From 1 November 2025, the Australian Government will introduce the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme as part of the new Support at Home program, which will replace the current Home Care Packages (HCP) Program.
The AT-HM Scheme is designed to provide older Australians with better access to essential assistive technology and home modifications – without the need to save up from quarterly budgets – helping them to live safely, independently, and with greater dignity in their own homes.
What is the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme?
The AT-HM Scheme is a lifetime funding program offering separate funding, in addition to participants’ Support at Home quarterly service budgets, for two key categories:
- Assistive Technology (AT): Items or equipment that help people perform tasks more easily or regain independence in daily living.
- Home Modifications (HM): Physical changes to the home to enhance safety, accessibility, and mobility.
Eligibility and funding are based on individual assessments conducted as part of the Support at Home intake process. Participants may be approved for:
- Assistive technology only
- Home modifications only
- Or both, depending on assessed needs
After an assessment, and if approved, Support at Home participants will be allocated an AT-HM funding tier for 12 months (in most instances) to use for assistive technology or home modification supports. Under Support at Home, participants may be required to contribute towards the cost of their assistive technology or home modifications.
Aged Care Decisions can help you understand which AT-HM support options best meet your needs and care goals and assist you in organising an assessment.
How many funding tiers are there for the AT-HM Scheme?
The Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme has three funding tiers, each defined by a maximum funding amount and the level of assessment required.
- Tier 1: Low-Cost Supports – Tier 1 funds up to $500 per year, and covers low-cost, low-risk items that do not require professional assessment or complex approvals. These items are typically off-the-shelf and easy to replace.
- Tier 2: Medium-cost supports – Tier 2 funds up to $2,000 per year, applies to assistive technology or minor home modifications that are more specialised and may affect safety or mobility. These supports usually require evidence, such as a clinical recommendation or supplier quote.
- Tier 3: High-cost or complex supports – Tier 3 funds up to $15,000 per year, and covers high-cost or high-risk assistive technology and major home modifications. These supports involve permanent changes or complex equipment and require comprehensive assessments and formal approval.
Each tier is based on the cost, complexity, and risk level of the assistive technology or home modification being funded. The higher the tier, the more detailed the assessment and approval process.
What Assistive Technology Is Included in the AT-HM Scheme?
Assistive technology under the AT-HM Scheme includes equipment and devices that support safety, mobility, self-care, and independent living at home. These supports may be funded across different AT-HM tiers, depending on cost and complexity.
Common types of assistive technology funded under the AT-HM scheme include:
Mobility and transfer aids
- Walking sticks and frames
- Manual and powered wheelchairs
- Mobility scooters
- Transfer boards and hoists
Toileting and continence supports
- Bedpans and commodes
- Raised toilet seats
- Incontinence alarms and aids
Bathing and shower equipment
- Shower chairs and stools
- Bath boards and benches
- Non-slip mats and grab rails
Cognitive and communication aids
- Medication reminders
- Memory support devices
- Visual or auditory alert systems
Personal safety and fall-prevention items
- Personal alarms and alert buttons
- Anti-slip footwear
- Protective wear and body supports
Funding Tiers for Assistive Technology
Tier | Funding Amount |
Low | Under $500
|
Medium | Up to $2,000
|
High | Up to $15,000* |
* In some cases, participants may access equipment exceeding $15,000 with a valid prescription from a qualified health professional.
The funding also covers the cost of health professional prescriptions and wraparound services to ensure items are used safely and effectively.
What Home Modifications are Included in the AT-HM Scheme?
The Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme covers practical changes to a person’s home that improve safety, mobility, and independence. These modifications are needs-based and must be directly linked to a person’s functional limitations.
