As more older Australians choose to remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible, the demand for in-home aged care services continues to rise. Recognising this, the Australian Government has committed over $440 million to enhance support services, ensuring that more people can receive care while staying connected to their communities.

At Bankstown City Aged Care (BCAC), we understand the importance of high-quality in-home support and are committed to helping seniors live safely, comfortably, and independently at home. Here’s what you need to know about the increasing demand for in-home care and how the Government’s new Support at Home program will impact the sector.

Over the past decade, the number of Australians accessing Commonwealth-funded home care packages has significantly increased, with more than 216,000 people now receiving in-home support.

What Is The Support at Home Program?

Set to launch in July 2025, the Support at Home program will replace the current Home Care Package Program and short-term restorative care program. The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will also merge into this new system from July 2027.

Under the new system:

  • The number of care levels will increase from four to eight, offering more tailored support
  • Funding will rise to up to $78,000 per person annually
  • Home care services will remain based on individual assessed needs
  • A lifetime cap of $130,000 will be introduced for non-clinical care costs, including both in-home and residential care

Future Client Contributions Towards Services

As part of the Support at Home program, clients will be required to contribute to the cost of their care where financially able. These contributions will be means-tested, ensuring that support remains affordable and accessible for those who need it most. The lifetime cap of $130,000 on non-clinical care costs across both in-home and residential care will remain in place, preventing unexpected financial burdens. It’s important to understand these changes now so you can plan ahead for the transition in July 2025.

What’s Not Changing?

  • The types of services covered – in-home support will continue to include personal care, domestic assistance, transport, meal preparation and more.
  • The way funding is allocated – care will still be provided based on assessed needs.
  • CHSP funding – this will continue as normal until 2027.
  • Home Care Package costs – current and approved recipients who already have a Home Care Package (or those who are approved for a Home Care Package before July 2025) will switch to the new system but will not have to pay more than they currently do for their care.

How Will Support at Home Benefit Seniors?

The Support at Home program is designed to improve the overall quality of in-home care and address key issues highlighted in the 2021 Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. Benefits of the new system include:
✔️ A more streamlined and equitable in-home care system
✔️ Better access to essential services, equipment, and home modifications
✔️ Support for a larger number of seniors
✔️ Reduced waiting times for care services

Now Is the Time to Apply for a Home Care Package

If you or a loved one are considering in-home support, now is a great time to apply for a Home Care Package. At BCAC, our experienced coordinators can visit your home, assess your needs and develop a personalised support plan to help you maintain independence.

If you already access our In-Home Support services, a coordinator will be in touch with you between now and July 2025 to discuss the utilisation of your current funds, as excess funds will not roll over in the new model.

To learn more about in-home support, visit our In-Home Support Services page, contact us on 8717 0199 or visit: https://bcac.com.au/contact/