HOME CARE
Support at Home in Australia
We know how much it means to remain in your own home as you grow older. Home holds memories, routines and a sense of belonging that’s deeply personal. Support at home in Australia eases this choice by bringing practical assistance and care into everyday life.
Families often come to us with the simple questions first.
How do I access support at home services? How do I get support at home from a provider that’s right for me? The process can feel unfamiliar at first, but we’re here to provide a practical guide that explains it all.
Whether you need a small amount of help or more regular support, our team is here to assist with everyday tasks so you can continue doing the things you love.
How to Live a Life with Full Support
Support at home provides services delivered in the comfort in the place you know best. It helps people live safely and comfortably while maintaining independence and connection to their community.
Support isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Some people need occasional help, others require regular assistance with health or daily tasks. Personalised support matters because every person’s health, family situation and preferences are unique to them. We love the work we do, and we take great care in matching you with the best people for your needs.
Support at Home is There For:
- older people who want to remain in their home
- individuals recovering after illness or hospital stays
- anyone managing long-term health conditions
- family carers in need of reliable support
Many families begin exploring support while also wondering whether an older person needs to move into a care home. In reality, care at home is often the first step. It allows people to remain in familiar surroundings while receiving appropriate assistance.
Three Options to Fund Support at Home
Support at home is made possible through several pathways within Australia’s aged care system. After an assessment through My Aged Care, funding and services are perfectly matched to you or your loved ones own individual needs and circumstances.
- For individuals needing occasional assistance, the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) provides entry-level support with difficult-to-manage everyday activities.
- If more regular or coordinated support is needed, a government funded Support at Home package offers higher levels of care. This covers any assistance for more complex needs so you can continue living safely at home.
- Some people also choose private or self-funded care. This allows flexible support, either alongside funded services or on its own, depending on personal preference.
Whichever pathway applies, a provider works with you to organise and deliver services that prioritise your routines, goals and daily life.
Finding the Right Support at Home Program
Level 1. Basic support needs
This level suits people who are mostly independent but need occasional help around the home. Support often spans cleaning, basic meal preparation and welfare checks to make sure you have the support you need.
Level 2. Low-level support needs
Level 2 is for those needing a little more regular help. You might receive assistance with transport to appointments, light household tasks and medication reminders to keep daily routines on track.
Level 3. Moderate support needs
This level provides more consistent help with everyday activities. Services can range from basic personal care, help with meals and visits from allied health professionals such as occupational therapists.
Level 4. Higher support needs
Designed for people who require ongoing assistance to remain safely at home. Support may include assistance with showering, mobility aids and coordinated health services.
Level 5. Complex daily care
More structured care begins at this level. It can include dementia care, continence support and regular coordination of services to manage any changing health needs.
Level 6. Intensive daily support
Daily personal care becomes more involved. Nursing support, wound care and behaviour support services are there to help manage ongoing medical conditions at home.
Level 7. Advanced clinical and respite care
Support increases to cover more complex care requirements. This may cover specialised nursing care, access to mobility equipment and respite care to give family carers a break.
Level 8. Very high care needs
The highest level of support for people who need significant daily assistance. These services may include overnight care, hoist transfers and intensive in-home support so an individual can continue living in their own home, rather than moving into residential care.Your eligibility comes down to your My Aged Care assessment. You can learn more about preparing for your support at home assessment so you know what to expect.
Individual Support Where It’s Needed Most
Services vary depending on individual circumstances and approved funding. Common supports include:
- personal care and hygiene assistance
- help with dressing and mobility
- cleaning and household tasks
- meal preparation and nutrition support
- transport to appointments and community activities
- social visits and companionship
- nursing and medication management when required
- allied health services such as physiotherapy
- home safety changes and assistive technology
Services are flexible and can change over time as needs evolve.
The Right Support at Home Provider for You
Choosing a provider is a decision that’s deeply personal. Your provider should be government approved and experienced in support at home that’s compassionate. A good provider will also go into detail about pricing so you understand what’s included and what isn’t.
Always take time to think about the range of services and ask how care workers are matched. Consistency ensures you have friendly and trusted companions by your side, so you can feel confident and comfortable while still enjoying your life.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Families often begin looking for care at home during uncertain times. Decisions may feel urgent, which can make the process harder and more stressful than it should.
One common difficulty is choosing the first available service without enough information. Another is focusing only on price. Cost is always an important factor, but reliability, communication and genuine care matter just as much.
Another issue is waiting until a crisis occurs before seeking out the right support. Early planning allows people to stay at home safely for longer and creates space for families to fully consider every option.The best approach is to speak with providers, ask for explanations in plain language and make sure services are clear before care begins. Move forward towards a life that’s dignified, comfortable and connected.
Looking Ahead to the Future of Home Care
Australia’s support at home is evolving. In November 2025, the Support at Home program replaced the home care structure. These changes mean the help you need is even easier to access.
Funding categories are clearer and more flexible. Services such as assistive technology and home modifications are more accessible.
The aim is to take the stress out of the process. It’s never an easy time making the transition into any kind of care, but with simplified access and reduced waiting times, the transition will feel that little bit more comfortable.
Living Well at Home
Support is about supporting the things that matter to you. It maintains your routine, independence and connection, whilst giving you the extra help you need to live life to the fullest.
If you are exploring options and wondering how you get home care, the first step is a conversation and assessment. With the right help by your side, you can continue to live meaningful lives in the place you feel most comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is support at home and how does it work?
Care at home is about offering practical and personal support that’s in the comfort of your own home. After your assessment, the right services are organised to match your needs and goals that are personal to you.
Who is eligible for support at home programs?
Eligibility is determined through a My Aged Care assessment that reviews health, mobility and daily living needs. Through this process you can find the right level of care.
What types of services are included in home care?
Services may include personal care, household assistance, transport, social support, nursing care and allied health depending on funding and individual needs.
How do I choose the right support at home provider?
Choose a government approved provider, ask for clear pricing, and ensure they offer services that can adapt as your needs change.
What are the costs associated with support at home services?
Costs vary depending on funding level, services required and whether additional private services are chosen. A provider can explain fees before care begins.
What changes are coming to support at home in 2025?
The Support at Home program has replaced the existing structure, aiming to simplify the system and improve access to services and home modifications.