Support at Home Classification 1 Explained
The Support at Home program is designed to help older Australians continue living independently and safely in their own homes. It provides access to a range of in-home care services tailored to your specific needs. Support at Home at level 1, the lowest classification in this program, is created to provide a small amount of assistance for individuals with basic care requirements. Understanding this level is the first step towards getting the right support to maintain your lifestyle and independence.
At Homecare My Way, we are committed to helping you navigate these changes. We offer personalised support to ensure you receive the correct level of care.
What is Support at Home Classification 1?
Support at Home classification 1, previously level 1 of the Home Care Package, is an entry-level funding classification for individuals who require minimal assistance with daily tasks. It is designed for those who are mostly independent but could benefit from some help to manage their health and wellbeing at home. This classification provides a modest budget to access essential services that make life a little easier, preventing the need for more intensive care later on.
On 1 November 2025, the Australian Government replaced Home Care Packages with Support at Home to create a more flexible approach to aged care funding, expanding from four levels to eight classifications.;
What Support Does Classification 1 Cover
With a Support at Home classification 1 budget, you can access a range of services to help you live comfortably and safely. Your personalised care plan will be developed in collaboration with you to ensure the services you receive align with your needs and goals.
These services could include:
Domestic assistance
Help with light housekeeping tasks such as vacuuming, cleaning the bathroom, doing laundry and changing bed linens.
Personal Care
Assistance with showering, dressing and grooming to help you start your day with confidence.
Social Support
Companionship at home or support to attend social outings, community groups or appointments.
Basic Home and Garden Maintenance
Minor tasks to keep your home and garden safe, such as changing light bulbs.
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Who is Eligible for Support at Home Classification 1?
Eligibility for Support at Home classification 1 is determined through a comprehensive assessment conducted by a trained assessor as part of the new Single Assessment System. This assessment evaluates your individual circumstances, including your health, mobility and the support you currently have from family and friends.
To be eligible for a classification 1 assessment, you will typically:
Have basic or entry-level care needs.
Be mostly independent but require some assistance with one or two daily activities.
Be at risk of your health declining without minor support.
Be living at home and wish to remain there.
The assessment process is person-centred, focusing on your unique situation and personal goals. If you are approved for Support at Home level 1, you will be allocated a quarterly budget to spend on approved in-home care services.
How Much Funding Does Classification 1 Provide?
Much like the value of the Home Care Package level 1, Support at Home classification 1 provides a modest quarterly budget suited to low-level, occasional support needs. The exact amount is determined by the government and reviewed periodically, so the figure you receive will reflect the most current funding rate at the time of your assessment.
Do I Have to Contribute to My Support at Home Services?
To help cover the cost of your services, you may be asked to contribute under the Support at Home program. How much you pay depends on the type of support you receive and your personal financial situation. Government funding covers the rest, ensuring your care remains accessible and fair.
Service Contributions
Your contribution is based on the type of services you receive:
- Clinical Support: No contribution. This includes nursing, allied health and medication management.
- Independence Services: Moderate contribution. Covers personal care, home modifications, domestic assistance and respite.
- Everyday Living Services: Higher contribution. Includes shopping, transport, social activities and gardening.
Financial Situation
Your income and assets also help determine your contribution:
- Full Age Pensioner: Minimum contribution.
- Part Pensioner / Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holder: Moderate contribution.
- Self-Funded Retiree: Higher contribution.
For more information about service contributions and how your circumstances affect payment, please visit our pricing page.
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How Classification 1 Compares to Other Levels
Classification 1 is the starting point of the Support at Home program, designed for entry-level support needs. As those needs grow, higher classifications are there to match them with more funding and a broader range of services:
Classification 1
Entry-level support for basic needs.
Classification 2
Low-level support with more regular assistance.
Classification 3
Moderate support for growing day-to-day needs.
Classification 4
Intermediate support for more consistent care requirements.
Classification 5
Higher level support for complex or frequent needs.
Classification 6
Substantial support for significant care needs.
Classification 7
High-level support for extensive, ongoing care.
Classification 8
The highest level of support for the most complex care needs.
If your needs have changed since your last assessment, you can request a reassessment at any time. Moving to a higher classification simply means more support is available to help you continue living independently at home.
Benefits of Self-Managing Your Support at Home Funding
One of the key features of the Support at Home program is the option to self-manage your funding. At Homecare My Way, we specialise in helping clients self-manage their services, which offers several significant benefits.
1 Greater Choice and Control
Self-managing gives you the ultimate control over your care. You decide which services you need, who provides them and when you receive them. This allows you to create a truly personalised care plan that fits your lifestyle and preferences. You can hire independent support workers, choose your preferred allied health professionals and schedule services at times that are convenient for you.
2 More Value from Your Budget
By self-managing, you can often make your funding go further. Traditional providers include higher service fees, which can reduce the number of care hours you receive. With self-management through Homecare My Way, the ability to choose your own care team means you choose workers at rates you’re comfortable paying. This can translate into more hours of support or the ability to access a wider range of services.
3 Flexibility to Meet Your Needs
Life is not static, and your care needs may change over time. Self-managing provides the flexibility to adapt your services quickly. You can easily adjust your support schedule, change providers or try new services without needing to go through a lengthy approval process with a traditional provider. This ensures your care remains relevant and effective.
How Homecare My Way Can Help
Navigating government-funded care can feel complex, but you do not have to do it alone. Homecare My Way is here to support you at every stage of your journey with Support at Home classification 1. We are dedicated to empowering you to live independently with the right support.
Here is how we can assist you:
Understanding Your Plan
We can help you understand your classification, what your quarterly budget means, and the types of services you can access.
Creating a Personalised Care Plan
We work with you to develop a care plan that reflects your goals and preferences. We help you identify the services that will make the most difference in your daily life.
Managing Your Budget
Our easy-to-use online platform allows you to track your spending, approve invoices and see exactly how your funds are being used. We handle the financial administration, so you can focus on your wellbeing.
Connecting You with Support Workers
We can help you find and hire qualified and trusted support workers in your area. You have the final say on who comes into your home.
self-managing
their Support at Home with us
“My care partner is such a delight — she’s always cheerful and respectful of my independence, she just knows how to help without taking over. It makes a real difference having someone who truly listens.”
Assistance with shopping, cleaning, gardening and home maintenance.
“The carers have been so professional and kind. They take the time to get to know us — it’s not just about the tasks, it’s about dignity and connection. We feel part of a team.”
Personal care, domestic assistance, gardening, Physio, social support and respite services.
“My mother’s care needs are quite complex, and the nursing and physio team have been excellent. They always communicate clearly with us and treat Mum with such respect and skill.”
Nursing, Equipment, personal care, shopping assistance, physio and Meal assistance.
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