Australia’s aged care system is evolving. The new Support at Home Program, set to replace the current Home Care Package system in July 2025 and fully integrate the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) by July 2027, is designed to make home care more flexible, personalised, and transparent for older Australians.
At Support Services Connect Australia (SSCA), we’ve supported families for over 25 years, helping them navigate the complexities of aged care. Through our free Care Finding service, we make it easier to choose a suitable provider and understand your funding and care options.
Let’s explore eight key benefits the new Support at Home Program will bring—and how SSCA will support you through each one.
Personalised and Flexible Care Plans
The Support at Home Program moves away from rigid structures and focuses on tailored care, built around each person’s specific health needs, goals, and preferences. Whether you need help with daily living tasks or long-term health management, your care plan will reflect what truly matters to you.
SSCA helps you build and review your plan so it’s both effective and meaningful—ensuring you only receive services that are relevant to your life.
Clearer Classifications and Budgets
Instead of the current level-based Home Care Packages, the new system will classify recipients into care “classes,” each linked to a quarterly care budget. This allows for better alignment of care needs with available funding.
SSCA helps you understand your assigned class, explains your quarterly budget, and ensures the provider selected offers true value and transparency.
Easier Access to Allied Health Services
The program includes early access to allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and dietitians—without needing to tap into long-term funds.
SSCA helps you find providers that integrate these services into your care plan, enhancing your physical, nutritional, and emotional well-being from day one.
Stronger Support for Family Caregivers
Recognising the critical role caregivers play, the program will offer respite services, counselling, and training to ensure informal carers are supported and protected from burnout.
SSCA helps you identify care options that respect and support your family dynamics while ensuring the care recipient’s needs are met.
Proactive Wellness and Preventative Focus
This is more than just reactive care. The new program emphasizes preventative healthcare through lifestyle interventions, screenings, and early supports—keeping people healthier, longer.
SSCA helps you choose providers who integrate proactive health measures into their standard service offerings.
Access to Assistive Technology and Home Modifications
Through the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme, participants can access mobility aids and short-term reablement supports without impacting their core care budget.
SSCA helps you fast-track access to essential tools that improve safety, independence, and comfort at home.
Simplified Fee Structures
One of the frustrations in the current Home Care system is confusing and inconsistent fees. The Support at Home Program promises greater transparency in service fees and clearer communication, helping families make informed decisions.
SSCA helps you compare fee structures across providers and ensures there are no hidden costs or unnecessary charges.
Seamless Transition and Long-Term Planning Support
The program also focuses on continuity of care, meaning that transitioning from home care to higher levels of support (like residential aged care) will be better coordinated.
SSCA helps you plan not only for today, but for the future. We support you through changes in care needs and help you find the right services for every stage—whether you remain at home or require residential placement later on.
Why Choose SSCA?
At Support Services Connect Australia, our Care Finding service is free, personalised, and backed by decades of experience. Our team of qualified experts in social work and care management helps you:
- Understand how the Support at Home Program works
- Apply for funding and navigate My Aged Care
- Compare providers and service options
- Plan for long-term needs, including transitions to residential care
- Get help without repeating your story over and over
Ready to Explore Your Home Care Options?
We know how overwhelming aged care can be—especially with a new national program on the horizon. Let SSCA take the stress out of your search.
Contact Support Services Connect Australia today and let our expert Care Finding team help you get the support you need to live well, at home.