What Services Can You Access Through Australia’s Support at Home Program?

By Your Health Magazine Contributor

Your Health Magazine Contributor

. https://YourHealthMagazine.net

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What Services Can You Access Through Australia’s Support at Home Program?

For older Australians who want to remain independent while continuing to live at home, accessing the right support can make everyday life safer and more manageable. Australia’s Support at Home program, which replaced the Home Care Packages program in November 2025, provides government-funded services for eligible older people to support their health, wellbeing and independence.

Understanding what services are available can help individuals and their families make informed decisions about their care needs. While the specific services available can depend on an individual’s assessed needs and approved funding, home care package providers can cover a broad range of support.

Personal Care Services

Personal care is one of the most common types of support available through a Home Care Package. These services can assist with everyday personal activities that may become more difficult with age.

Depending on individual needs, support may include assistance with showering, dressing, grooming, toileting and mobility. Personal care services can help older people maintain their dignity and independence while receiving support in the comfort of their own home.

Domestic Assistance

A Home Care Package may also provide assistance with household tasks. This can be particularly helpful for people who find physically demanding chores difficult to manage.

Domestic assistance may include cleaning, laundry, changing bed linen and other essential household tasks. The aim is generally to help maintain a safe and comfortable living environment rather than provide extensive household cleaning unrelated to care needs.

Meal Preparation and Food Support

Preparing nutritious meals can become challenging for some older people. Home care services may provide assistance with meal preparation, grocery shopping or other food-related tasks, depending on the person’s care plan.

Support can help individuals maintain a balanced diet while allowing them to continue enjoying meals at home. Some providers may also offer meal delivery services where appropriate.

Transport and Community Participation

Maintaining social connections and attending appointments can be an important part of healthy ageing. Home Care Package funding may support transport for approved purposes, such as attending medical appointments, shopping or participating in community activities.

Some care services can also assist older people to participate in social activities, hobbies and community events. This can help reduce social isolation and support overall wellbeing.

Allied Health and Health-Related Services

Depending on the person’s assessed needs and care plan, a Home Care Package may contribute towards certain allied health and therapeutic services. These can include services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry and other approved supports.

These services can assist with maintaining mobility, managing everyday activities and supporting a person’s ability to remain safely at home.

Home Modifications and Equipment

Some Home Care Package funding can be used for equipment or modifications that support safety and independence. Examples may include mobility equipment, assistive technology or certain changes to the home environment.

The specific items and modifications covered will depend on the person’s individual circumstances, assessment and care plan.

Respite and Support for Carers

Respite services may also be available to provide temporary support for an older person while their usual carer takes a break. This can be valuable for families and informal carers who provide regular assistance.

Choosing the Right Home Care Services

Support at Home services are based on an individual’s assessed care needs, meaning not every service will be suitable or funded for every person. Working with a registered provider can help you understand available options, manage your funding and develop a care plan that reflects your priorities.

Before selecting services, consider your current needs, future goals, preferred schedule and the level of support required. The right combination of Home Care Package services can help older Australians remain at home, maintain independence and continue participating in the activities that matter to them.