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If you are currently receiving a Home Care Package (HCP), you should have received a letter from the Australian Government about the move to the new Support at Home program starting 1 July 2025. These letters explain the changes, outline what to expect and provide a checklist to help you prepare.

But with so much information coming through the mail, it’s easy to feel unsure. That’s why we have broken down the letters, and what it all means for you.

What is Support at Home?

Support at Home is the new program that will replace Home Care Packages from July 2025. It’s still designed to help older Australians live independently at home, with the services, products, equipment and home modifications they need to stay active, connected and safe.

You will continue to receive services based on your assessed needs and budget. And if the services you're currently using are on the new Support at Home list, you can keep receiving them.

What’s the same?

You’ll continue with your current provider under the new Support at Home program, unless you choose to make a change. The level of funding you receive will stay the same, so there’s no change to the amount of support available to you. And don’t worry, any unspent funds you currently have in your Home Care Package will carry over into the new system.

What’s changing?

Support at Home introduces some important improvements, including:

  • Quarterly budgets – Your annual budget will now be paid in four parts. You can carry over up to $1,000 or 10% of your quarterly budget (whichever is greater) if you don’t spend it all.
  • Stronger protections on pricing – Your provider must explain their new pricing and create a new service agreement with you. The government has put rules in place to make sure prices are reasonable and transparent.
  • Targeted care pathways, including:
    • Restorative care: Up to 12 weeks of allied health support to build your strength.
    • End-of-life care: Access to more support if you are nearing the end of life.

Dedicated funding for equipment and home modifications

One of the most welcome changes is separate funding for assistive technology and home modifications.

This means you won’t need to dip into your regular care budget to pay for items like magnifiers or screen readers, mobility aids or safety improvements around the home like handrails.

You’ll be able to use this funding to get the right tools in place to make life easier and safer at home, without sacrificing your daily support services.

Have a conversation with your provider about what you need. This can be part of your new service agreement discussion.

What to do next

  • Check if you’ve received the government letter. It came from the Department of Health and Aged Care in early May. If you’re unsure, ask your provider or check with your nominated representative.
  • Expect a conversation with your provider before 1 July 2025. They will contact you to review your care plan and explain any changes.
  • Look out for another letter from Services Australia. They will let you know if you need to provide income details for co-contribution purposes.
  • Get support if you need it. The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) can help you understand your rights and talk through your options. You can call 1800 700 600 or visit opan.org.au.

How can I find out more?

Visit myagedcare.gov.au/improving-australias-aged-care-system for more information and resources, or speak with your current Home Care Package provider.

Remember that big changes take time to settle in, and you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Talk to your provider, reach out for support and take things one step at a time.