On 1 November 2025, the Australian Government introduced a new program called Support at Home. This program replaces the Home Care Package and Short-Term Restorative Care program and is designed to make it easier for older people to live safely and comfortably in their own homes.
If you are already receiving home care or if you are thinking about getting some help it is natural to have questions. At Mercy Health, we have been helping older people and families understand these changes every day. Here is what you need to know.
What is Support at Home?
Support at Home is a government‑funded program that helps older people receive care and support while continuing to live at home.
The program is designed to offer clearer choices, more flexibility, and support that can change as a person’s needs change over time.
Do existing home care clients need to do anything?
No. People who were already receiving a Home Care Package were automatically transferred to Support at Home on 1 November 2025.
There is no need to reapply or start again, and existing services should continue without interruption.
Will funding or services change?
Many older people worry about losing funding when programs change. Under Support at Home, the government has committed to a “no worse off” approach. This commitment applies to any older Australian who was receiving care through a Home Care Package or had been assessed and waitlisted for a package on or before 12 September 2024.
This means funding will not be reduced simply due to the transition to the new program. Contributions to care will remain capped, and you will not incur any additional out‑of‑pocket costs as a result of the change. Existing services can continue, and any unspent funds will carry over. If care needs change in the future, support can be reviewed as required.
Will people have to pay more?
If you are not eligible for the “no worse off approach” what you pay under Support at Home depends on:
- the services they receive, and
- their personal financial situation.
In this circumstance all people will be asked to contribute, with the cost dependent on the services received and the financial situation of the recipient.
What support is available?
Support at Home can help pay for a wide range of everyday services, including:
- personal care such as showering and dressing
- nursing and in‑home allied health support
- cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation
- gardening and home maintenance
- transport and social support
- equipment like walkers or shower chairs
- home changes such as rails, ramps, or safer bathrooms.
Care is planned around what matters most to each person’s daily life and independence.
How does the funding work?
Government funding is now provided in three‑monthly periods rather than as a single yearly amount.
If all funding is not used within three months, people can carry over:
- up to $1,000, or
- up to 10% of their funding.
This helps ensure funding is available when it is needed.
Will the introduction of Support at Home affect how Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) services are delivered?
At this stage, the introduction of the Support at Home program does not change how Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) services are delivered. Support at Home currently applies to Home Care Package and Short‑Term Restorative Care clients only. CHSP will continue to operate as usual until at least July 2027, with further information to be provided closer to the CHSP transition.
Can people keep their current provider?
Yes. People can stay with their current home care provider if they are satisfied with the care they receive.
Support at Home is designed to simplify care, with a single primary provider coordinating services.
What if care needs change?
Support at Home is intended to adapt over time. If someone needs more help at home, short‑term recovery support, or extra care during serious illness, services and funding can be reviewed and adjusted.
How Mercy Health can help
Mercy Health supports older people and families to understand Support at Home in a clear and reassuring way. Their experienced team can explain the program in simple language, talk through care options at a comfortable pace, answer questions from clients or family members, and help plan care that supports independence and wellbeing at home.
Whether someone is already receiving care or is just starting to explore their options, Mercy Health offers personal support and guidance.
To learn more, call Mercy Health on 1300 478 776 or visit their websitemercyhealth.com.au/homecare
Their friendly team is ready to listen and help.
