By
Haisey Home Care
Updated on: August 11, 2025
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x min read
Australia's aged care system is going through one of its most significant changes in recent years.
The Support at Home Program is scheduled to roll out in 2025. It will gradually replace the existing Home Care Package (HCP) program.
This reform will make the program simpler, more transparent, and more flexible.
It will impact older Australians who want to receive in‑home support to live independently and safely.
For families and care recipients, the idea of a new system can feel overwhelming.
You may be wondering: Will my current services change? Will I have to pay more or less? How do I know what to do next?
At Haisey Home Care, we understand these concerns.
This guide will walk you through these Support at Home changes. We'll also explain how the pricing arrangement changes will affect your budget.
After reading this article, you will be able to navigate this transition with more confidence.
What Is the Support at Home Program?
The Support at Home Program is a major initiative from the Australian Government. It was created to simplify and improve in‑home aged care services.
Scheduled to replace Home Care Packages in 2025, this new program is designed to give older Australians and their families:
- Clarity about services and costs
- Flexibility to adapt care plans as needs change
- Transparency in how government funds are spent
Previously, the Home Care Package system faced several challenges, including:
- Confusing package levels and eligibility criteria
- Delays in accessing services and funds
- High administrative costs that reduced the amount of care received
The Support at Home Program addresses these issues by:
- Streamlining eligibility and assessments through My Aged Care.
- Introducing pay‑for‑service pricing, so you know exactly what each service costs.
- Providing broader, more flexible service options, from personal care and domestic support to allied health and respite care.
This is meant to be a simpler, fairer, and more transparent system.
The Support at Home Program will make sure that funding goes directly to meaningful care.
It will empower families to make informed decisions and help older Australians stay independent at home.
What Are the Recent Support at Home Changes?
The shift to the Support at Home Program is part of the government's aged care reform agenda.
Over the last few years, feedback from families, providers, and industry experts highlighted that the old HCP system was often:
- Confusing for new applicants
- Slow to approve and allocate funds
- Costly because of high administrative fees
The government's goal is to create a simpler, fairer, and more responsive system. This system should ensure funds go directly to care rather than administration.
These Support at Home changes matter because:
- Families will have a clearer view of services and costs.
- Providers will be held to higher standards of transparency.
- Older Australians will receive tailored care that better matches their needs.
Key Updates to Support at Home Services
Families should prepare now by reviewing their current services. They should also consider whether their needs might expand under the new model.
Under the new Support at Home framework, several important updates are being introduced. This includes:
- New eligibility assessments will be streamlined through My Aged Care. It will be easier to determine which services a person qualifies for.
- Expanded service categories will include not only personal care and domestic aid, but also clinical services, respite options, and home maintenance.
- Gradual transition means existing HCP clients will be moved over in stages to avoid disruptions in care.
These updates aim to ensure that no one is left behind and that your care plan evolves with you.
For families, the key takeaway is that planning ahead will make the transition smoother. It will also reduce any last‑minute surprises.
Changes to Support at Home Pricing Arrangements
One of the most noticeable Support at Home changes involves how services are priced.
The old HCP model relied on fixed package levels. It often included high administration and case management fees.
The new model focuses on clarity and fairness.
Key pricing updates include:
- Transparent pay‑for‑service billing, so you see exactly what each service costs.
- Lower and standardised administration fees, ensuring more of your funds go directly to care.
- Greater flexibility, allowing families to allocate funds to the services they actually use, rather than being locked into rigid package levels.
This approach is particularly beneficial for families whose care needs fluctuate. If you need extra support one month and less the next, you'll only pay for what you use.
What This Means for Families
For families, these pricing changes bring both opportunity and reassurance.
Here's what you can expect:
- Better cost control – Your invoices will clearly show service charges, giving you confidence in where your funds are going.
- Easier budgeting – With predictable service fees and fewer hidden charges, planning becomes simpler.
- More service flexibility – Adjust services as your needs change without being penalised by package limits.
Navigating the Transition—A Step‑by‑Step Approach
Transitioning to a new care system can be stressful. But breaking the process down into simple steps helps families stay in control.
How to Assess Your Current Arrangements
Before the change takes effect, take some time to:
- Review which services you currently receive and their frequency.
- Compare costs and identify how much goes to administration versus care.
- Consider whether your needs are likely to increase in the next 12 months.
Doing this review now lets you approach your provider with clarity. You'll be able to make informed decisions when the transition begins.
Questions to Ask Your Home Care Provider
When speaking to your current or prospective provider, come prepared with questions like:
- When will my current package transition to the new Support at Home Program?
- Will my care costs increase or decrease under the new pricing model?
- Will I gain or lose any services in the transition?
- How will invoicing and reporting work under the new model?
- Can I change providers easily if I'm not satisfied?
Asking these questions early will give you a roadmap for the transition. It will also help you avoid last‑minute confusion or unexpected costs.
How Haisey Home Care Supports You Through Change
At Haisey Home Care, we know that navigating reform can be emotional as well as logistical. That's why we provide:
- Personalised transition consultations to review your plan and forecast costs.
- Transparent pricing guidance so you understand exactly how much you will pay.
- Dedicated support staff to manage paperwork and liaise with government channels.
FAQ
Will my current Home Care Package be cancelled?
No. Your package will automatically transition to the Support at Home Program during 2025, so services can continue without interruption.
Will I pay more under the new pricing?
Not necessarily. Many families will see better value because less money goes to administration and more goes to actual care.
How do I choose the right provider during the change?
You should compare providers based on transparency, flexibility, and support. Haisey Home Care offers free consultations to walk you through your options.
Where can I get official information?
Visit My Aged Care or call 1800 200 422 for government‑issued updates.
Take the Next Step with Haisey Home Care
The transition to the Support at Home Program is an exciting step toward clearer, fairer, and more flexible in‑home care for older Australians.
While change can feel uncertain, having the right guidance makes all the difference.
Haisey Home Care is here to simplify the transition. We offer transparent pricing advice, making sure your loved one continues receiving the care they deserve.
Book your free in-home consultation today and step confidently into the new era of home care. You can also contact us if you have any questions.
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