08 Dec 2025
Support At Home Vs Homecare Packages: Key Differences Every Family Should Know
Navigating Australia’s aged care system can be overwhelming, especially with new reforms like the aged care Support at Home program. Understanding what’s changing and how it affects existing Home Care Packages can help families make confident, informed choices for their loved ones.
What is Support at Home?
Support at Home is the Australian Government’s new in-home aged care program. It’s designed to make in-home support simpler, more flexible and better tailored to each person’s needs.
This program brings together several existing services under one system, including the Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC), with the goal of helping older Australians live independently at home for longer.
When does Support at Home start?
The Support at Home program officially launched on 1 November 2025. If you’re already receiving a Home Care Package, you won’t need to reapply. You’re automatically moved across to the new system with the same level of funding.
Meanwhile, the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will transition no earlier than 1 July 2027. Since mid-2025, providers have been contacting clients to review care plans and prepare for the shift. Families can also expect clear communication about any changes to agreements, budgets and services, ensuring a smooth transition into Support at Home.
Why is Support at Home being introduced?
Australia’s aged care system has undergone major reforms following the Aged Care Royal Commission. The Support at Home program is part of this transformation, aiming to create a simpler, fairer and more transparent model for in-home aged care.
The program focuses on:
✔ Consistency — One assessment and care plan for all in-home services
✔ Flexibility — Easier to change or add services as needs evolve
✔ Transparency — Clearer pricing and contribution rules
✔ Choice and control — Older Australians can tailor care around their personal goals and lifestyle
By combining existing programs, Support at Home reduces duplication and ensures that funding goes directly towards meaningful care.
What is the difference between Support at Home and Home Care Packages?
While both programs are designed to help older people live independently, Support at Home builds upon and improves the Home Care Packages model in several key ways:
This means families no longer have to navigate separate systems for restorative care or palliative support. Everything will be delivered through one coordinated program, making it easier to manage care and maintain independence.
What services are covered under Support at Home compared to Home Care Packages?
The Support at Home program offers a broad range of supports based on assessed needs. These are grouped into three key areas:
Clinical care — Nursing, wound care, continence support, occupational therapy and other allied health services.
Independence — Help with personal tasks like dressing, medication management or transport to appointments.
Everyday living — Support with cleaning, meal preparation, gardening and shopping.
Unlike Home Care Packages, Support at Home also includes several specialised pathways for short-term or high-need care:
✔ Restorative Care Pathway — Up to 16 weeks of allied health services (worth around $6,000–$12,000) to help regain independence after illness or injury.
✔ End-of-Life Pathway —Up to approximately $25,000 over 12 weeks to support individuals wishing to remain at home in their final months.
How will funding and contributions work?
Under Support at Home, funding is tailored quarterly to better reflect real-time care needs. Unused funds can roll over into the next quarter (up to $1,000 or 10% — whichever is greater).
Contributions will also be clearer and fairer. You’ll only pay for the services you receive, and clinical care such as nursing or physiotherapy will remain fully government-covered.
Contribution rates will depend on income, assets and the type of service:
Importantly, the “no worse off” principle guarantees that anyone already receiving Home Care Packages will not pay more under Support at Home.
How Lumia Care supports families through the change
We know that transitioning to the new Support at Home program can feel like a big change, but you’re not alone in it. Our team of nurses and caregivers is trusted by hospitals and chosen by families for one reason — we care deeply about helping people live life on their own terms. From in-home care and respite support to agency nursing, we build care teams that are reliable and truly centred on you.
At Lumia Care, we’ll guide you and your family through every step of the transition from Home Care Packages to aged care and Support at Home, making sure your services, supports and funding continue smoothly. Learn more about how we can help your family prepare for Support at Home.
