Australia’s aged care system continues to evolve to make essential services more affordable and accessible for older Australians. One of the most significant improvements coming to the Support at Home program is the introduction of fully government-funded personal care services for eligible participants.
From 1 October 2026, approved Support at Home clients will no longer be required to contribute towards the cost of personal care services. Instead, these services will become part of the Clinical Supports Contributions category, which is fully funded by the Australian Government.
This change is designed to reduce financial pressure on older Australians while ensuring they continue receiving the daily assistance they need to remain living independently at home.
What Is Changing on 1 October 2026?
Beginning on 1 October 2026, personal care services listed under the Support at Home service catalogue will move from their current funding arrangement into the Clinical Supports Contributions category.
This means that:
- Eligible clients will pay no out-of-pocket costs for approved personal care services.
- The Australian Government will fully fund these services through the Support at Home program.
- Existing personal care services will continue without interruption.
- There is no need for clients to reapply for eligibility.
The reform is intended to simplify funding arrangements while improving affordability for older Australians.
What Personal Care Services Are Included?
Personal care refers to the everyday support many older people require to maintain their health, dignity and independence.
Depending on individual needs, personal care services may include assistance with:
- Showering and bathing
- Dressing and grooming
- Personal hygiene
- Toileting assistance
- Mobility support
- Other daily living activities
These services remain an essential part of helping older Australians safely remain in their own homes for longer.
Will Eligibility Change?
No.
The Government has confirmed that the funding changes do not alter eligibility requirements for personal care services.
If you are already approved for personal care under your Support at Home budget, you can continue receiving these services as usual, provided sufficient funds remain available within your allocated package.
The change only affects how the services are funded, not who can access them.
Do Clients Need to Do Anything?
For most people, no action is required.
Some aged care providers may contact clients to:
- Update service agreements
- Revise care plans
- Explain the funding changes
These administrative updates help providers align with the new government funding arrangements but generally do not require clients to make any significant decisions.
Why This Change Matters
The removal of out-of-pocket costs for personal care represents an important step towards making aged care more affordable.
Many older Australians rely on personal care every day. By fully funding these essential services, the Government aims to:
- Reduce financial stress on older Australians and their families.
- Encourage earlier access to necessary care.
- Support people to remain independent at home for longer.
- Improve fairness across the aged care system.
For many households, this reform will provide greater confidence when planning future care needs.
Understanding Your Support at Home Options
Although the funding changes are straightforward, many families still find Australia’s aged care system difficult to navigate.
Understanding:
- available funding,
- provider fees,
- service inclusions,
- care plans,
- and provider differences
can still be challenging, particularly when choosing the right aged care provider.
Support Services Connect Australia (SSCA) offers a free Care Finding service to help older Australians and their families compare suitable Home Care providers based on their needs, preferences and location.
With more than 25 years of experience in Australia’s aged care sector, SSCA provides independent guidance to help make choosing the right provider simpler and less stressful. Whether you are applying for government funding or looking for a suitable provider in Melbourne and surrounding areas, SSCA can assist you in finding a provider that best matches your individual circumstances—at no cost to you.