Support at Home
Commencing 1st November 2025
What is the Support at Home Program?
The new Support at Home Program will replace the current Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care programs from 1st November 2025.
The goal is simple – to help older Australians stay in their homes for longer, with a system that is easier to use, quicker to respond, and built for the future.
At Real Caring, we’re here to guide you through these changes and keep you updated every step of the way.
What type of client are you?
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Grandfathered Client
If you were approved for a Home Care Package before12 September 2024, you’ll move into the new Support at Home Program under the government’s “no worse off” guarantee. This means:
- You will keep your unspent funding balance accumulated under Home Care Packages.
- Your out-of-pocket contributions will remain the same or may be reduced.
- If you are a full pensioner and do not pay an Income Tested Fee (ITF), then you are not required to co-contribute to the cost of your services under Support at Home.
- You’ll stay on your existing Home Care Package level until a reassessment is needed.
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Transition Client
If you were approved for a Home Care Package after12 September 2024 and started receiving services before the Support at Home program begins on 1 November 2025.
- You will enter the new program under the same rules as new participants, including contributions towards your services. However, you will:
- Keep any Home Care funding balance accumulated before the changeover.
- Continue with your current level of funding until you are reassessed and assigned a new level of funding under the Support at Home program.
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New Support at Home Client
With the new Support at Home program, you’ll begin your care with the updated system. Whether you’re exploring your options or waiting to be assigned to the program, Real Caring will be by your side every step of the way, helping you access the support you need.
See below for more information on Support at Home
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Unsure ?
Not Sure What Type of Client You Are?
If you’re feeling unsure about which category you belong to – grandfathered, transition, or new client – you’re not alone. The changes to aged care can feel confusing, and it’s natural to have questions.
You may not have started the process yet, and that’s okay too! We are here to help you understand what steps you need to take to start receiving home care.
At Real Caring, we are here to make things simple. We’ll work it out together and make sure your care continues without interruption.