Understanding the Support at Home Reforms in Australia’s Aged Care System
The Support at Home reforms are set to transform the way Australians receive aged care support at home. Launching on 1 November 2025, this new program will replace the existing Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care Program, while running alongside the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) until 2027. For caregivers and families, understanding these reforms is essential to ensure loved ones can access the right level of care without unnecessary stress.
What Are the Support at Home Reforms?
The Support at Home reforms aim to simplify and improve in-home aged care by introducing:
A single assessment process for easier access.
Eight funding levels (compared to four under HCP).
Two new pathways: the Restorative Care Pathway and End of Life Care Pathway.
Reduced wait times, targeting just 2–3 months.
Key Funding Changes
Under the Support at Home reforms, the highest care package (Level 8) will provide up to $78,000 per year. The End of Life pathway allows up to $25,000 over 12 weeks to ensure dignity and comfort in the final months of life. Importantly, clinical care remains fully government funded, meaning services like nursing, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy will not require client contributions.
No Worse Off Principle
For people already receiving care through the Home Care Package system before 12 September 2024, the government has introduced a “no worse off principle.” This ensures that clients will not pay more than they currently do and can even carry over unspent funds (up to $1,000 per quarter).
What Families and Carers Need to Know
A significant change under the reforms is the introduction of a unit pricing model. This means all fees—including management and travel—are rolled into a single hourly rate. While the rate may look higher, the reduced care management fees (capped at 10%) should balance out, ensuring clients receive the same amount of support hours.
For family carers, this change simplifies understanding the cost of care and makes it easier to explain to loved ones. The Support at Home reforms mark a major shift in aged care delivery, promising simpler processes, fairer pricing, and quicker access to support. Families, carers, and providers should start preparing now to understand the changes and advocate for loved ones’ needs.
For more resources regarding the Support at Home Program click the following links
Australian Government - Department of Health, Disability and Ageing: For resources on the aged care reforms
My Aged Care: For resources on upcoming changes to support roles and relationships
Carer Gateway: For resources on looking after yourself during these changes