Be informed by reading the following information. There are some great options for aged care funding for Australians who need care services with varying levels of need. The Federal and State governments offer a range of funding, but it’s important to know which type of funding you may be eligible for.
Before you can access government-subsidized aged care services for the first time, you must apply for an assessment. Using the My Aged Care online application.
The same form will apply to all types of care and support you need. Including at-home, short-term care, and care in an aged care home. Have a partner, family member, or friend sit down and support you while completing the application if needed.
Follow the link below to apply online for an assessment in 3 easy steps https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment/apply-online.
We break down the funding options for you:
The baseline requirements to be eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) or the Home Care Package Funding is that you must be:
Aged 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people), or 50 years or older (45 or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) and on a low-income, homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless.
Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) funding
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) is an entry-level support service package.
They provide four main categories of services: safety at home, community connection, health and independence, and help for those experiencing homelessness.
These services include meal support, home modifications, planned respite care, and personal care.
Home Care Package (HCP) funding
The Home Care Packages Support Program (HCPP) is designed for people who require more complex care needs beyond CHSP. They offer services in the same four categories: meal assistance, nursing and allied health care, more complex home modifications, personal care, and domestic assistance.
There are four levels of home care packages offered.
| Level One | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic care needs. Approximately $8,900 a year | High-level care. Approximately $51,600 a yea | Intermediate care. Approximately $34,000 a year | High-level care. Approximately $51,600 a year |
The amount the government contributes towards your home care package is based on the care level you have been approved for. The funds they provide are paid to your selected home care provider, who will manage them. Home care package funds are used to purchase the right care and services for your needs.
Home care providers deliver care packages and services to clients. Selecting the right home care provider is important to ensure you get the correct services. Choosing the best provider is based on your required support and services. Click the link below for options.
What other options are there?
Community Assistance and Support Program (CASP)
If you are not eligible for CHSP or HCPP but still require home care, you might be eligible for the Community Assistance and Support Program (CASP). This program is provided by ACT Health.
To be eligible for CASP, you must live in the ACT, be under 65, and require home and community support for daily living activities due to a health issue.
The aim is to enhance health and well-being and to help facilitate independence and interaction in the community. Their support includes client assessment and care coordination, counseling and support, personal care, social support, domestic assistance, and home and garden maintenance. They cannot provide long-term or high-level care needs.
Short Term Restorative Care
Short-term restorative care is a program provided by the Australian Government designed to assist in managing and adapting to your changing needs. The support they provide will be guided by a doctor’s assessment and is based on your needs.
These might include Aids and equipment, cooking and meal assistance, physiotherapy and occupational therapy services, transportation, social work, and personal care. You might be eligible for these short-term, up to 8-week care periods twice a year.
Private Providers
Private care is available through select providers if you are not eligible for government-funded programs. The Australian Government does not subsidize these, and you must pay the full cost for these services.
You can receive in-home care through private providers, which includes Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, exercise, cleaning and home maintenance, transport, and personal care. For more information about private providers, go to https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/private-providers