What Is the Support at Home Program in Aged Care?

The Support at Home Program Aged Care is one of the most important changes coming to Australia’s aged care system, and many families want clear, simple guidance on what it means. Understanding how the program works helps you make confident decisions about care, whether you have ageing parents, relatives, or loved ones who want to stay safe and independent at home. This guide also explains how providers such as Elka Healthcare, personalised home care services, and trusted aged care helpers can support your family through the transition.

Understanding the Support at Home Program

What Is the Support at Home Program in Aged Care?

The Support at Home Program is a government-funded aged care initiative that started on November 1, 2025. It combines multiple existing programs into a single, simplified model that is easier for older Australians and their families to navigate. The goal is simple: give people better access to flexible, timely, and quality care that supports independence, safety, and well-being while living at home.

Why the Program Was Introduced and What It Replaces

The government introduced the program to reduce confusion, improve the quality of services, and address long wait times experienced under the previous Home Care Package (HCP) system. The Support at Home Program replaces:

Home Care Packages
Short-Term Restorative Care
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
Residential respite reforms (in stages)

The program introduces more transparent funding arrangements, ensuring families understand exactly what home care support they’re entitled to and how their funding is allocated. Bringing these together helps create a more equitable system where services match needs, rather than being restricted by rigid package levels.

Key Features and Benefits of the Support at Home Program

How the Program Helps Older Australians Stay Independent

The program supports older people to live safely at home for longer, delaying or preventing early entry into residential aged care. It focuses on practical everyday supports and health services that make independent living more achievable. Key benefits include:

One assessment that covers all home support needs
Faster access to services
A single budget tied to the person, not a package level
More flexibility to update services as needs change
Greater control for families and carers in planning support

This is especially helpful for families exploring services like home care, Elka Home Care service, and local assistance, such as home care Ballarat.

Types of Services and Support Available

The Support at Home Program offers a wide range of in-home services, grouped into everyday care and health-related care.

Daily Living Support:

Cleaning and household tasks
Meal preparation and grocery shopping
Personal care such as showering and grooming
Social companionship
Transport to appointments

Health and Clinical Support:

Nursing care
Medication management
Allied health services (physio, OT, podiatry)
Mobility and rehabilitation support

Safety and Home Support:

Home modifications
Assistive equipment
Fall-prevention aids

Providers like Elka Healthcare and its team of aged care helpers deliver these services with a personalised, flexible approach.

Who Is Eligible for the Support at Home Program?

Assessment and Application Process Explained

Eligibility is based on a person’s ability to manage daily activities safely and independently. To apply, families must complete a My Aged Care assessment. Here is the typical process:

Start the referral – You can apply online or call My Aged Care. Families, GPs, or hospitals may also refer someone.
Undergo an in-home assessment – An assessor visits to learn about health, mobility, daily challenges, goals, and home environment.
Receive a personalised support plan – The plan outlines approved services and funding.
Choose a provider – Families select a care provider, such as Elka, a home care service for the aged, to deliver ongoing support.

How Funding and Packages Are Allocated

Instead of levels (like the old Home Care Packages system), the new program allocates funding based on:

Individual needs
Service recommendations from the assessment
Frequency and type of support required

The more care a person needs, the more funding that will be allocated. This ensures fair access to personalised care rather than waiting years for a specific package level.

How the Program Differs from Home Care Packages

The biggest change is that the Support at Home Program provides greater flexibility and faster access compared to Home Care Packages. Key differences include:

No more package levels – support is matched to need
Simplified budgeting – funds directly pay for services
More responsive care – services can change without long reassessments
Reduced wait times – quicker approvals for urgent needs
More transparency – easier for families to understand costs and entitlements

This shift is designed to reduce frustration and deliver more timely help.

Tips for Families Choosing the Right Aged Care Provider

When selecting an in-home aged care provider under the Support at Home Program, consider:

Is the provider registered and experienced in delivering home care services for the aged?
Do they offer transparent pricing and clear service agreements?
Can they explain how the Support at Home classification system works for your loved one?
Are they able to tailor services to your family’s needs through truly personalised home care?
Do they provide clear communication, regular plan reviews, and reliable aged care helpers?

A trusted provider like Elka Home Care supports families every step of the way. Their comprehensive Home Care Services and Aged Care Support reflect a commitment to treating every client like family, with the dignity and respect they deserve.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Support at Home Program in aged care?

The purpose is to create a simpler, fairer, and more responsive system for delivering in-home aged care. It supports older Australians to live independently, stay connected to their communities, and receive the right level of care at the right time.

Who is eligible to receive Support at Home services?

Eligibility is based on age-related decline, difficulty with daily activities, or safety concerns at home. Any older adult who needs assistance with mobility, personal care, cleaning, transport, or health services may qualify.

What types of support and assistance are included in the program?

The program includes daily living assistance, health and clinical services, mobility and rehabilitation support, home modifications, equipment, respite, and social support services. You can explore the full options at Elka Home Care services.

How can families apply for the Support at Home Program?

Families can apply by contacting My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visiting myagedcare.gov.au. After registration, an AGAS assessor will conduct a home visit to assess your loved one’s needs and determine eligibility. Once approved, you can choose a provider like Elka Home Care to deliver the services. Contact us to learn more about who is eligible for our compassionate home care services for the aged. Understanding the Support at Home Program aged care system empowers families to make confident decisions about their loved one’s future, ensuring they receive the dignity, independence, and quality care they deserve at home.