Since launching on 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program has left many families wondering what it means for them and what they’ll actually pay for care.
You’ve probably noticed there’s still a lot of outdated Home Care Package information online, which only adds to the confusion. Pricing is becoming more consistent across Australia, but it still varies depending on your provider, location and the type of service you need.
If you’re trying to work out what’s reasonable or how to plan your budget, read on. We break down current national price ranges, explain what affects your costs and show you what to look for when comparing providers.
How Support at Home pricing works
On 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program replaced the Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care Program. If you’re currently receiving services through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), your program will transition into Support at Home no earlier than 1 July 2027.
One of the biggest changes to the program is how you pay for services. Instead of receiving a fixed monthly package with management fees built in, you now pay for individual services as you use them.
Your costs depend on several factors:
- The type of service and hourly rate charged by your provider.
- The skill level required, such as whether you need a registered nurse or a nursing assistant.
- Provider costs like labour, travel, administration and care management.
Some people are eligible for government subsidies that reduce their personal contributions. The prices listed below are typical rates reported by providers across Australia.
They give you a realistic starting point for budgeting, but your actual costs may differ based on your location and individual circumstances.
This new structure gives you more transparency and control over your funding. You can see exactly what you’re paying for and make informed choices about the services that matter most.
Support at Home price list
The table below shows national median prices for Support at Home services, based on recent data reported by providers.
The median is the middle price so, half of providers charge less and half charge more. The range columns show the lower and upper bounds reported by the majority of providers.
Use these figures as a benchmark when comparing providers and planning your budget.
| Service type | Unit | National median | Lower range | Upper range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing care | Hour | $150 | $125 | $179 |
| Registered nurse | Hour | $160 | $144 | $186 |
| Enrolled nurse | Hour | $140 | $120 | $163 |
| Nursing assistant | Hour | $110 | $92 | $143 |
| Allied health and other therapeutic services | Hour | $195 | $160 | $220 |
| Allied health therapy assistant | Hour | $122 | $105 | $167 |
| Counsellor or psychotherapist | Hour | $208 | $160 | $225 |
| Dietitian or nutritionist | Hour | $200 | $165 | $219 |
| Exercise physiologist | Hour | $190 | $165 | $219 |
| Occupational therapist | Hour | $200 | $174 | $220 |
| Physiotherapist | Hour | $185 | $160 | $210 |
| Podiatrist | Hour | $180 | $153 | $208 |
| Psychologist | Hour | $228 | $210 | $250 |
| Social worker | Hour | $200 | $163 | $238 |
| Speech pathologist | Hour | $208 | $187 | $236 |
| Care management | Hour | $120 | $80 | $150 |
| Restorative care management | Hour | $150 | $120 | $173 |
| Personal care | Hour | $100 | $85 | $115 |
| Social support and community engagement | Hour | $99 | $82 | $110 |
| Therapeutic services for independent living | Hour | $165 | $140 | $220 |
| Remedial masseuse | Hour | $150 | $134 | $206 |
| Respite | Hour | $99 | $85 | $112 |
| Transport | Trip | $70 | $40 | $97 |
| Domestic assistance | Hour | $95 | $83 | $109 |
| Home maintenance and repairs | Hour | $103 | $85 | $120 |
| Meal delivery | Meal | $15 | $11 | $22 |
| Meal preparation | Hour | $97 | $82 | $110 |
* Prices correct as of 23 December 2025
A few things to keep in mind:
The prices shown are for services delivered during standard business hours. If you need care in the evenings, on weekends or public holidays, expect to pay more.
These figures represent a mix of metro, rural and regional providers across Australia. Prices in your local area might be higher or lower depending on where you live.
Most services are charged by the hour, and the prices above reflect a full one-hour service. Your provider may charge different rates for shorter or longer visits.
For additional pricing resources and updates, visit the Department of Health’s Support at Home pricing page.
Consumer Protections for Support at Home Prices
The government has put strong protections in place to ensure all participants are treated fairly and can make informed decisions. These rules mean you can compare providers confidently and avoid unexpected costs.
Your rights include:
- Transparent pricing: Providers must give you clear pricing before you agree to any services.
- Written summaries: You must receive a detailed, written summary of all fees.
- No pressure: You have the right to compare prices between providers without feeling rushed.
- No hidden fees: Providers cannot charge you hidden or unexpected fees.