Common types of home modifications funded under the AT-HM scheme include: technology include:
Bathroom modifications
- Grab rails in showers, toilets, and bathrooms
- Non-slip flooring or coatings
- Step-free or level-access showers
- Shower chairs and wall-mounted seats
- Raised or modified toilets
Access and entry modifications
- Ramps for steps or uneven thresholds
- Handrails along stairs or walkways
- Widened doorways for walking aids or wheelchairs
- Threshold ramps for sliding or front doors
Internal mobility modifications
- Stair lifts
- Platform lifts (where appropriate)
- Internal handrails along corridors
- Adjusted floor surfaces to reduce trip risk
Kitchen and living area changes
- Lowered benches or work surfaces
- Modified cupboards and storage for easier reach
- Lever-style taps and handles
- Repositioned appliances for safer access
Bedroom and personal safety supports
- Bed rails
- Transfer poles
- Lighting upgrades to reduce fall risk
- Alert systems connected to home safety equipment
Funding Tiers for Home Modifications
| Tier | Funding Amount |
| Low | Under $500
|
| Medium | Up to $2,000
|
| High | Up to $15,000* |
As with assistive technology, home modifications must be prescribed by a qualified health professional, such as an occupational therapist.
How can I access the AT-HM Scheme?
For New Participants
During your aged care assessment for the Support at Home program, your need for assistive technology or home modifications will be evaluated. If approved, your funding will be included in your support plan.
For Existing HCP Participants
If you’re transitioning from the Home Care Packages (HCP) Program, you should discuss your AT-HM needs with your provider. Any unspent HCP funds must be used first before accessing new AT-HM scheme funding.
How Equipment is Sourced
Your Support at Home provider will coordinate the sourcing and delivery of approved items. They will also arrange any necessary assessments for higher-risk or prescribed products.
Our custom software can take your care needs, location, budget, and personal preferences and match you with available home care providers in your area. We can then send you a tailored options report that you can use to compare different home care providers quickly and easily.
What’s on the AT-HM List?
The AT-HM List outlines which products and services are covered and classifies them based on usage safety:
- Low Risk: Simple items requiring no prescription (e.g., walking stick)
- Under Advice: Items that benefit from professional input for correct selection or use
- Prescribed: High-cost or complex equipment requiring assessment by a health professional
The list follows the AS/NZS ISO 9999:2023 classification standard and is reviewed annually to include emerging technologies and align with aged care sector developments.
What’s Not Covered Under the AT-HM Scheme?
The AT-HM Scheme does not cover:
- Items funded by other government services (e.g., hearing aids under the HSP)
- Household or discretionary items
- Equipment for workplace or public transport use
- Items intended for children
In specific circumstances, exceptions may apply, but these will require individual review and justification.
The AT Loans Scheme
A National Assistive Technology Loans Scheme is also in development. It will allow eligible participants to borrow assistive technology rather than purchasing it, where appropriate. This helps:
- Reduce costs
- Improve access in local areas
- Support equipment changes as needs evolve
The Australian Government are planning a staged implementation of the AT Loans scheme. Start dates will vary depending on the progress in each state and territory. We will provide more information about the AT Loans scheme as it becomes available.
Cost Contributions Under the AT-HM Scheme
Participants may be asked to make a modest contribution toward the cost of assistive technology or home modifications. However, costs for clinical assessments, prescriptions, and wraparound services are fully covered by the government.
Learn more: Understanding Support at Home Contributions and Fees
How Long is Funding Available?
AT-HM funds are valid for 12 months, and unused funds do not roll over. In special cases, such as progressive conditions or complex modifications, extensions may be granted. Participants can also be reassessed if needs change after funding expires.
The AT-HM Scheme under the Support at Home program represents a major step forward in supporting older Australians to live independently and safely at home. Not to mention, strengthens the quality standards stipulated for aged care.
With dedicated funding, streamlined access, and national consistency, the scheme empowers individuals to live with dignity, while reducing unnecessary barriers to vital supports.
For more information, including access to the full AT-HM List, click here.
With the AT-HM Scheme now part of the Support at Home program, older Australians have more ways to stay safe, independent, and comfortable in their own homes. But accessing these supports — and finding providers who can deliver them — can still be a challenge.
That’s where we can help.
Aged Care Decisions connects you with trusted home care providers who are ready to help you access the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications you need. Whether it’s mobility equipment, home safety upgrades, or everyday supports, we make sure you’re connected with the right people who can get it done.
✔ Find providers who understand and deliver AT-HM solutions.
✔ Compare local home care services that offer personalised support.
✔ Save time — no chasing quotes, no endless research.
✔ Get expert help understanding your options — all at no cost to you.
If you’re looking to stay at home safely with the right equipment and services, the right provider makes all the difference.
Start now — we’ll match you with trusted providers who can help you access the AT-HM Scheme and build a support plan that works for you.
