Support at Home Program. What you need to know!

What you need to know about Support at Home from Luxe Care

$4.3 billion will be invested in the government's new Support at Home program.The program will replace the Home Care Packages Program and the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Program.

The Support at Home program is set to replace the Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care Programme from July 1, 2025. This Date has now been pushed back by the government to 1st November 2025. This new initiative aims to help older Australians stay independent and live at home longer.

Key features of the program:

• Increased funding: Maximum annual funding for in-home aged care will rise from $61,440 to $78,000.

• Faster access: Wait times between approval and service assignment will decrease, targeting 3 months by July 2027.

• Care partner support: Registered providers will offer care management to help participants achieve the best outcomes.

• Efficient pricing: Capped prices and no separate administrative fees.

• Fair contributions: Participants only pay for non-clinical services received.

The program will expand to include:

• Assistive Technology and Home Modification Scheme: Up to $15,000 upfront funding for aids and home modifications.

• Extended Restorative Care: Support increased from 8 to 12 weeks, with places doubled to 5,000 per quarter.

• End-of-Life Pathway: $25,000 over 3 months for those with less than 3 months to live, supporting dignified home care.

How will the program be implemented?

1. November 1, 2025: Support at Home replaces Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care.

2. Existing home care recipients (as at 12 September 2024) transition to SAH with equivalent funding.

3. Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) joins no earlier than July 1, 2027.Who’s eligible?

            • People over 65

            • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over 50

            • Those at risk of homelessness over 50

What’s next for you?

If you’re currently receiving home care services, expect a smooth transition to the new program. Your funding will match your existing package level.

For those considering in-home aged care, the Support at Home program offers more comprehensive and accessible services. Keep an eye out for further announcements as the implementation date approaches.

Have you thought about how you might benefit from these changes? What services could help you maintain your independence at home? At Luxe Care, we provide the highest quality personalised care and support to enable older people to remain at home. We will discuss your circumstances and preferences and help you understand your options. We want to help. Please call 1300 674 886 or contact us