Age Care Reform
What the Australian Government’s new aged care reform, Support at Home, means for you.
Support at Home program overview
Support at Home is a new Australian Government program launching on 1 November 2025, aimed at improving the delivery of in-home aged care. It will replace the current Home Care Packages (HCP) program and is designed to help older Australians remain independent in their homes for longer.
At MSWA, we’re committed to keeping you informed and supported throughout this transition, ensuring you continue to receive the care and services you need.
What will the Support at Home program include?
- Eight support levels, with funding of up to $78,000 per year, plus two short-term care pathways.*
- Quarterly budgets will replace annual budgets, offering more flexibility and responsiveness.
- A clear and transparent service list, so you’ll know exactly what support is available to you.
- Price caps on services will be introduced from approximately late 2026. Until then, providers will continue to set their own prices.
- A 10% care management fees, ensuring you receive trusted, high-quality care.
What’s different about the Support at Home program?
The Support at Home program introduces several key changes to improve how in-home aged care is delivered. Unlike the current Home Care Package program, it provides quarterly budgets based on your assessed support level, making it easier to manage your care needs throughout the year. This funding is distributed in four quarterly payments and covers a wide range of services.
Key differences include:
- Eight levels of ongoing support & two short-term pathways
A more tailored approach to care, with funding aligned to your specific needs. - Upfront funding for home modifications and assistive technology
You won’t need to save from your budget - these services will be funded separately and in advance. - Care management fees
10% of your funding will go toward care management, ensuring you receive consistent support from a service coordinator or Care Partner. - Participant contributions based on services used
Under Support at Home, you’ll only contribute toward the services you actually receive. Contributions are calculated per hour (or unit of service) as a percentage of the service cost.
Contribution rates will be based on:
- Type of service
For example, clinical services will have lower contribution rates than domestic assistance or gardening. - Your financial situation
Including your age pension status, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, and means assessment.
We’re committed to supporting you through these changes, ensuring you continue to receive the right assistance to thrive at home and stay connected to your community.
* Support levels and funding amounts, including the availability of short-term care pathways, are subject to change based on the ongoing rollout and updates from the government. Please refer to official government sources for the most current information.
Frequently asked questions
Why is in-home care changing?
In-home care is changing to create a simpler, more flexible, and person-centred system that better supports older Australians to live independently at home. These reforms respond to recommendations from the Aged Care Royal Commission and aim to improve transparency, quality, and access to services.
Who will be affected by this change?
Anyone currently receiving services under the Home Care Package (HCP) or Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs will transition to Support at Home. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) will also transition, but no earlier than 2027.
When do the changes take effect?
The Support at Home program will take effect from 1 November 2025. While the system is changing, it is expected to deliver more comprehensive, high-quality care to recipients. These reforms aim to enhance the level of support available to you at home.
For more information, visit the Department of Health’s website here.
Can I stay with MSWA as my current provider?
Yes. You can continue receiving services from MSWA as we are approved under the new program.
What are the classifications under Support at Home, and will I need to be reassessed?
The Support at Home program includes eight levels of support based on your care needs, plus short-term care options.
If you're already receiving a Home Care Package or are on the waitlist, you won’t need to be reassessed - you’ll automatically transition to the new system. However, if your care needs have changed, you can contact My Aged Care to request a reassessment.
What services will be available under the new program?
A defined service list will outline what is and isn’t included, providing greater clarity and consistency across providers.
Will there be price controls?
Yes. Price caps on services will be introduced from around late-2026. Until then, providers can continue to set their own prices.
Where can I get more information or help?
You can contact My Aged Care at 1800 200 422, visit myagedcare.gov.au, or speak with an Aged Care Specialist Officer at select Services Australia centres.
