Australia is reforming its home care system through the Support at Home program, changing the way older Australians pay for residential and out-of-home care. The government says it’s all about making the system more fair, flexible, and transparent, but plenty of people in the aged care world are waiting to see if those promises hold up. Many are concerned they will not be able to access the same level of care under the new plan.
The Support at Home program brings together several existing programs — like Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care — into one simpler, easier-to-navigate system. It officially launched on November 1st, 2025, and it’s designed to cut down on unnecessary administration, shorten long waiting lists, and give seniors more control over the kind of help they get. The big idea is to help them stay in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, instead of moving into residential care before they really need to. With this new setup, people can get more personalized support — from home modifications and mobility equipment to meal prep and cleaning services — all tailored to their lifestyle and needs. There’s also a focus on transparency, so people can actually see where their money is going and what services they’re paying for. The government says the changes will make the system more financially sustainable in the long run, hopefully ensuring aged care funding keeps up with Australia’s growing ageing population.
Older Australians entering the aged care system will now have to pay for “non-clinical” services like showers and help with medication. Everyone will get assessed for the level of care they need, but instead of receiving a fixed package, the funding will be tied directly to that assessment. Basically, the more income or assets you have, the more you might be asked to contribute. While the government says no one currently receiving care will pay more, many seniors might see increased out-of-pocket expenses. Everyday help — like cooking, cleaning, or housework — might also get pricier, which could make some people cut back or delay their care. For those living on fixed pensions, that’s a pretty big worry. And many are still unsure if they’ll be able to get the same quality and amount of care under the new setup.
For seniors who can’t pay for their care, the government says there will be safeguards to ensure no one is denied care based on finances. They can apply for financial hardship assistance through Services Australia or talk to their provider about reduced rates. There are also community programs, like the Commonwealth Home Support Program, which can provide basic help at a lower cost while waiting for a full package.
National Seniors Australia and Australian Unity are calling on the government to rethink charging for personal care like showering or wound dressing. They say it’s a basic need, not a luxury, and should be fully funded to keep older Aussies healthy and out of hospital.