- Ongoing review: You can review your pricing at any time and ask questions.
- Clear explanations: Providers must explain exactly how they calculate their hourly rates.
- Dispute resolution: If something doesn’t seem right, you can dispute charges and request corrections.
These protections ensure you stay in control of your care budget.
For more detailed information about your rights, read the consumer protections fact sheet.
Why prices can differ between providers
When you compare providers, you might notice that prices for similar services vary. This is completely normal and doesn’t automatically mean one provider is better than another.
Several factors influence what providers charge:
- Staff qualifications and experience: Highly specialised or experienced staff typically cost more.
- Location and travel: Providers in regional or remote areas may charge more to cover travel time and fuel costs.
- Timing: After-hours, weekend and public holiday services usually attract higher rates.
- Provider policies: Some providers have minimum visit hours or additional fees for short visits.
- Type of care: Specialised care services naturally cost more than general personal care or domestic assistance.
Price variations don’t always reflect differences in the quality of services.
A provider charging slightly more might offer benefits like consistent staff, flexible scheduling or additional support services. Focus on finding the right balance between cost and the care that suits your needs.
Support at Home vs Home Care Package pricing
The move from Home Care Packages to Support at Home has changed how pricing works. The old system included package and care management fees that were deducted from your total budget before any care was delivered.
It was complex and often left families unclear about where their money was going.
Support at Home simplifies this by focusing on direct service charges. You pay for the actual care and services you receive, rather than navigating complicated fee structures.
This makes it easier to see exactly what you’re getting for your money and to compare providers on a like-for-like basis.
If you were receiving a Home Care Package before 1 November 2025, your provider must continue delivering services under your existing agreement during the transition. Once Services Australia determines your contribution rate, your provider has 30 days to contact you about your new service agreement, and you then have 90 days to sign and return it.
Learn more: Support at Home vs Home Care Packages
Understanding out-of-pocket costs
While government subsidies cover a significant portion of aged care costs, most participants will have some out-of-pocket expenses to consider. Understanding these contributions early helps you plan your budget and avoid surprises.
Your personal contribution depends on two main factors:
- Your financial situation: The government assesses your income and assets to determine how much you’re expected to contribute.
- The services you choose: Some services may not be fully subsidised, or you might want extras beyond what’s covered.
When planning your budget, factor in both the regular service costs shown in the price list above and any additional expenses like equipment, home modifications or services not fully covered by your funding.
Keep in mind that contribution rules can be complex, so it’s worth getting personalised advice about what you’ll actually pay.
If you’re struggling to meet your contributions, financial hardship assistance is available. Providers must offer flexible payment arrangements, reduced fees or other support options if you can’t afford your full contribution. Speak to your provider or contact My Aged Care to discuss hardship assistance options.
What to look for when comparing providers
Choosing the right provider involves more than just finding the lowest price. You want someone who offers good value, reliable service and care that truly fits your needs.
When comparing your options, consider:
- Services offered: Make sure they can deliver the specific help you need, whether that’s personal care, domestic tasks, transport or specialised support.
- Staff qualifications and consistency: Ask about training, experience and whether you’ll see the same care workers at each visit.
- Clear pricing: Look for providers who explain their hourly rates, travel fees and any extra charges upfront without hidden surprises.
- Flexibility: Can they work around your schedule and adjust services as your needs change?
- Communication: Do they keep you and your family informed with regular updates about care and any changes?
- Cultural fit: If language or cultural preferences matter to you, check whether they can match you with suitable carers.
- Safety and quality: Confirm they meet government standards, conduct proper staff checks and have clear processes for handling concerns.
Don’t hesitate to ask providers detailed questions about their pricing, cancellation policies and how they handle staff changes or emergencies. A good provider will be happy to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your choice.
Learn more: How to choose a Support at Home Provider
How Aged Care Decisions Can Help
Researching providers, comparing prices and checking availability takes time, often more time than families can spare when they need help quickly. That’s where Aged Care Decisions can make a real difference.
Our 100% free and independent service does the work for you. We help families compare providers quickly, saving you hours of phone calls and online research.
Because we’re independent, we’re not tied to any particular provider, and our advice is tailored to your specific needs and budget.
The process is simple and involves no cost and no pressure. You tell us what you need, and we match you with suitable providers in your area who have current availability
Ready to find the right support at home?
