Understanding the Upcoming Support at Home Changes – What You Need to Know

At Mid Murray Support Service, we’re committed to keeping you informed and supported through every change in the aged care sector. One of the biggest changes on the horizon is the transition to the new Support at Home program, set to begin 1 July 2025. This new model will replace the current Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs, with Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) services transitioning no earlier than 1 July 2027.

We understand that change can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to the care of yourself or a loved one. That’s why we’re here to walk you through what’s coming and how you can prepare.

What Is the Support at Home Program?

The Support at Home program is part of the Australian Government’s broader aged care reform plan. It aims to:

• Simplify access to services

• Improve flexibility in how care is delivered

• Provide greater transparency in care management and service delivery

• Ensure older Australians can stay safely and independently in their homes for longer

This single program will replace CHSP, HCP, Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC), and residential respite funding. It’s designed to reduce duplication, improve client experience, and provide more consistent support across the board.

What Will Change?

While the details are still being refined, here’s what we know so far:

• One entry point: Instead of different programs with different rules, there’ll be a single system for managing in-home aged care services.

• Fairer assessments: The new system will better match services with the level of support people actually need.

• New provider arrangements: Providers like Mid Murray Support Service will work within the new framework to deliver tailored support, with clearer rules around pricing, quality, and accountability.

• Increased focus on transparency: Clients will receive more information on costs, care planning, and how their funds are being used.

What does this mean for current Home Care Package (HCP) clients?

If you were approved for a Home Care Package on or before 12 September 2024:

• You will automatically transition to the Support at Home program on 1 July 2025.

• No reassessment is required; your funding will align with your current HCP level.

• Any unspent funds from your HCP will carry over in full to Support at Home.

• The "no-worse off" principle applies, ensuring your contributions under Support at Home will be the same or less than what you currently pay. 

If you were approved for a Home Care Package after 12 September 2024 and before 1 July 2025:

• You will also transition to the Support at Home program on 1 July 2025.

• You will be assessed and assigned a classification under the new Support at Home funding model.

• Your unspent HCP funds will carry over in full to Support at Home.

If you are approved for aged care support after 1 July 2025:

• You will be assessed under the new Support at Home program and assigned a classification that aligns with your care needs.

Where Can I Learn More?

We encourage you to explore the following websites for updates and detailed information:

·     Support at Home program update for older people, families and carers – Webinar video

·     Support at Home program handbook

·     Support at Home program – Frequently asked questions – February 2025 

These resources are regularly updated by the Australian Government and are the most reliable places to stay informed.

We're Here to Help

We know these changes can be confusing, especially if you’re currently receiving care or helping a loved one navigate the system. Our friendly team at Mid Murray Support Service is here to support you every step of the way.

📞 Call us today on (08) 8569 1832 for a chat—we’ll help explain what the changes might mean for you, how to prepare, and what to expect.

You don’t need to navigate these changes alone. Whether you’re a current client, a carer, or just starting to look into in-home aged care, we’re here to provide clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance.

Mid Murray Support Service – helping our community age well, live well, and feel supported every step of the way.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is true and correct to the best of our knowledge as at May 2025. It is intended as general information only and should not be considered personal advice. The aged care system is currently undergoing reform, and details may change as the Government finalises the Support at Home program. We encourage you to refer to official sources and conduct your own research to ensure you are accessing the most up-to-date and relevant information for your individual circumstances.