Support at Home webinar for seniors, families and carers

The Australian Government recently hosted a detailed webinar to explain the upcoming Support at Home program, set to transform aged care services across the country. This new program replaces several existing aged care packages, aiming to deliver more personalised, rights-based care that better supports older Australians to stay at home longer.

If you want to learn more, watch the full government webinar embedded below (also available on the Government website).

Support at Home webinar

The key points outlined below are extracted directly from the Australian Government webinar and do not represent our own facts or opinions.

Key Speakers

• Greg Pugh (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Craig Gear (Older Persons Advocacy Network - OPAN)
• Pat Sparrow (Council on the Ageing - COTA)
• Tom Symondson (Ageing Australia) • Lezah Rushton and Jasmine Snow (Departmental colleagues)

What is the Support at Home Program?

• From 1 November 2025 (initially July 2025), the Support at Home program will replace the current Home Care Packages (HCPs) and Short Term Restorative Care programs.
• No earlier than 1 July 2027, the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will also transition into this new system.

A Rights-Based Approach

• The new Aged Care Act introduces a clear Statement of Rights for older people receiving care, emphasising dignity, respect, and choice.
• This marks a significant culture shift, requiring providers to train their workforce and update policies to uphold these rights.
• Older people will be able to enforce these rights via an improved complaints system involving providers, advocacy groups like OPAN, and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

Benefits of the New Program

• 08 Levels of Care
  There will be 08 levels of care (up from 04), offering more tailored support and helping people stay at home longer.
• Stay at Home Longer
  Higher levels of care mean ageing Australians don’t max out their Home Care Packages and enter residential aged care prematurely, allowing them to stay at home longer if they prefer.
• Reduced Waiting Times
  A government target aims for waits of no more than three months for care by July 2027.
• Two New Short-Term Pathways:

o Restorative Pathway: Support like physiotherapy or speech therapy for up to 12 weeks (extendable to 16) to regain independence after events such as hospital stays.

o End of Life Pathway: Provides up to $25,000 over three months for end-of-life care at home, complementing existing services.

• Quicker entry to the home care system: A single assessment workforce and a central My Aged Care contact point will streamline and speed up entry to home care program.
• Assistive Technology and Home Modifications: Up to $15,000 will be available for equipment and modifications like railings, with higher-level items accessible via health professional prescriptions.

Fees and Contributions

• The program guarantees a ‘No Worse Off’ principle for current clients under the new fee system.
• Clinical care services (e.g., nursing and physiotherapy) will be provided free of charge to clients.
• Other services will have contributions based on income and pension status, managed through Services Australia.
• Providers will set their own fees for the first 12 months, allowing clients to compare and choose services freely.

Provider Preparedness and Commitments

• Providers are actively updating policies, staff training, and digital systems to support a smooth transition.
• They aim for a seamless changeover that is barely noticeable to older Australians receiving care.
• Anticipated increased demand for clinical services will be met without extra costs to clients.
• Providers have pledged to deliver better care from day one and request patience as the system changes.

The Role of the Council of Elders

• Formed following the Aged Care Royal Commission’s recommendations, this 13-member group represents older Australians’ voices in the reform process.
• They advise the government on aged care policy, focusing on early intervention, restorative care, home modifications, assistive technology, and end-of-life funding.
• The Council’s Chair also leads the Aged Care Transition Taskforce, ensuring smooth implementation of the new Act.

What This Means for You

The Support at Home program represents a major shift towards personalised, rights-based care that empowers older Australians to live independently and with dignity. While some changes will take time to fully roll out, this reform promises faster access, greater choice, and more comprehensive support for people who want to stay at home as they age.

If you or a loved one currently receives aged care services, it’s a good idea to stay informed and communicate with your care provider as the transition approaches.