Support at HomeClassification 3 Explained
The Support at Home program, introduced by the Australian Government, is designed to ensure older Australians receive the support they need to continue living with dignity and independence in their own homes. Support at Home classification 3, also referred to as Support at Home level 3, is tailored for individuals with moderate care needs, offering a step up in support from lower classifications.
Understanding this classification is essential for gaining access to regular assistance and the right mix of services to help you manage daily living and maintain your health.
At Homecare My Way, we are committed to providing the guidance and reassurance you need to confidently navigate your aged care options, including Support at Home Classification Level 3 and aged care package level 3. We specialise in supporting you to self-manage your funding and develop a personalised care plan that meets your unique requirements.
What is Support at Home Classification 3?
The Basics of Support at Home Level 3
Support at Home level 3 or classification 3 is a funding category designed for people who have moderate care needs or require moderate levels of care. It provides a larger quarterly budget than classifications 1 and 2, making it possible to access a wider range of in-home services.
This classification suits individuals who need more regular assistance with daily activities and may also require some clinical or allied health support to manage their wellbeing and safety at home.
Understanding Support at Home Classification 3
Support at Home uses a new classification system based on a person’s assessed care needs. Classification 3 is one of the ongoing support classifications under the new program, but it should not be treated as a direct replacement for, or one-to-one equivalent of, a Level 3 Home Care Package.
For people moving from the Home Care Packages Program to Support at Home, funding arrangements depend on their individual transition circumstances and assessment outcome. Rather than focusing on a set number of care hours, the available support will depend on the person’s approved budget, the services they are eligible to receive, provider pricing and how their care plan is structured.
Under Support at Home, ongoing services are funded through quarterly budgets. These budgets are designed to help older people access approved supports in line with their assessed needs, with services planned and delivered over time according to their individual care plan.
How Classification 3 Compares to Other Levels
Support at Home classifications are designed to reflect increasing levels of care needs:
- Classification 1, 2: Lower-level support for occasional or light assistance
- Classification 3: Moderate, regular support across multiple areas of daily living
- Classification 4, 5, 6, 7, 8+: Higher-level support for more complex or ongoing care needs
If your needs change over time, your classification can be reassessed to ensure your funding continues to match your situation.
What Support Can Classification 3 Provide?
The goal of classification 3 is to deliver coordinated, regular support that can cover a combination of personal care, help around the home, assistance with transport and basic clinical or allied health services.
Who is Eligible for Support at Home Classification 3?
Eligibility for classification 3 is determined through the Single Assessment System. An experienced assessor will meet with you to discuss your health, mobility, living circumstances and the support you already have in place. This process ensures your care plan is centred around your specific needs and aspirations.
You may be assessed as eligible for Support at Home level 3 funding if you:
Have moderate care needs that require regular, scheduled assistance.
Need help with a range of daily living tasks such as personal care, household chores,or getting out and about.
Would benefit from some clinical or allied health services in addition to care at home.
Would be unable to manage all aspects of daily life without organised, ongoing support.
If you are approved for the level 3 Support at Home classification level, you will be provided with a quarterly budget to use on approved services that suit your personalised care plan.
How Much Funding Does Classification 3 Provide?
Support at Home classification 3 provides an approved quarterly budget that is based on your assessed care needs. The exact amount may change over time in line with government updates, so it is best to refer to the latest information from My Aged Care or your provider.
Unlike the previous Home Care Package system, Support at Home uses a new classification and budget structure. This means classification 3 should not be viewed as a direct equivalent to a Level 3 Home Care Package. The support you can access will depend on your approved budget, care plan, eligible services, provider pricing and any contributions that may apply.
Your provider can help explain what your classification means in practical terms and how your quarterly budget can be used to arrange services that meet your assessed needs.
Do I Have to Contribute to My Support at Home Services?
You may be asked to contribute to the cost of your services under the Support at Home program. The amount you contribute depends on the type of support you receive, your personal financial circumstances and when you were assessed for the funding. Government funding covers the remainder, ensuring your care remains affordable and accessible.
Service Contributions
Your contribution is based on the services you use:
- Clinical Support: No contribution required. This includes nursing, allied health and medication management.
- Independence Services: Moderate contribution. Covers personal care, home modifications, domestic assistance, transport and respite.
- Everyday Living Services: Higher contribution. Includes shopping, social activities and gardening.
Financial Situation
Your income and assets will influence your contribution level:
- Full Age Pensioner: Minimum contribution
- Part Pensioner / Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holder: Moderate contribution
- Self-Funded Retiree: Higher contribution
For more detailed information on fees and contributions, please visit our pricing page.
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What Services Can I Access
With Classification 3
With a Support at Home level 3 funding, you can access a broader suite of in-home care services designed for moderate care needs. Your plan is built around your goals and preferences, ensuring you receive practical, consistent support. Typical services available at this classification include:
Personal Care
Regular assistance with showering, dressing, grooming and mobility.
Domestic assistance
Scheduled help with cleaning, laundry, shopping and household tasks to ensure your home remains safe and comfortable.
Social Support
Companionship, help to remain involved with community connections or support for recreational activities.
Home and Garden Maintenance
Assistance with minor home maintenance or gardening tasks to keep your environment safe.
Benefits of Self-Managing Your Support at Home Funding
The Support at Home program gives you the choice to self-manage your funding, offering increased control and flexibility. Homecare My Way is dedicated to helping you make the most of your funding so it supports your lifestyle and wellbeing.
1 Greater Choice and Control
Self-management means you make the decisions about the services you receive, who provides your care and the schedule that best suits you. This puts you in the driver’s seat and allows you to build a plan with trusted providers that fits your life.
2 More Value from Your Budget
Self-management allows you to make the most of your funding. Because traditional providers typically apply larger service fees, the hours of care you get can be reduced. With Homecare My Way, you select carers directly and set pay rates you’re comfortable with. That flexibility can mean extra hours of assistance or the option to use more diverse services.
3 Flexibility to Meet Your Needs
Your needs and routine may change over time. Self-management gives you the flexibility to adapt your care arrangements quickly, ensuring you always have the right support in place.
How Homecare My Way Can Help
We understand that government-funded aged care can seem complicated, but you do not have to manage it alone. Homecare My Way offers expert guidance and supportive systems so you can confidently manage your Support at Home classification 3 funding.
Here’s how we support you:
Understanding Your Plan
We explain your classification 3 funding, your budget and the full range of services available to you.
Personalised Care Plan
We work with you to design a plan that reflects your needs and goals for daily living and wellbeing.
Managing Your Budget
Our easy-to-use platform gives you control and transparency over your spending, and we look after the financial administration.
Connecting You with Support Workers
We help you find and hire reliable, qualified support workers, allied health professionals and service providers, always giving you the final choice.
Homecare My Way is committed to ensuring you get the most value from your funding and maintain comfort, independence and peace of mind in your own home.
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“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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