As we age, maintaining independence at home can become challenging. That’s where the Support at Home program comes in. These government-subsidised programs are designed to support older Australians living comfortably and safely in their homes.
But how do you know if you’re eligible for one? This guide will explain everything you need to know about Support at Home eligibility.
If you are searching for information about who is eligible for a home care package in Australia, want to understand home care package eligibility, or need guidance on eligibility for home care packages, it is important to know that the Home Care Package (HCP) program has now been replaced. The new Support at Home program commenced on 1 November 2025, bringing together and refining the previous in-home aged care programs—including the HCP—to better serve older Australians who wish to remain living independently at home.
Although many people are familiar with home care packages, all new applications for ongoing, coordinated care at home are now managed through the Support at Home program. This new approach provides a more streamlined and flexible way to access the right support as your needs change over time.
To qualify for the Support at Home program, in Australia you must meet specific criteria related to your age and care needs.
Eligibility for the Support at Home program is generally as follows:
As with the eligbility with the former home care package program, eligibility depends not just on age but also on your assessed care needs. You must require more than basic, entry-level support. This is often due to ageing, disability or health conditions that affect your ability to manage everyday activities.
An assessment is needed to determine whether your needs are best met through the comprehensive services provided under the Support at Home program.
It is important to know that your financial situation does not affect your eligibility; however, an income assessment will determine the amount you need to contribute towards your care.
The assessment process remains similar to what was required for home care packages, but is now part of the Single Assessment System introduced on 1 July 2024. This system streamlines eligibility for all government-funded aged care in Australia, making it easier to access the care you need under the Support at Home program.
The assessment is a comprehensive review of your care needs, completed at home by a qualified assessor. Here’s what to expect:
Here’s how to ensure a smooth assessment process:
The assessor will discuss your care needs, current support and safety concerns. They’ll develop a support plan tailored to your goals and provide you with a copy. You can also request your support plan to be added to your My Health Record for easy access.
Your eligibility is determined by:
If you need immediate help while waiting for the outcome of your assessment, you can explore interim options such as:
You can discuss these options with your assessor if you require care sooner.
Once your assessment confirms your eligibility, you will receive a letter stating the outcome. This document is needed when selecting a provider for your care.
If you wish to dispute your assessment results, you are entitled to request a review.
After approval, you may have a short wait in the national queue. When your funding is assigned, you can choose a provider that fits your individual needs. Our team at Homecare My Way is here to offer guidance and help you manage your funding so you receive the best possible care.
If you already receive government-funded in-home care and wish to change providers, you can do so via My Aged Care’s online portal or by calling their centre.
If you find that you’re not eligible for Support at Home, the assessor’s letter will explain the reasons why. But don’t worry — there are still plenty of options to support your care and wellbeing. Here’s what you can do:
If you have any concerns about your eligibility for Support at Home funding, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your assessor. You also have the option to request a free review of the decision if needed.
Navigating the Support at Home program can sometimes feel overwhelming, but plenty of resources can help guide you. Here are some key tools and steps to get started:
Our team at Homecare My Way is also here to help you navigate the process, answer your questions and give you the support you need.
Understanding current eligibility for government-funded home care starts with recognising the changes to Australia’s aged care programs. If you are seeking home care package eligibility or want to know who is eligible for a home care package in Australia today, the process now centres around the Support at Home program.
Our team is dedicated to helping you assess your needs, navigate the assessment process, and access personalised in-home support so you can continue living safely and comfortably at home.
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