Who Can Access the Support at Home Program
The Support at Home Program is now available to help older Australians live safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible.
You may be eligible if you are:
These criteria ensure that people who need support the most, including First Nations Elders and those facing housing challenges, can access the care they deserve.
How to Apply
All applications for Support at Home are completed through the Single Assessment System, using the Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT).
During the assessment, an assessor will work with you to understand your health, lifestyle, and goals, and will recommend the right funding level and services to meet your needs.
For New Applicants
You can start your application by contacting My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.
An assessor will guide you through the process and help develop a personal Support at Home plan.
For Existing Home Care Recipients
If you already receive a Home Care Package, you have automatically transitioned to the Support at Home Program.
Your existing funds have moved with you, and your care will continue under the new quarterly budget system, without the need for reassessment unless your needs change.
Costs and Funding
Support at Home follows a shared-cost approach, meaning the Australian Government covers most care costs, while participants may contribute based on their income and financial situation.
The model includes a lifetime cap of $130,000 for non-clinical care services, covering both in-home and residential care.
Type of Service
Government Contribution
Individual Contribution
Clinical services (e.g., nursing, therapy)
100%
0%
Independence services (e.g., showering, medication support)
50–95%
5–50% (based on income)
Everyday living services (e.g., cleaning, meals, errands)
20–82.5%
17.5–80% (based on income)
Type of Service
Clinical services (e.g., nursing, therapy)
Government Contribution
100%
Individual Contribution
0%
Type of Service
Independence services (e.g., showering, medication support)
Government Contribution
50–95%
Individual Contribution
5–50% (based on income)
Type of Service
Everyday living services (e.g., cleaning, meals, errands)
Government Contribution
20–82.5%
Individual Contribution
17.5–80% (based on income)
Example of contribution ranges by income
Income Level
Full pensioners (under $32,000 single / $50,000 couple)
Clinical Services
100%
Independence Services
Around 5%
Everyday Living Services
Around 17.5%
Income Level
Part pensioners ($32,001–$60,000 single / $50,001–$90,000 couple)
Clinical Services
$0
Independence Services
5–50% (based on income)
Everyday Living Services
17.5–80% (based on assessment)
Income Level
Self-funded retirees (over $60,001 single / $90,001 couple)
Clinical Services
$0
Independence Services
50%+
Everyday Living Services
–
Income Level
Clinical Services
Independence Services
Everyday Living Services
Full pensioners (under $32,000 single / $50,000 couple)
$0
Around 5%
Around 17.5%
Part pensioners ($32,001–$60,000 single / $50,001–$90,000 couple)
$0
5–50% (based on assessment)
17.5–80% (based on assessment)
Self-funded retirees (over $60,001 single / $90,001 couple)
$0
50%+
17.5–80% (based on income)
If you were already receiving a Home Care Package, your contributions will not increase under Support at Home, ensuring continued affordability and stability.
What This Means for Current Recipients
If you were receiving a Home Care Package before November 2025, here’s what you can expect:
- Automatic Transition: You’ve moved to Support at Home without needing a new assessment (unless your needs change).
- No Increase in Costs: Your contribution rates remain the same or better.
- More Services Available: You now have access to new programs such as Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM), Restorative Care, and End-of-Life Support.
- Retained Funds: Any unspent funds have carried over and been adjusted to the new quarterly budget structure.
If you are currently receiving services through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), you will continue under that program until at least July 2027. You can apply for Support at Home at any time after that if your needs change.