What this means for you
From 1 November 2025, Support at Home will replace the current Home Care Package (HCP) aged care program.
If you’re already receiving a Home Care Package or are approved for one by 31 October 2025, you’ll automatically move into the new program. You don’t need to reapply or be reassessed, unless your needs have changed.
This does not impact people in the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP).
What is changing?
The aim of Support at Home is to improve access to services, products, equipment, and home modifications to help you to remain healthy, active and socially connected to your community.
Along with this, a new Aged Care Act is coming into place which will make the aged care system safer, fairer and more respectful.
What does this mean for me?
On 1 November, if you are currently receiving aged care services, you will continue to receive safe, quality care without interruption.
If you have a Home Care Package, it will automatically transition to the new Support at Home Program.
To read more about Support at Home, visit https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/support-home-program
In addition, the new Aged Care Act will:
- give you the right to make your own decisions about your own life
- let you choose if you want help making decisions, and choose who will give you that help
- have your culture and identity respected
- make it easier to access care through a more streamlined assessment process.
The new Statement of Rights sets out the rights that you have when accessing aged care services, and Aged Care Quality Standards have been strengthened to improve the quality of aged care you receive.
Do I need to do anything?
No, you don’t need to do anything right now. As we transition to Support at Home, Access Health and Community will continue to support you and keep you updated regularly.
We are here to support you
We understand that these changes may raise some questions or concerns. Please be assured that your service will continue and support is available if you experience financial hardship.
If you have any questions, or would like more information, please speak to your Care Manager or contact our team at Access Health and Community on (03) 9810 3000.
