Home Care Package Inclusions and Exclusions Explained

When it comes to arranging home care, one of the most common sources of confusion is knowing what your Home Care Package will actually cover. 

Families often ask, "Is this included?" or "Why isn't that covered?"

The answers aren't always straightforward. 

That's because the government has set clear rules about what can and can't be funded, yet these rules are updated regularly. 

Having a clear understanding of Home Care Package inclusions and exclusions helps you avoid surprises.

You'll also be able to plan your budget effectively and get the most value out of your support. 

In this guide, we'll explain what is and isn't included in your Home Care Package. We'll also talk about common grey areas, so you'll know what to expect. 

What Is Included in Home Care Packages?

Let's start with Home Care Package (HCP) inclusions.

These are the services and supports you can pay for using your package funds. 

The Australian Government sets clear criteria. The included services must:

1. Relate to your assessed care needs
2. Promote your independence
3. Help you remain at home safely

Here are examples of services usually covered by Home Care Packages:

• Personal care: Assistance with showering, dressing, and grooming.
• Domestic help: Cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation.
• Transport: To medical appointments, community activities, and shopping.
• Health services: Nursing, physiotherapy, podiatry, and occupational therapy.
• Equipment & aids: Mobility aids, walking frames, and shower chairs.
• Social support: Companionship, group activities, and day outings.
• Home maintenance: Minor repairs, gardening to ensure safety.

Every Home Care Package is designed to suit the individual. No two people have the same requirements.

Some may need extra support with day-to-day personal care. Others prefer to use their funding for social outings or staying active outdoors. 

The focus always comes down to what matters most for the person receiving care.

Signing up for a Home Care Package also gives seniors access to health practitioners. 

Depending on your needs, this could mean regular visits from specialised nurses, occupational therapists, or allied health practitioners.

Allied health services include:

1. Speech therapy
2. Hearing and vision services
3. Physiotherapy services
4. Podiatry services
5. Other therapy services

What Is Excluded from Home Care Packages?

Home Care Package exclusions are expenses you would pay for with your general income.

Check out this Home Care Package exclusion list:

Everyday living costs (not health-related):

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Groceries and food (except when part of meal preparation services)
• Utilities, phone, and internet bills

Major assets or renovations:

• Buying a car
• House renovations that aren't directly related to care needs
• Large household appliances

Medical & health exclusions:

• Medications, supplements, vitamins
• Private health insurance premiums
• Services already covered by Medicare or the PBS

Lifestyle choices:

• Holidays, entertainment, club memberships
• Gambling, alcohol, or tobacco products

Home Care Package funds can't be spent on services or items already subsidised through:

1. The Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS)
2. The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

This means things like medications, GP visits, hospital stays, and other medical expenses are excluded. 

It also can't be used to cover Home Care Package fees, including the basic daily fee or the income-tested care fee.

To avoid any confusion, it's a good idea to confirm with your provider exactly what is and isn't covered. 

These details should be clearly outlined in your care plan, which should remain flexible and reflect your changing needs over time.

Exceptions to Home Care Package Exclusions

Home Care Package exclusions come with some exceptions that depend on your situation.

For instance, everyday food purchases aren't covered. 

However, if you need enteral feeding or help with preparing meals, those services can be funded.

The same applies to your home environment. 

You can't use your package to pay rent or mortgage costs, but you can access funding for essential modifications or equipment that improve safety and independence. 

Here are some examples: 

1. Bed rails
2. Slide sheets
3. Pressure-relieving mattresses
4. Walking frames
5. Easy access taps
6. Raised garden beds
7. Hearing aids
8. Aid batteries

Medical costs such as prescriptions or hospital visits remain excluded. However, providers may supply continence products and urinary drainage aids through your package.

Entertainment expenses, like movies or sporting events, also aren't included. That said, community-based activities that promote social connection are often supported.

What you can access depends on:

1. Your assessed care needs
2. Your package level
3. The policies of your chosen provider

What Haisey Home Care Has to Offer

At Haisey Home Care, we're proud to be a trusted provider of Home Care Packages across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and nearby regions.

Our mission is simple: to deliver quality support that helps you feel safe, comfortable, and independent at home. 

Haisey Home Care offers the following services:

• Companionship
• Personal care
• Preparing meals
• Light housekeeping
• Home maintenance
• Respite care
• Occupational therapy
• Medication reminders
• Specialised nursing
• Laundry services
• Social outings and support

This list isn't exhaustive. If you have something specific in mind, just ask. We're flexible and happy to tailor services to your situation.

Whether you need an occupational therapist, a registered nurse, or other allied health professionals, Haisey Home Care is here to help. 

We also believe in transparent, competitive pricing: no daily fees, no hidden costs — just straightforward care that puts your needs first.

FAQ

Can I buy groceries with my HCP?

No, everyday grocery shopping isn't covered. However, your package can be used for meal preparation services or delivered meals if they're part of your care plan.

Is dental care included?

Routine dental check-ups and treatments aren't generally included. In some cases, allied health referrals may cover oral health support if it's directly linked to your overall wellbeing plan.

Can I use my funds for physiotherapy?

Yes, physiotherapy is a common allied health service covered under most packages, especially when it helps with mobility, recovery, or pain management.

Are hearing aids covered?

Hearing aids and batteries can be covered if they're deemed essential to your independence and daily functioning.

What about transport?

You can use your package for transport related to medical appointments, social activities, or shopping trips, as long as it's included in your care plan.

Can I use my HCP to pay utility bills or rent?

No, bills like electricity, gas, internet, or housing costs are not allowed under the Home Care Package exclusion list.

What if I disagree with an exclusion?

Start by discussing the issue with your provider. If you're unsatisfied, you can request a formal review of your care plan. 

Understanding Your Options

Understanding Home Care Package inclusions and exclusions is one of the most important steps in getting the right support.

When you know exactly what your package covers, you can plan better, avoid unnecessary costs, and make sure you're receiving the care that truly meets your needs. 

While the government rules can feel complicated, the good news is that you don't have to figure it out on your own.

At Haisey Home Care, we take the time to explain everything in plain language. 

We'll guide you through the inclusions, exclusions, and even the "grey areas," so you feel confident about how your package is being used. 

Our team works closely with you to ensure your care plan reflects your health, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Contact us for more information or a free assessment in your own home. 

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