What You Need to Know About the Support at Home Program
Staying in your own home, surrounded by familiar things, while getting help whenever you need it, is the goal of many of our Aussie seniors. That’s what in-home aged care is all about, and come July 2025, the Australian Government’s Support at Home Program will make it even easier.
As a trusted Aged Care Provider in Wagga Wagga, Home at Heart wants you to feel confident about these changes.
So, we’ll break down exactly what’s happening, why it matters for seniors looking for in-home aged care support, and how home care services will work in a simpler, fairer way.
Why Does the Support at Home Program Matter?
One Simple System: Instead of juggling multiple plans, you’ll have a single entry point for your in-home care. No more confusion about which program to pick.
Tailored Budgets: Your care costs match your needs. You’ll have more flexibility and won’t be stuck with set package levels.
Clear Pricing: Know exactly what each service costs. Transparent fees mean you can plan your budget without surprises.
Choice and Control: Pick your preferred aged care service provider, decide how the services will fit into your life, and adjust as your needs change.
These updates are big news for the Australian senior community, especially for baby boomer aged care clients who want to age gracefully at home.
What’s Changing? Programs Being Brought Together
The new Support at Home Program replaces four major schemes:
Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)
Home Care Packages (HCP)
Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC)
Residential Respite
By merging these schemes, the government aims to deliver a more unified In-Home Aged Care experience. From needing a bit of help with daily living now to more support later, it’ll all come under one umbrella.
Key Components of the New Program
1. National Assessment Process
A standardised approach means every senior follows the same steps:
Needs Review: What daily tasks do you find tricky? From showering to shopping, we’ll look at it all.
Goals and Lifestyle: Whether you love pottering in your garden or catching up with mates, your preferences matter.
Support Network: Family, friends, and community links are part of the picture.
Culture and Language: If English isn’t your first language or you have cultural needs, they’ll be recognised and respected.
Good assessment equals the right in-home aged care plan.
2. Individual Budgets, Not Rigid Packages
Under the old HCP levels, you might get stuck in Level 1 or Level 4 boxes. The new rules mean:
Personalised Funding: You receive money based on what you actually need.
Service-by-Service Choice: Choose the exact in-home aged care help you want, such as home visits, meal prep, or nursing care, all at clear prices.
Care Coordination Fund: A separate allocation for care planning ensures your needs stay front and centre.
3. Choice & Flexibility
The heart of the Support at Home Program is giving you the reins:
Pick Your Baby Boomers Aged Care Provider: Love your current aged care service provider? Stick with them! Fancy trying another service? Your call.
Adjust on the Go: If you need more physio for one month and extra cleaning for the next, just tweak your plan.
Option to Self-Manage: Feel like taking charge? You can handle your own budget and service bookings.
What Current In-Home Aged Care Clients Can Expect
For CHSP Participants
No Service Gaps: Your existing help keeps rolling until your transition date.
Gradual Switch: Phased moves mean you won’t be plunged into new assessments overnight.
Support Through Change: Care coordinators walk you through every step.
For In-Home Care Package Clients
Existing Arrangements Stay Put: You keep your current home care services until the new program kicks in.
Unspent Funds Management: Your unspent dollars will carry over or be returned, depending on your choice.
Early Info: You’ll get clear details about how and when you’ll move across.
How to Get Ready for the Changes?
Stay Up to Date: Visit the My Aged Care website or chat with Home at Heart for the latest news.
Review Your Care: Take stock of the home care services you love and any gaps you’d like filled.
Talk It Through: Have a chat with family, friends, or our care team about what works best for you.
Note Your Goals: Jot down what’s important, such as gardening time or social club outings.
Ask Questions: No question is too small; we’re here to help.
By preparing early, you’ll feel confident when July 2025 rolls around.
Home Care Services Benefits You’ll Love
Faster Access: Cut down on waiting lists so you get help when you need it.
More Choice: Pick home care services that matter to you—one size no longer fits all.
Transparent Costs: No hidden fees means more peace of mind for you and your wallet.
Simplified Process: One program, one assessment, and one easy way to manage your care.
These perks mean less stress and more time enjoying life at home.
How Home at Heart is Preparing
Staff Training: All our carers and coordinators are completing industry briefings on the new program.
System Updates: We’ve invested in software to track budgets, services, and client feedback seamlessly.
Resource Packs: Simple guides and checklists will be on hand to help you prepare.
At Home at Heart, we’re proud to stand by our community as a leading aged care provider in Wagga Wagga.
In Summary
The Support at Home Program is a game-changer for in-home aged care across Australia. With simpler access, personalised budgets, and total control, Aussie seniors can keep living independently and comfortably in their own home.
As your trusted Aged Care Provider in Wagga Wagga, Home at Heart is ready to support you every step of the journey. Got questions? Give us a bell. We’re here to help you make the most of these exciting changes. Cheers to better, easier care at home!
FAQs
Q1: When does the program start?
A: The Support at Home Program begins in July 2025.
Q2: Will I lose my current home care services?
A: Nope. Your existing support stays until your new plan is ready.
Q3: How are budgets set?
A: An assessment team figures out your needs, then allocates money to suit. No more one-size-fits-all.
Q4: Can I keep my current provider?
A: Yes! You can stick with Home at Heart or pick another aged care service provider.
Q5: What if my needs change?
A: Easy, just request a reassessment to tweak your budget and services.
Q6: How will prices work?
A: Each in-home aged care service has a clear fee. You’ll see exactly what you’re paying for, upfront.
Q7: Can I manage my own budget?
A: Absolutely. If you’re keen to self-manage, the program lets you do so.