approx. weekly hours	Previous HCP equivalent
1	$11,000	$2,750	2–3 hrs	Level 1
2	$18,900	$4,725	4–5 hrs	Level 1–2
3	$29,500	$7,375	6–8 hrs	Level 2
4	$39,600	$9,900	8–11 hrs	Level 2–3
5	$48,900	$12,225	11–14 hrs	Level 3
6	$57,400	$14,350	13–16 hrs	Level 3–4
7	$68,000	$17,000	16–20 hrs	Level 4
8	$78,100	$19,525	20–25 hrs	Level 4

Support at Home funding levels: Classifications 1–8 and approximate weekly care hours.

Please note that the estimated weekly hours shown for each classification are indicative only. The actual hours of service provided will depend on the service mix, the cost charged by the provider for each service. Participants who have transitioned from an HCP will be placed in “Transitioned HCP” classifications (Levels 1–4) which reflect their previous funding allocation. New participants will undergo assessment through the standard 8-classification structure.

Support at Home budget rollover rules

Unused funds at the end of each quarter do not carry forward. Unused funds may only be carried forward up to a maximum of 10% of the quarterly funding amount or $1,000 (whichever is greater).

For example, David was classified as a Classification 5 and received a quarterly funding of $12,225. David spent $10,000, resulting in $2,225 remaining unused. David’s unused carry forward cap is $1,222.50 (10% of $12,225). David retains $1,222.50. David loses $1,002.50.

You should review your care plan at the end of each quarter to ensure that you are not consistently spending less than expected. If you are consistently spending less than expected, you are likely losing money. Your Care Partner should inform you if this is occurring. If your Care Partner does not inform you of this issue, you should raise it with them.

The 3 Support at Home short-term pathways

There are 3 separate funding streams that don’t draw from your ongoing quarterly budget. These include:

Assistive Technology and Home Modification (AT-HM) Scheme

The AT-HM Scheme is used to fund technology and home modification equipment to increase a person’s safety and accessibility at home. Examples of items that can be funded through this scheme include grab bars, ramps, shower chairs, stairlifts and bathroom modifications. The cost of the item, including any assessments and installation and training associated with the use of the item will be covered.

Funds available through this scheme are limited to 12 months. Any unused funds within this timeframe will not carry over. An additional assessment will be required to access this funding, regardless of whether you currently receive other services.

Restorative Care Pathway

The Restorative Care Pathway is a short-term intensive funding option to provide individuals with allied health and nursing support to recover function lost due to a health related incident (such as surgery, a fall, or a hospitalisation). The purpose of this pathway is to allow individuals to regain lost function in a timely manner. The duration of time for which funding is available is limited. Upon completion of the restorative period, the individual will need to undergo another assessment to determine the extent of ongoing support required.

End-of-Life Pathway

The End-of-Life Pathway provides additional funding to support individuals in their final three months of life to remain at home. Access to the End-of-Life Pathway can occur through a priority-assessed application for both individuals who are new to the Support at Home program and for current Support at Home participants.

How much does Support at Home cost?

The government funds the bulk of your services. Participants’ contribution is based on their financial situation and what service they receive.

How Support at Home contribution rates are calculated

Services Australia assesses both the income and assets of a participant. The amount participants contribute toward the costs of their personal and domestic support services is a percentage of the hourly rate of service provision.

Full Pensioners contribute the least, while Self-Funded Retirees who have considerable assets contribute the most. Contributions for goods and consumables are calculated as a percentage of the cost of each individual item.

There is no participant contribution for clinical services such as nursing, physiotherapy and other Allied Health Services. You only pay for services actually delivered — no charges for periods where nothing was provided.

The “No Worse Off” principle for existing HCP recipients

For participants that were eligible for an HCP prior to 12 September 2024, the contributions cannot be increased due to the transition. This protection applies automatically. If the costs have increased since the transition, participants can contact their Service Provider and then if necessary, contact My Aged Care.

Capped pricing from July 2026

Currently, Providers charge their own rates. From July 2026, the Government will introduce maximum prices for the majority of services. The maximum prices will be determined by the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority. This should provide greater value for money for those self-funded retirees who currently contribute significantly more.
Specific price caps had not been established at the time of writing. Please check the Department of Health and Aged Care website for updates.

How to apply for Support at Home: a step-by-step guide

Step 1 – Register with My Aged Care. Call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au. Have your Medicare card handy. If registering on behalf of someone else, ask about setting up formal representative access at the same time.

Step 2 – Undertake an Assessment. My Aged Care will arrange a free aged care assessment through the Single Assessment System using the Integrated Assessment Tool. Please answer honestly regarding the challenges you are experiencing. Downplaying your difficulties is a frequent reason why people are assessed as being less severely affected than they truly are. Once you have completed your assessment, you will be allocated a Priority Rating. This rating determines the wait time, but not whether you qualify.

Step 3 – Receive your Approval Letter. Your Notice of Decision Letter will confirm your Classification, the care services approved and Priority Rating. In cases where there is a wait for funding, you may be offered an interim allocation (A lower level of care which begins sooner).

Step 4 – Select a Provider. As part of Support at Home, you will work with a Registered Provider to develop and manage your full Care Plan. To find a Provider in your area, use the postcode search function on myagedcare.gov.au. Prior to signing any agreements, please ask your Provider about Hourly Rates, what the Care Management Fee includes and how they manage changes to your Schedule. Ensure you read the Care Agreement thoroughly before committing.

