Home Care Packages
Supporting You Every Step of the Way
What is a Grandfathered Client ?
Under Support at Home...
A Grandfathered client is someone who, as of 12 September 2024, was:
-
Receiving a Home Care Package, or
-
On the National Priority System (NPS) waiting list, or
-
Assessed as eligible for a Home Care Package
-
These clients are protected by a “no worse off” principle under the Support at Home reform.
What this means for you:
-
You’ll pay the same or less than you would have under the current Home Care Package system
-
If you’re a full-rate pensioner who pays no fees now, you will not pay fees under Support at Home
-
If you are currently contributing fees, the rate may change—but you will not pay more than you currently do
-
If you are later reassessed (after 1 July 2025), your contribution may be adjusted based on your services, but only if it results in a fair outcome
What is a Hybrid Client
Under Support at Home...
A Hybrid client refers to someone who was approved for a Home Care Package between 13 September 2024 and 30 June 2025 (inclusive).
What this means for you:
-
You will move to the standard Support at Home arrangements on 1 November 2025
-
Your care and contribution arrangements will follow the new Support at Home pricing and fees framework from the date of transition
What is a Transitioned Client?
Under Support at Home...
The term Transitioned client is used to collectively refer to all existing Home Care Package recipients who will move from the Home Care Package program to the Support at Home program on 1 November 2025. This includes both Grandfathered clients and Hybrid clients.
What this means for you:
-
If you are currently receiving a Home Care Package, you are considered a Transitioned client when you move to Support at Home on 1 November 2025
-
Your transition will be automatic, with no need for reassessment
-
Your care level and services will continue, but your fee and contribution arrangements will align with your specific category (Grandfathered or Hybrid)
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I’m waiting for a higher-level package?
If you’re already on the national waitlist for a higher-level package, that won’t change. You’ll continue moving through the queue under the current system. If your new level is approved after 1 November 2025, you’ll move to that new funding level under Support at Home, and your protections (like grandfathering) will still apply if you’re eligible.
What are the key benefits of the Support at Home program?
The Support at Home program introduces several improvements over the current Home Care Package system:
-
More funding – The maximum annual funding will increase from $61,440 to $78,000
-
Care Coordinators – will help manage your care and services
-
Faster access – Wait times for funding will reduce to three months by 2027
-
Assistive Technology & Home Modifications – Up to $15,000 upfront for things like walking aids and bathroom modifications
-
Short-term support – Additional restorative care funding and a new End-of-Life Pathway to help people remain at home in their final months
How to apply for Support at Home?
Call or register with My Aged Care: 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au
-
Have an assessment through the Single Assessment System (SAS)
-
Receive your classification level and funding amount
-
Choose SJH Support Services and Trilogy Care as your registered provider
-
Start your personalised care plan
Ready to apply or need a hand getting started? Contact SJH Support Services on 0474 751 206 – here to simplify aged care for you.