Understanding the New ‘Support at Home’ Program 

For many Australians, the ability to stay at home for as long as possible is a common goal. With the Federal Government introducing a new Support at Home program that started 1 November 2025, the aged care landscape is changing (again)- and with it, the financial considerations you’ll need to think about. As a financial adviser specialising in aged care, I work with individuals and families who want clarity. Here is a brief summary of the changes and some helpful links if you want more information.

What Is the Support at Home Program?

Support at Home is the government’s new approach to helping older Australians stay living safely in their own homes. It replaces the old structure of Home Care Packages and several other community-based programs.

In simple terms, this reform should offer:

  • A single, streamlined system instead of separate programs
  • More flexibility in choosing the services you need
  • Simpler funding rules so your budget aligns with your goals
  • A focus on early support so you can maintain independence for longer

The intention was to make the system easier to navigate-something many families have struggled with for years.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility is based on care needs, not your income or assets. You’ll need an assessment through the government’s aged-care gateway (My Aged Care). 

What Types of Support Will Be Available?

Unlike the old model, Support at Home groups services into broader support categories, allowing you to use your funding more flexibly.

Here are some of the main areas of support:

Everyday Living Support

These services help maintain daily routines, such as domestic assistance, meals, shopping and help with appointments.

Independence and Wellness Support

This includes physiotherapy, occupational therapy and services designed to keep you active, mobile and safer at home.

Clinical and Personal Care

Nursing, medications management, wound care, continence support and personal care tasks like showering or dressing.

Home Modifications and Assistive Technology

You may be able to access funding for things like bathroom rails, ramps, mobility aids, communication devices, or home upgrades intended to improve safety.

Short-Term and Restorative Support

This program places a stronger emphasis on early intervention, so you can get extra support when you’re recovering from an illness, injury or hospital stay.

How Your Funding Will Work

Under the Support at Home model, your funding is linked to a quarterly budget, based on your assessed care level.

Some important considerations:

  • You can carry over unused funds, up to a limit.
  • Funds must be used for approved services, not general household expenses.
  • Your own contributions may apply, depending on your income.

Will You Need to Pay Anything?

Most people will contribute a basic amount towards their care, similar to the old model. There may also be income-tested contributions, but this depends on your financial circumstances. These fees can vary widely from person to person, which is why personalised advice is essential.

How to Apply for Support at Home

Here’s the typical process:

  1. Start with My Aged Care – either online or by phone.
  2. Complete an assessment to determine your support level.
  3. Receive your funding level and information about what is included.
  4. Choose your providers and begin services.
  5. Review your plan regularly to ensure it meets your needs.

Key Financial Considerations to Keep in Mind

Even though this program focuses on care, the financial flow-on effects matter too – especially if you’re planning for residential aged care in the future. Here are the key points I recommend you think about:

Budgeting for contributions

Know how much your services will cost and what portion the government will cover.

Understanding carry-over rules

Unused funds can accumulate up to a limit. This can help you plan for larger future expenses like home modifications.

Monitoring provider charges

Providers must disclose fees clearly – but it’s your responsibility to compare value.

Considering long-term care pathways

Support at Home can help prolong your ability to stay at home, but it’s also important to prepare financially for the possibility of higher care needs later on.

What If You Need More Help Later?

The Support at Home program is built to scale with your needs. If your health changes, you can request a reassessment. For those who eventually require residential aged care, the financial implications are more complex – but planning ahead can help protect your assets, reduce stress and support better decision-making.

If you’d like help planning ahead, reviewing your eligibility, or understanding what the reforms mean for your situation, I’m here to guide you through it. I am here to help you understand:

  • What the new system means for your finances
  • What you may be asked to contribute
  • How to plan for future care needs
  • How to structure your assets to minimise costs where possible
  • How to transition confidently if residential aged care becomes necessary

Having someone in your corner who understands the system can save you time, money and stress.

For more information:

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