Step 5 – Commence Receiving Services and Manage your Budget. You should regularly request Statements. Establish a rapport with your Care Partner early. They should be reviewing your Care Plan and raising any concerns. If your Care Partner is not across your situation, that’s a sign to ask questions or reconsider your provider.

Already on a Home Care Package? What the transition means for you

Automatic transition to Support at Home

On 1 November 2025, all HCP recipients will be transitioned to Support at Home without having to re-apply, being reassessed or experiencing a gap in their support. The funding levels for each HCP will be matched by the automatic transition to a Transition HCP classification, with the unspent HCP balances able to be used for Support at Home services, including AT-HM.

People approved for an HCP on or after 12 September 2024 will transition under the new standard classification system, not the protected Transitioned HCP pathway. If you’re unsure which category applies, ask your provider or call My Aged Care.

A guide for family members managing the Support at Home transition

Review the transition letter you have received and understand it. Check if your provider has given an updated version of the care plan. Look for signs that the current classification is too low. i.e. the support worker doesn’t have enough time, the family member is covering some of the gaps, the person has experienced a major health episode since the last assessment.
If any of these apply, request a reassessment. If you’re listed as a representative on the My Aged Care record, you can act on their behalf. If you’re not formally listed, get that sorted now rather than in a moment of crisis.

For CHSP recipients

Nothing has changed at this point. The CHSP will remain a separate program from Support at Home until at least July 2027. If you believe the required support exceeds those met through the CHSP, it would be beneficial to submit a Support at Home application. The two programs operate separately and you do not have to wait for the formal CHSP transition.

Common Support at Home misconceptions

Misconception 1: “I have to reapply if I was on a Home Care Package (HCP).”

No. Existing Home Care Package (HCP) recipients were automatically transitioned. If you’ve been waiting because you assumed you needed to do something, call My Aged Care and check your status.

Misconception 2: “I can use my budget for anything.”

There is an approved Service List. Items such as groceries, rental payments, utility bills, holidays and Medicare covered items are all excluded. Misuse of funds may result in claw-back. If you are unsure about a purchase, please consult your Provider prior to making payment.

Misconception 3: “Unspent funds roll over indefinitely.”

No, they do not. Unused funds have a maximum rollover cap of either 10% of your quarterly budget or $1000, whichever is greater. The ability to allow unused funds to build up as they did under your Home Care Package does not exist under Support at Home.

Misconception 4: “Support at Home will pay for my aged care facility.”

No. The program is only for individuals living in their own private home. Residential aged care is a separate program with its own funding and assessment process.

Misconception 5: “I’ll pay more than I did under my old Home Care Package (HCP).”

The “no worse off” principle will protect your contribution rates as an existing recipient. If your fees have increased and you were on a Home Care Package (HCP) before 12 September 2024, please contact your Service Provider.

Frequently asked questions

When did Support at Home start?
Support at Home officially began on 1 November 2025. It replaces both the HCP and STRC programs as of that date. The CHSP will continue separately until at least July 2027.

How long does it take to get approved?

There are two wait times to consider. Most people confuse the two.

The first is the wait for your assessment. This typically takes a few weeks after registration (faster if the application is marked as “urgent”).

The second is the wait for funding to be made available to you once you have been assessed and approved. Funding availability will vary depending upon your priority rating, from days for urgent cases to longer for standard-priority applicants.

Can I change my Support at Home provider?

Yes, at any time. Give written notice per your care agreement (typically two to four weeks), choose a new Support at Home provider and My Aged Care coordinates the funding transfer. Confirm what happens to any unspent funds before the changeover date.

What happens if my care needs increase?

Request a reassessment through My Aged Care at any time. The strongest cases are supported by clinical documentation from your GP, specialists, or Care Partners.

Can I self-manage my Support at Home budget?

Not directly. You work through a single registered provider rather than receiving funds yourself (unlike the NDIS). You do have genuine input into how your budget is spent. Some providers offer more flexible, lower-overhead models.

Is Support at Home means-tested?

Access to the Support at Home program is not income tested. Eligibility is based upon your age and assessed level of need. Your Contribution Rate is income tested by Services Australia. All Clinical Services are exempted from contributions.

What if I have a complaint about my provider?

If you experience dissatisfaction with your Support at Home provider, the initial step should always be to attempt resolution with the provider in writing. If the issue remains unresolved, contact the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (1800 951 822) or the Older Persons Advocacy Network (1800 700 600) for free, independent advocacy. If you believe there has been serious neglect or a safety risk involved, please contact the Commission immediately.

Next steps: how to get started with Support at Home today

To begin the Support at Home process today, simply register with My Aged Care to begin the process. The assessment process will work out what is needed. Many people delay registering until they feel confident that they completely understand the system. Unfortunately, this often results in delays in obtaining necessary support.

Quick Reference Checklist:

1. Register – Call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au. Set up Representative Access if you are acting for someone else.
2. Complete your Assessment – Be Honest Regarding Difficulties. Understating your difficulties is the most common reason why individuals receive a lower classification than they require.
3. Wait for your Approval Letter – Follow-up if you do not receive your Approval Letter within a couple of weeks. Accept an interim allocation if one is offered.
4. Research & Choose a Provider – Short-list two or three Providers. Ask direct questions regarding rates and Care Management prior to signing.
5. Begin Services & Review Regularly – Request Quarterly Statements. Schedule a Care Review within the First 60 to 90 Days.

Helpful Contacts:

• My Aged Care: 1800 200 422 (Monday – Friday, 8am – 8pm; Saturday, 10am – 2pm)
• Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission: 1800 951 822
• Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN): 1800 700 600
• Services Australia (Income Assessment): 1800 227 475