Support at Home: Understanding the Upcoming Aged Care Reforms

The Australian Government is implementing significant updates to the aged care system, focusing on providing better support for older Australians who wish to stay independent and live in their homes as they age. Effective from 1 July 2025, these reforms aim to empower you with greater choice and assurance in the services you receive, ensuring access to high-quality care remains consistent.

Launch of the Support at Home Program (Starting 1 July 2025)

The Support at Home initiative will replace the existing Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care Programs, delivering more customized support to meet your specific needs. By 2035, the program aims to assist around 1.4 million Australians, helping them continue living in their homes and communities longer. The new system includes:

• Clinical care: Fully covered services like nursing, physiotherapy, and other essential health support.
• Assistance with daily tasks: Support with showering, dressing, and managing medications.
• Household help: Services like cleaning, gardening, and meal preparation, with contributions based on your financial situation.

With eight levels of care compared to the current four, the new program offers greater flexibility and options. This means more personalized support that aligns with your needs, with up to $78,000 per year available based on your assessment.

Guarantee of No Increased Costs

For those already on a Home Care Package, the transition to the new system will not leave you at a disadvantage. The Government’s “no worse off” guarantee ensures:

• Your costs won’t increase, so you can continue receiving the support you’re familiar with.
• Any leftover funds from your current package will roll over into the new system.
• Your contributions will remain the same or could even decrease under the new arrangement.

Major Investment in Aged Care

The changes come with a major investment:

• $4.3 billion specifically dedicated to the Support at Home program.
• $5.6 billion overall for broader reforms, marking the most substantial update in the sector in over 30 years.

Adjustments to Funding and Contributions

The new system will see:

• 100% coverage of clinical care services, such as nursing.
• Means-tested contributions for other support, like help with everyday activities and home tasks, based on the Age Pension means test.
• A lifetime cap of $130,000 for non-clinical care costs, ensuring financial peace of mind.

Home Modifications and Equipment Access

If your home needs adjustments or you require special equipment, the program provides:

• Up to $15,000 for modifications, such as installing handrails or ramps.
• Quicker access to necessary devices, like walkers or wheelchairs, through a new loan scheme.

End-of-Life Support at Home

The program offers up to $25,000 in extra support during the final three months of life, enabling you to stay in the comfort of your home, close to those who matter most during this important time.

Residential Care Improvements

For those who may need residential care, the reforms include:

• Measures to enhance the quality and funding of residential services.
• Stronger regulations to safeguard residents, including penalties for violations and a new independent Complaints Commissioner.
• The family home’s status in means testing remains unchanged, offering stability for families.

Transition Period for Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)

For those currently using CHSP services, these will continue until 1 July 2027 or later, before transitioning to the new Support at Home program. This phased approach ensures a smooth adjustment for both clients and providers.

Planning for the Future

These reforms focus on giving you the choice, independence, and support you deserve as you age. By blending new investments with ongoing assistance, the Australian Government aims to create a more reliable and sustainable aged care system for the future.

For more information, visit the Australian Government Department of Health website or you can download the Government’s Support at Home Program Handbook here. If you have any questions, reach out to us—the team at Home Care Assistance Central Coast are here to help you understand what these changes mean for you.

Ref: Australian Government Department of Health website: https://www.health.gov.au/ as at 08.10.24