Are You Ready for the Shift from Home Care Packages to Support at Home?
Imagine this: You’ve just gotten used to how Home Care Packages (HCPs) work. You finally understand the levels, the fees, the services. And now—bam!—they’re changing it all.
But here’s the good news: this change could be a huge benefit for older Australians wanting to stay at home longer, safer, and with the right support.
From 1 July 2025, the Support at Home Program will begin rolling out across Australia, replacing the current Home Care Packages system.
Let’s break down what this means for you—and why Summit Health Solutions is ready to support you every step of the way.
The Real-Life Story: Meet Margaret
Margaret is 81 and lives in regional NSW. Her daughter, Lisa, lives in Melbourne and manages her mum’s care remotely. Margaret has been using HCP Level 3 to get help with physio, nail care, and home safety support.
Lisa’s biggest fear? “What if Mum’s funding changes and she loses support?”
Here’s the truth: Under Support at Home, Margaret will keep her funding level, get faster access to services, and be better supported to stay independent at home.
What Is the Support at Home Program?
- Starts 1 July 2025
- Replaces Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care
- Expands services and funding for in-home care
- Aims to cut wait times and support aging Australians to stay at home longer
Read the official government overview
What’s Changing? (And Why It Matters)
1. 🏡 New Funding Tiers
There are now 8 levels of Support at Home funding (not 4). This means services can be better matched to each person’s needs.
👉 Good news: Most people currently on a Home Care Package will keep their level when they switch to Support at Home.
2. Quarterly Budgets
Instead of annual funding, you’ll get money released every 3 months. This helps plan support better—and lets you carry over some unspent funds if needed.
3. Dedicated Care Management
You’ll be supported by a Care Partner to help manage services and make sure your funding is used well.
👉 Plus: You can self-manage if you prefer more control.
4. New Rules Around Fees
Only non-clinical services (like gardening, cleaning, or delivered meals) will attract a co-payment. Clinical services like physio, OT, nursing, and massage will be 100% government-funded.
This is a big win for those needing allied health!
5. Assistive Technology & Home Modifications (AT-HM)
Instead of saving up, you can get upfront funding for things like grab rails, walking aids, or ramps—with help from professionals like OTs and physios.
Funding available: Up to $15,000 per year in some cases.
6. Restorative & End-of-Life Support
Special pathways will give access to extra help:
• Up to $12,000 for short-term therapy
• Up to $25,000 for end-of-life care at home
What Does It Mean for You, as a Family Member or Care Manager?
- Less red tape.
- Faster access.
- More support to stay at home—where most older Australians want to be.
At Summit Health Solutions, we already deliver over 600 allied health services every week using HCP funding—and we’re ready for the switch.That means you don’t need to worry. Our team is across the changes and will support you, your clients, or your loved one through the transition.
The Takeaways
✔️ No one currently on a package will be worse off
✔️ More funding = more services
✔️ Better matching to actual needs
✔️ Trusted providers like Summit will still deliver care
✔️ You can still use allied health services like OT, physio, massage, and exercise
What to Do Next?
If you're a care manager, family member, or an older adult:
1. Save this blog for reference
2. Read trusted sources like The Careside’s blog
3. Reach out to Summit if you want guidance on funding, services, or care planning for the year ahead
Let’s Stay Ahead—Together.
We’re not an aged care provider—but we work alongside care managers and families every day to make sure older Australians stay mobile, healthy, and connected.
Have questions? We're ready to help.
👉 Contact Summit Health Solutions today to understand how your allied health services will continue without interruption—and with even more options from July 2025. Call 1300 315 315 or email Admin@summithealthsolutions.com.au
