Navigating Change: What the New ‘Support at Home’ Program Means for You
- chrisnobl3
- Apr 17
- 4 min read
A big shift is coming to the way ageing Australians receive in-home support. The Australian Government has announced that the current Home Care Packages program will transition into a new model called Support at Home, expected to begin rolling out from 1 July 2025. This change is designed to simplify services, improve flexibility, and make it easier for ageing Australians to get the support they need to live independently at home for longer.
At PTU Homecare, we know change can bring questions and uncertainty—but it can also bring opportunity. We’re here to help you understand what’s changing, how it might affect you or your loved ones, and what you can do to prepare.
Why the Change?
The Home Care Packages program has supported many ageing Australians over the years. But for some, the system has felt confusing, hard to navigate, and a little too slow to respond to individual needs.
That’s why the government is rolling out the Support at Home program. It’s designed to be:
Simpler to access and understand
Faster in getting services up and running
More flexible, with clearer options for care and support
Fairer, ensuring funding goes where it’s needed most
The aim is to deliver a more streamlined system that works better for ageing Australians, their families, and providers alike.
What’s Actually Changing?
While the full details are still being finalised, here’s what we know so far:
Support at Home will replace several existing aged care programs, including:
Home Care Packages (HCP)
Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC)
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) (to be integrated in future stages)
Services will be more tailored to each person’s needs, with clearer menus and pricing so people understand exactly what support they're getting.
There will be one set of rules for providers, making the experience more consistent, whether you're living in a metro area or the middle of the bush.
You’ll have more choice in how your budget is spent—and who delivers your services.
For many ageing Australians, especially those in rural and remote areas, this could mean quicker access to essential help, and less red tape.
What Does This Mean for Current Home Care Package Users?
If you’re already receiving services under the Home Care Packages program, don’t worry—your care won’t suddenly stop.
Here’s what you need to know:
You’ll be supported to transition smoothly into the new system.
The services you currently receive may continue, but how they’re managed or funded could change slightly.
You’ll have access to more transparent information about your funding and options.
You might be asked to review or update your care preferences with your provider.
PTU Homecare will work closely with all of our existing clients and their families to make sure nothing is lost in the process. We’re committed to making the transition as seamless and stress-free as possible.
For New Users: What to Expect
If you or someone you love is just starting the journey to access aged care services at home, the upcoming changes might actually work in your favour.
The Support at Home model is being designed to reduce long wait times and simplify the application process. Once the new system is live, you should be able to:
Access services faster
Understand what support is available to you
Choose providers who truly suit your lifestyle and preferences
Especially for those living in rural and regional areas, this could be a game-changer. With clearer pricing and service options, and a more flexible structure, the hope is that more providers—like PTU Homecare—will be able to expand services where they’re needed most.
PTU Homecare: Here to Help Through the Changes
At PTU Homecare, we’re staying closely up-to-date with every step of the aged care reform process. Our team is preparing to support both current and future clients through the transition with clarity, care, and continuity.
We know that no two people are the same—and no two towns are, either. That’s why our support workers and care staff, who come from a wide range of backgrounds and communities, are ready to walk alongside you no matter where you’re based—from the city fringe to the heart of the bush.
Our goal is to make sure every ageing Australian has access to respectful, reliable, and high-quality support that fits their life—not the other way around.
Let’s Talk
Are you unsure about how these changes might affect you or someone you care for? Or are you considering home support for the first time and feeling unsure where to start?
Reach out to PTU Homecare today. Our team is here to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you navigate this next chapter with confidence. Whether you're an existing client or exploring aged care services for the first time, we’re here for you.
Helpful Resources
For more information on the aged care reforms and additional support, check out these trusted resources:
My Aged Care
Information and access to aged care services
www.myagedcare.gov.au | Call 1800 200 422
Department of Health and Aged Care – Aged Care Reform
Updates and fact sheets on Support at Home and aged care changes
www.health.gov.au/aged-care-reform
COTA Australia
Advocacy and resources for ageing Australians
Carer Gateway
Support for those looking after a loved one
www.carergateway.gov.au | Call 1800 422 737
PTU Homecare is proud to provide trusted, person-centred support across Australia —from city suburbs to country backroads. Wherever you are, we’re walking beside you.
