Australia’s new Support at Home program, due to roll out from 1 July 2025, will reshape how older Australians receive help to keep living independently in their own homes. It combines what was previously covered by Home Care Packages (HCP), the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) into one simpler, more flexible system.
So, what types of services can you actually receive under Support at Home? Here’s a detailed look at what will be on offer, how they work, and how they can be tailored to match your unique needs.
Before diving into the list, it helps to understand why these services are being updated. The new Support at Home program was designed to:
Most importantly, it recognises that older Australians want to stay in their own homes and communities for as long as possible — and that the right mix of services can make that possible.
The Support at Home program offers a wide range of services, grouped into categories to help you understand what’s available:
Let’s explore each in detail so you know what they include and how they could help you or a loved one stay safe and comfortable at home.
Personal care services help with tasks that you may no longer be able to manage alone. Examples include:
These tasks help prevent falls, maintain hygiene and dignity, and reduce the stress on family carers who may otherwise struggle to help.
Keeping a home clean, safe, and functional can become harder as you age. Support at Home services can include:
These practical supports can make a huge difference to your quality of life, helping you maintain pride in your home while staying safe.
Some older people need more complex healthcare delivered in the home. Support at Home will cover:
Bringing clinical care into your home can reduce hospital visits and keep you healthier in familiar surroundings.
Maintaining mobility, strength, and mental health is vital for staying independent. Allied health professionals can provide:
These services can be arranged as needed and adjusted if your health changes.
Good nutrition keeps you healthy, but cooking can be difficult if you have mobility, strength, or cognitive challenges. Services may include:
Keeping up a nutritious diet helps maintain strength and prevents unplanned weight loss or malnutrition.
Staying connected with your community means being able to get out and about. Support at Home can include:
Reliable transport can reduce isolation and help you maintain independence.
Loneliness can affect mental and physical health. Support at Home encourages social wellbeing through:
Staying connected helps you remain active and involved in community life.
Sometimes small changes make a big difference to staying safe. The program will cover approved modifications and equipment such as:
Support at Home recognises that unpaid family carers often need a break to look after their own wellbeing. Services may include:
This helps family carers stay healthy and continue their role without burning out.
Under the new program, you’ll have more say in how your funding is used. You can:
Funding levels range from entry-level support for just a few hours a week to more complex packages for daily or clinical care.
All providers must meet the Aged Care Quality Standards. This means you should expect services that are:
You can switch providers if you’re unhappy with the services you receive.
To access Support at Home services:
The Support at Home program gives older Australians more choice, control and peace of mind about staying at home safely. Whether you need a little help with the shopping or daily nursing care, the goal is to put you — and your wellbeing — at the centre of every decision.
At OMS, we’re here to help you navigate the aged care system, understand your options, and feel confident about planning for your future. If you’d like tailored guidance on how to choose services, compare providers or manage costs, don’t hesitate to reach out or explore our free resources.
Staying independent starts with good information — and we’re glad you’re here.