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New program, same quality of care from RSL LifeCare
From 1 July 2025, the Australian Government is introducing a new funding program called Support at Home program. This program will replace the current Home Care Package (HCP). And by 1 July 2027, it will also include the services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme – so it will be all together as one program!
We are committed to providing you the same quality of care that you’ve come to enjoy, and we’re going to support you through this transition – so don’t worry, we’ve got you!
The new program has been established to give you more control and visibility over what services you access, and what your funding is spent on.
What does this mean for you?
If you were already receiving, or had been approved for, a Home Care Package before 12 September 2024, you will be considered a ‘grandfathered participant’ under the Support at Home Program. Simply put, you’ll pay no more than you do now – even if you are re-assessed to a higher classification as your needs change. This means:
- Full pensioners who currently pay $0 will continue to pay $0
- If you currently contribute a capped amount each year, that cap will remain
If you were assessed for an Home Care Package on or after 12 September 2024, you are considered a ‘transitioning participant’. For transitioning participants, contribution rates will vary by the type of service received and your income and assets. The Age Pension means test will be used to determine the means tested percentage contribution. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders will pay lower contributions than other self-funded retirees.
What do you need to do?
Your Home Care Coordinator will contact you directly in the coming weeks to discuss your new Service Agreement. In the meantime, your services will continue as usual.
Why is the new Support at Home program better?
The new program has many benefits for seniors who living at home and receiving care services. More support levels, clear service lists and quarterly budgets will give you more control and flexibility.
If you need clinical services like nursing or physiotherapy, these are all covered by your allocated package level. You won’t need to pay extra contributions for this – the government will fully fund aged care services classed as clinical care.
Care Services available under Support at Home
The new program offers a clear list of services under three categories. Here’s a few examples of the type of aged care support that is included.
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| Co-contribution required?
No Clinical services are fully funded by the Australian Government.
Please refer to the Support at Home factsheets provided by the Australian Government for more information
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Co-contribution required?
Yes A means-test of income and assets will determine the rate of contribution. Full pensioners: 5% Part pensioners & Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: Between 5%-50% Self-funded Retiree: 50% |
Co-contribution required?
Yes A means-test of income and assets will determine the rate of contribution. Full pensioners: 17.5% Part pensioners & Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: Between 17.5%-80% Self-funded Retiree: 80% |
| Learn More | Learn More | Learn More |
Plus, there are 2 additional short-term care programs
When you need extra support, there’s care available for you, to live comfortably and with dignity.
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| Available for up to 12 weeks, to help you regain strength and independence with allied health services support. | Sensitive and compassionate care available to allow you to stay at home as long, supported by up to $25,000 funding. |
What services are now included in Support at Home?
If you are in need of the below support services, they are now available under Support at Home. After your assessment, if you are eligible for these services, you will be able to include those as part of your Support at Home package.
Assistive Technology andHome Modifications (AT-HM) SchemeThis new, dedicated funding level offers support for home modifications and assistive technologies, enhancing accessibility and safety within the home. If you are eligible for this program, you could access up to $15,000 for home modifications. A further $15,000 for assistive technology like pill splitters, back cushions, grasp-devices and more.
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Restorative CarePathwayFocuses on rehabilitation and recovery, assisting you to regain independence. This replaces the Short Term Restorative Care Program which offered 8 weeks of support. Under this new pathway you may access:
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End-of-LifePathwayThis new element provides compassionate care for those nearing the end of life, allowing them to remain in familiar surroundings. Funding of up to $25,000 will be made available.
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View Options |
Short Term Supports |
Short Term Supports |
Handy Links
Here’s a few handy links that have further information, provided by the Australian Government.
Support at Home information booklet – guide for people receiving care, their families and carers
Support at Home frequently asked questions – common question asked by people receiving care, their families and carers
Changes to Support at Home pricing arrangements – handy guide for people receiving care and carers
Support at Home on My Aged Care website – information about the new Support at Home Program
Support at Home - Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Support at Home?
Support at Home is a new aged care program starting 1 July 2025. It replaces the Home Care Packages program and is designed to simplify how you receive services at home.
- Do I need a new assessment?
No. If you’re already receiving a Home Care Package or are on the waitlist, you will automatically move into Support at Home at a similar level.
- What happens to the funds I haven’t used yet?
If you were a client before 12 September 2024, you will keep all of your unspent HCP funds.
These can be used for extra care or equipment beyond your new budget if needed.
If you joined a Home Care Package after 12 September 2024, …
- How does my new funding work?
Your funding will now given in quarterly budgets.
You can carry over up to $1,000 or 10% of any unused quarterly funds to the next quarter.
- Will I have to pay for any services?
You may be asked to contribute based on your income. Some services are fully funded, like nursing. Others may have a small co-payment.
Co-payment rates are set by Services Australia and is based on individual client financial situations.
Clinical services are fully funded by the Government.
For Independent Living Services, a means-test of income and assets will determine the rate of contribution.
Full pensioners: 5%
Part pensioners & Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: Between 5%-50%
Self-funded Retiree: 50%
For Everyday Living, a means-test of income and assets will determine the rate of contribution.
Full pensioners: 17.5%
Part pensioners & Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: Between 17.5%-80%
Self-funded Retiree: 80%
- Will my current services or provider change?
No. Your existing services with RSL LifeCare will continue. There is no need to change unless you choose to.
- What is care management?
It’s ongoing support from your RSL LifeCare coordinator to ensure your care plan is working for you, including making changes as your needs change.
- What kind of equipment or home changes can I get help with?
Support at Home has separate funding for things like walkers, grab rails, or home modifications. You don’t need to save for these from your main budget.
- What extra help is available if I become unwell or need more support?
There are extra short-term care pathways available, like 12-week restorative support or up to $25,000 for palliative care at home.
- Do I still pay a daily fee like I did under HCP?
No. There is no daily fee under Support at Home. You’ll only pay a share of the cost for certain services if your income allows it.
- What do I need to do?
You don’t need to do anything right now. RSL LifeCare will guide you through the transition and explain any changes in your care or statements.
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Ready to make a decision
but not sure where to start?
We can help.
-
27 Retirement Living Villages across NSW & ACT
-
29 Residential Care homes across NSW & ACT
-
22 Home Care service locations across NSW & ACT
-
6 Dedicated Veteran & Family Hubs, offering free support for veterans
Contact us today
Our friendly and caring team are ready to help you make a confident decision, and live your best life!