Posted in Age care, Caring Hands, Community Care, Support at Home

This update is shared by our caring hands to support you as we transition to Support at Home.

Southcare welcomes the Australian Government’s announcement to release 20,000 additional Home Care Packages ahead of the new aged care Support at Home program. This important step highlights a commitment to aged care at home support, giving more older Australians the chance to receive help sooner while easing the pressure of long waitlists.

Southcare CEO Enda Fahy said when it comes to supporting older Australians, every day makes a difference.
“The demand for in home aged care is ongoing, and while this release is very welcome, we know the need for home care help for seniors will always be present.”

Between now and 31 October 2025, 20,000 new packages will be rolled out, with a further 20,000 available from November through to December 2025. An additional 43,000 packages from the Government’s original 83,000 commitment will follow in early 2026.

Why aged care matters for older Australians

Better access to care

Many people have waited months for an approved package. By adding more places now, the Government is ensuring older Australians can access in home care sooner and receive the tailored support they need to live independently.

Smoother transition to the Support at Home program

Launching on 1 November 2025, the new Support at Home program aged care model will replace current Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care programs. This reform will streamline services into a more flexible and equitable system, bridging gaps in access to aged home care.

What is the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home program is a major reform of Australia’s aged care system, designed to provide simpler, fairer and more flexible at home support care. Key features include:

  • Replacing current Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) from 1 November 2025, with the Commonwealth Home Support Programme transitioning in 2027.
  • Introducing eight tailored support levels (replacing the current four tiers) for more personalised and needs-based aged care at home support.
  • Quarterly budgets with rollover options, capped care management fees, and simpler assessments.
  • Dedicated short-term care pathways such as Restorative and End-of-Life Care, plus expanded support for assistive technology and home modifications.

This reform empowers seniors to live safely and independently in their own homes, with at home support that adapts to individual needs.

Need more support about Support at Home?

Southcare is ready and supportive of these changes as they put the customer at the forefront of care and better define what good home care means.

The Support at Home program has lots of information and new information is coming all the time, which often brings more questions! We’re committed to walking alongside you through these changes.

Have a question about Support at Home? Not sure how it will affect you or your loved one? Contact us today — we’d love to chat.

Southcare is ready and supportive of these changes as they put the customer at the forefront of care and better define what good home care means.  

The Support at Home program has lots of information and new information is coming all the time, which often brings more questions!   Understanding the benefits of the new Support at Home Program will help individuals, families, and communities plan ahead — and make the most of the support available.  

And we are here to support you, so please reach out if you need help.

 

 

Posted in Age care, Caring Hands, Community Care, Support at Home