Home Support Services (SAH)
Learn about the Support at Home program
What defines the Support at Home program? The federal initiative launched on 1 November 2025 modernizes aged care by combining Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care. The goal is to provide a versatile, individual-centered, and robust framework for senior care, ensuring that Australians maintain their quality of life and autonomy within their own residences for more years.
Already holding a current Home Care Package?
Existing package holders are not required to submit new applications under the refreshed Support at Home guidelines. If your eligibility was finalized before 12 September 2024, your funding levels are protected to ensure you remain in a stable financial position compared to your previous arrangement. This specific policy is known as a ‘grandfathering provision’. All retained balance amounts will be transferred to your new account automatically. While those previously exempt from the Income Tested Care Fee (ITCF) remain exempt, individuals who were paying this fee before 12 September 2024 will transition to a contribution-based model under the new system to maintain consistent funding flow for your daily care needs.
Is reapplying for aged care funding mandatory now?
Rest assured that your assistance continues without interruption if you are already using a Home Care Package. Should your health or circumstances evolve, you or your chosen provider can simply initiate a formal Care Plan Review via the My Aged Care portal.
Are ACAT assessments continuing in the revised system?
The previous Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) has transitioned into a unified Single Assessment System. While the evaluation process remains a core part of receiving Support at Home, it is now conducted by a streamlined, professional assessment workforce. Explore the details of this new unified workforce.
Will I receive a formal approval notice and unique code to start my services as I did with my previous Home Care Package?
Upon successful assessment for Support at Home, you will receive an official Notice of Decision document. This package outlines: Specific details on the care services approved for you. Your personalized support roadmap featuring your referral code. Authorizations for temporary or short-term assistance. Clear logic and documentation behind the assessor’s outcome. Guidance on your right to appeal if the decision does not meet your needs.
Choosing between Commonwealth Home Support and Support at Home: How do I find the best fit for my home?
Following your assessment request, a professional will visit your residence to verify which program meets your criteria. If CHSP is suitable, you will be notified immediately. If the Support at Home framework provides a better match for your long-term wellness, they will finalize a review. My Aged Care typically delivers a formal classification letter within a 2 to 6 week window to confirm your specific funding tier.
The Support at Home initiative focuses on delivering a versatile, bespoke, and compassionate framework for domestic aged care. Key benefits include: Targeted funding tiers for precise assistance. Consistent care coordination with monthly updates. Rapid activation of short-term recovery support. Greater autonomy in selecting services for your life.