Deciding if Support at Home is right for you or someone close to you can be overwhelming. Many families want to keep a loved one safe and independent at home but are unsure whether they qualify for government-funded help, or where to even start.
Support at Home is designed to help older Australians stay in their own homes for as long as possible with the right level of support. Understanding your eligibility is the first step toward accessing care that fits your needs.
From 1 November 2025, the Support at Home Program replaced the Home Care Package system, bringing a simpler and more flexible way to access in-home aged care services across Australia.
Am I eligible for Support at Home?
You are usually eligible for the Support at Home Program if:
- You are aged 65 years or older (or 50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people)
- You are finding everyday tasks harder due to age or health
- You need support to stay living independently at home
- You live at home (not in residential aged care)
- You are an Australian citizen or permanent resident
If you think you or a loved one fits these criteria, the next step is to request an assessment through My Aged Care. This assessment confirms eligibility and the level of help you can access. You can contact My Aged Care online or by calling 1800 200 422.
What if I already have a Home Care Package?
If you already have a Home Care Package, you will automatically transition into Support at Home as either a grandfathered participant or a transitional participant. Your care continues, and you do not need to start again.
Grandfathered vs transitional participants
| Type | Who this applies to | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| Grandfathered participant | Approved for a Home Care Package on or before 12 September 2024 | Funding level stays the same; covered by the “no worse off” principle; no new fees if you previously paid none |
| Transitional participant | Approved for a Home Care Package between 12 Sep 2024 and 1 Nov 2025 months | Transitioned automatically; may pay some fees depending on income/assets; funding matches package level |
Both groups can access any service on the Support at Home service list, provided it meets their assessed needs. The new program uses a quarterly budget, so planning how and when to use funds is important.
If you’re unsure which category applies to you, you can read this article to find out where you fit in Support at Home.
What about CHSP recipients?
The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will merge with Support at Home no earlier than 1 July 2027. Until then, there will be no changes to the way your home care services are funded and delivered.
When should I request a Support at Home assessment?
You should consider requesting a Support at Home assessment if you or someone you care for:
- Is finding it harder to manage everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, shopping or laundry
- Needs help with personal care like showering, dressing or getting in and out of bed
- Has recently had a fall, hospital stay or noticeable change in health or mobility
- Seems more forgetful, confused or anxious about being home alone
- Feels isolated or is struggling to get to appointments and social activities without help
- Has a long-term illness or disability that is starting to affect daily life
If any of these examples sound familiar, it’s worth requesting an assessment. Early action can help you or your loved one stay safe and independent at home for longer.
Start comparing providers rightaway with a tailored report sent to you within 20 minutes. Get started here.
Next steps based on your eligibility
Every person’s situation is different, but these examples can help you decide what to do next.
Likely eligible now
You need regular help with daily tasks or have had a recent health event (for example, falls, hospital stays or increased frailty).
Next steps:
- Request a Support at Home assessment through My Aged Care
- Make a list of tasks you struggle with most
- Start thinking about what you want from a provider (location, services offered, costs and fees)
Starting to need more help
You are mostly independent, but things are getting harder, or your carer is feeling stretched.
Next steps:
- Track changes in mobility, memory and mood
- Speak with your GP about current risks and whether to request an assessment
- Consider entry-level support through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) for services like transport, social support or light in-home help
Not yet eligible, but planning ahead
You are managing well with occasional help from family, friends or paid services.
Next steps:
- Use self-funded services like cleaners, gardeners or meal services to ease pressure
- Stay connected to social and community activities to maintain strength and wellbeing
- Keep medical information organised so you can move quickly if your needs change.
- Begin conversations with family or carers about future care plans and revisit the possibility of Support at Home within 6 to 12 months
How do I apply for Support at Home?
You can request a Support at Home assessment in 3 different ways:
● Online via the My Aged Care website
● By calling My Aged Care on 1800 200 422
● Through a GP, nurse or hospital social worker who can refer you
You’ll be asked questions about your health, mobility, memory, current supports and any recent changes at home.
Learn more: How to Apply for Support at Home – A Step-by-Step Guide
How is Support at Home eligibility assessed?
A Support at Home assessment typically takes place in your home and lasts between 1 and 3 hours. An assessor will:
- Ask about your daily routine and which tasks are becoming difficult
- Look at your home environment and any falls or safety risks
- Consider your physical and mental health, including medications and recent events
- Discuss any help you already receive from family, friends or private services
- Talk through your goals, such as staying independent, remaining at home, or keeping connected to your community
After the assessment, you will receive a Notice of Decision explaining whether you are eligible, and a Support at Home plan outlining your approved services, budget and Support at Home classification.
How long will it take to get an assessment?
Depending on clinical need and urgency, an assessment can sometimes be completed within a week. However, there is a well-reported backlog, with some families experiencing wait times of several months.
The key takeaway is that if you believe you or your loved one are eligible, it’s important to contact My Aged Care immediately to start the assessment process and secure support as soon as possible.
How long does Support at Home approval take?
The typical wait time from assessment to final approval is around 3–6 months, but in some instances, it can take up to 12 months. Urgent cases, such as after a hospital stay or serious fall, may be prioritised.
What can I do while I wait for a Support at Home package?
While you’re waiting for your assessment or services to start, you can:
- Keep a simple diary of daily challenges, falls or missed medications
- Talk to your GP about short-term strategies or allied health support
- Explore local council or community services for social groups, transport or basic help
- Read about Support at Home classifications
- Start planning what you can spend your Support at Home package on
Taking these steps now can make it easier to use your funding effectively once it becomes available.
How do I find a Support at Home provider?
Finding the right provider can be time-consuming and confusing, especially when you’re already under pressure.
Aged Care Decisions helps thousands of Australian families each year by:
- Matching your care needs, budget, location and preferences with available providers
- Creating a personalised shortlist so you can compare options quickly
- Supporting you through the decision and onboarding process
Our service is 100% free, 100% independent and 100% personal.
If you’re exploring Support at Home eligibility, these resources may also help:
