Mistakes To Avoid For A Smooth Transition To Support At Home

Six common mistakes during a Support at Home transition

Understanding the most common mistakes families make can help you feel more prepared and confident throughout your Support at Home transition.

1. Waiting too long to review current services

One of the most common challenges is leaving service planning until the last minute. As the system changes, take time to review what’s working, what isn’t and the goals you want reflected in your new care arrangements. Starting early makes sure nothing is overlooked, especially if circumstances have changed since your last review.

2. Not understanding how funding works

Under the new model, funding is structured differently, with customers receiving a quarterly budget instead of a daily subsidy. This shift influences how services are planned and delivered during your Support at Home transition. A common mistake is assuming funding will work the same as it did under Home Care Packages.

3. Overlooking the new classification levels

Support at Home introduces classification levels 1–8, replacing the old Package Levels 1–4. These levels determine your budget and available services, which makes them central to your care plan. Not understanding the ranges can lead to confusion when comparing your current Support at Home transition to the new program.

4. Not preparing for assessment changes

The transition also brings the Single Assessment System, replacing ACAT and RAS. Some families assume assessments will follow the same format as before, but the new system is more detailed and holistic. Arriving unprepared — without updated goals, recent health information, or clarity around daily challenges — can lead to an outcome that doesn’t fully reflect your needs.

5. Not exploring self-management early

Many clients and families focus on structural changes and overlook how they want their care delivered moving forward. The Support at Home model offers more flexibility, and self-management can provide greater choice, transparency, and control. A common mistake is assuming you must stay with traditional care management. Exploring your options early helps you enter your Support at Home transition feeling confident and empowered.

6. Navigating the change alone

The Support at Home transition can feel complex, and families often underestimate how helpful guidance can be. Understanding the terminology, funding, assessments and timelines is easier with the right support.

Transition to Support at Home smoothly with Homecare My Way

Homecare My Way offers practical guidance for anyone preparing for the Support at Home transition — from understanding assessment and eligibility to exploring the benefits of self-management under the new program. Our team supports customers and families across Victoria, NSW and the rest of Australia (except NT). If you’d like personalised help with your transition, call 1300 422 123 or download your free information pack to learn how to move forward with confidence.