HOME CARE
Support at Home Funding in Australia
It’s normal to want to remain in the home you know and love. Familiar routines matter and so does independence. Support at home funding in Australia makes this possible, providing practical support that fits around your everyday life.
In Australia, many services are supported through government funded support at home services.
These programs assist with daily tasks, personal care and health support so people can continue living safely and comfortably at home.
The first step towards accessing funding is an assessment through My Aged Care. This assessment paints a clear picture of your health, mobility and daily activities, helping to identify the level of care that’s right for you.
Understanding Support at Home Funding in Australia
Funding options vary. Some people receive government funded support at home, whilst others combine this with privately funded care at home. The right pathway depends on eligibility, needs and personal preference.
Southern Cross Care is there for you with every step. We help you prepare for your support at home assessment, make sense of funding for support at home programs and organise support once services are approved. Our aim is always the same; to make the process clearer and to take the stress out of accessing support at home.If you are starting to explore the system, our home care guide provides a comprehensive understanding of aged care, including how support works and what to expect.
Keep Your Routine, Community and Independence
Access the right level of support
Assessments help match services to your individual needs. This can range anywhere from light household help or more regular personal and clinical care.
Stay independent for longer
Government funded support at home services enable people to remain in the homes they know and love, keeping the routines and community connections that matter most.
Peace of mind
Care is carefully coordinated and reviewed regularly. You know what support is coming and who will provide it.
Support for families
Professional guidance takes away pressure on family members and carers. We help to keep relationships focused on precious time together, not the daily care tasks.
Flexible funding options
Support may include a mix of government funded support at home, privately funded home care if additional assistance is needed.
How The Process Works
Step 1. Register with My Aged Care
You begin by contacting My Aged Care online or by phone. This marks the beginning of your application for home care funding in Australia.
Step 2. Assessment
A professionally qualified assessor, arranged through My Aged Care, visits your home to better understand your daily routine, mobility and health needs. You can learn more about preparing for your support at home assessment before the visit.
Step 3. Funding Outcome
Based on the assessment, you may be approved for:
- Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)
- Support at Home program(as of 1 November 2025)
- Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM)
Many people at this stage receive funding for support at home programs, which can be used for ongoing coordinated support.
Step 4. Pick the Right Provider
Select an approved provider such as Southern Cross Care to deliver your support at home programs. We organise services and develop a plan around your individual goals and preferences.
Step 5. Ongoing Review
Needs can change over time. Funding and services are constantly reviewed so your support continues to give you exactly what you need.
The Southern Cross Care Difference
- Support when you need it most: Southern Cross Care has supported Australians for decades, with a practical, compassionate care and assessment process.
- Personalised care planning: Your care plan is a reflection of your routines and preferences. Support should fit naturally into your life, helping you continue the things that matter to you..
- Meaningful outcomes: With the right combination of government funded home care services and self-funded support at home when required, you can feel more confident about what the future holds.
- Qualified and compassionate teams: Compassionate care is delivered by trained support workers, nurses and allied health professionals where needed. Relationships and continuity matter.
What Support at Home Funding Can Cover
Understanding what support is included gives you what you need to plan for your future. Support at home funding is there to assist with everyday living and safety at home, while still respecting your personal routines and preferences. Your assessment and approved funding level determines the exact services you receive. We talk through each item with you, meaning there are no surprises along the way.
Typically included:
- Personal care and hygiene support
- Domestic assistance and meal preparation
- Transport and social support
- Clinical care such as nursing when approved
- Assistive technology and home modifications
May not be included or may involve additional costs
- Lifestyle or non-essential services
- Extra hours beyond approved funding
- Additional services arranged through self-funded home care
Take the First Step Towards Your Independence
Understanding support at home funding in Australia can feel complex when you first start out. The important part is that you don’t have to manage it alone.
Southern Cross Care is there to help you understand your government funded support at home services. Our team will lead you through assessments and approvals before exploring your privately funded support at home options.
Contact Southern Cross Care today to talk through your home care funding options. Beginning the process supports stronger health, maintains independence and enables you to feel more comfortable in daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What government funded support at home services are available?
Programs may include the Commonwealth Home Support Program, Support at Home, and assistive technology or home modifications following assessment. We’re there to talk through each option with you, so the process always feels clear and manageable.
How long does the assessment process take?
Timeframes are dependent on demand and urgency. We will help you understand what usually happens next and how to prepare, so you feel supported throughout your journey.
What services can I access after my assessment?
Services may include personal care, household assistance, transport, nursing care and social support depending on your approved funding.
Can I choose my support at home provider?
Yes. You are free to choose the provider you feel most comfortable with, and you can change providers later if your needs or preferences change.
What if I need more support than my funding covers?
Additional assistance can be arranged through self-funded support at home alongside your funded support.
Will I need reassessments?
Sometimes needs change over time. Reviews are an essential way to ensure your support continues to match your situation and you are receiving the right level of care.