Navigating Aged Care Reforms: The Support at Home Scheme

The landscape of aged care in Australia is undergoing significant reforms to create a more streamlined and effective system for older Australians. These changes are being implemented in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which highlighted the need for improvements in the quality and accessibility of aged care services. A key component of these reforms is the transition from the current Home Care Packages (HCP) and Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) to the new Support at Home scheme. 

What are My Aged Care Packages?

The Australian Government offers two main types of in-home support for older adults aged 65 years and over (50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people), the Home Care Packages (HCP) and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).

Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)

Provides essential assistance for seniors to live independently in their own homes. This program offers basic services to help with daily tasks and maintain your wellbeing.

Home Care Packages (HCP)

Deliver personalised and coordinated care for individuals with more complex ageing-related needs. This program is designed to help you live safely and independently at home for as long as it is suitable for you. Home Care Packages offer a range of services to support you with daily activities that you may now find difficult to manage on your own.

About the Support at Home Program

The Support at Home program is designed to consolidate several existing in-home care programs into a simpler, fairer system. The primary goal is to improve access to services, equipment, and home modifications, thereby helping older Australians remain healthy, active, and socially connected to their communities.



Key features of the Support at Home program include:

Simplified Access

A more straightforward process for obtaining necessary services and support.

Improved Service Delivery

Enhanced availability and quality of services to better meet the needs of older Australians.

Comprehensive Support

Integration of various care services to ensure holistic support for individuals.

Impact on Older Australians

The transition to the Support at Home program is designed to bring several benefits to older Australians, including:

Enhanced Quality of Care

By integrating multiple care services into a single program, the quality and consistency of care are expected to improve.

Easier Access to Services

Simplified processes and a single assessment system will make it easier for older Australians to access the support they need.

Better Support for Staying at Home

Increased availability of equipment, home modifications, and other services will help more older Australians remain in their homes for longer, promoting independence and well-being.

There will be distinct service categories, including: 

1. Independence at home
2. Social connections
3. Personal care
4. Health and specialised support
5. Care management
6. Digital technologies, equipment, and home modifications
7. Respite care

Each category will contain different service types and subcategories.

Timeline for Transition

The transition to the Support at Home program will occur in phases to ensure a smooth changeover for all stakeholders:

From 1 July 2025 - The Support at Home program will replace the existing Home Care Packages (HCP) Program and the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme.

From 1 July 2027 - The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) will transition to the new Support at Home program.

This staged approach allows HCP and STRC providers to prepare adequately for the transition and ensures CHSP providers have sufficient time to adjust their business systems and payment arrangements. This careful planning aims to minimise disruptions for clients and ensure a seamless transition to the new system.

The Support at Home Program will replace the following aged care programs:

1. Home Care Packages (HCP)
2. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
3. The Short-Term Restorative Care Programme (STRC)
4. Residential respite programs

All these programs will merge into the Support at Home Program.

Conclusion

The shift from Home Care Packages and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme to the new Support at Home scheme represents a significant advancement in aged care in Australia. These reforms aim to create a more efficient, accessible, and supportive system for older Australians, ensuring they receive the high-quality care they deserve. As these changes roll out, staying informed and prepared will be crucial for both service providers and recipients. For more detailed information and updates, be sure to visit official government websites and resources dedicated to aged care reform.

As a My Aged Care approved provider, FOCUS Connect is committed to supporting older adults in Campbelltown, South West Sydney, and Northern Sydney to confidently live independently in their own homes. We offer a variety of home care and community access services for participants of the My Aged Care Home Care Packages and Commonwealth Home Support Programme. If you or a loved one could benefit from our support please reach out to us today, visit our website or contact us directly on 02 4627 1188.