Support at Home is the Australian Government’s program that helps older Australians live independently in their own homes for longer. It provides funding for services and support that make everyday life easier and safer.
The program offers a wide range of help, from assistance with daily tasks like cleaning and meal preparation, through to clinical care such as nursing and physiotherapy.
Professional health services including nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and medication management.
Help with personal care like showering, dressing, and mobility support to keep you independent.
Assistance with household tasks such as cleaning, laundry, shopping, meal preparation, gardening, and transport.
If you were receiving a Home Care Package, it automatically transitioned to Support at Home on 1 November 2025. You don't need to do anything, and your services continue.
there are now eight classification levels, ranging from $11,000 to $78,000 per year. This means better support tailored to your specific needs.
Restorative Care, End-of-life-pathway and assistive technology and home modifications
A new Statement of Rights outlines what you can expect from aged care services, including respect, safety, and the right to speak up without fear.
A Single Assessment System makes it easier to get assessed and access the support you need.
You need to be 65 years or older (or 50 years or older if you're an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person) and need help with everyday tasks or care.
Call 1800 200 422 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm, Saturday 10am to 2pm) or apply online at www.myagedcare.gov.au.
A trained assessor (usually a nurse or health professional) will visit you at home. They'll talk with you about your daily activities and what support would help you most. The assessment usually takes 1-3 hours.
Tip: You can have a family member or friend with you during the assessment.
If you're approved, you'll receive a letter with:
Your dedication level and budget amount
A list of approved services
A unique referral code
Information about costs and contributions.
Wait times vary depending on demand, typically 3-6 months but can be up to 12 months. You'll be placed on a priority list based on your needs.
If you need urgent care, let My Aged Care know - your application may be fast-tracked.
When your funding is available, you can choose a registered aged care provider like Elsy Group. You can find providers by:
Using the Find a Provider tool on the My Aged Care website.
Calling My Aged Care for recommendations
Contacting providers directly, like Elsy Group.
Once you've chosen your provider, you'll sign a service agreement and your care begins. You have 56 days to enter into an agreement after funding is allocated.
Some services are free, while others require a contribution. What you pay depends on your income and assets, assessed by Services Australia (Centrelink).
You can use the Support at Home fee estimator on the My Aged Care website to get an idea of your costs.
