Support at Home FAQs
Navigating the aged care system can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting out. To make things easier, we’ve answered the most common questions older Australians and families ask about the Support at Home aged care program. Addressing concerns of funding, eligibility, switching providers and more.
Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or someone you love, these FAQs will help you understand how the Support at Home Program works, and how Carer’s Network can support you every step of the way.
What is Support at Home?
Support at Home is a government-subsidised funding program designed to help older Australians live independently, safely and comfortably in their own homes for longer.
There are eight levels of government funding, based on your assessed care needs. This funding can be used for personal care, domestic assistance, home and garden maintenance, in-home nursing, assistive technology, home modifications and other in-home aged care services tailored to your situation. To learn more about Support at Home program click here.
How does Support at Home program work?
After completing an assessment through My Aged Care, if found eligible, you’ll be allocated and assigned a Support at Home funding level that reflects your needs. This funding:
- Gives you choice and flexibility
- Allows you to choose your own in-home aged care provider
- Can be adjusted over time as your needs change
- Helps you maintain independence and stay connected to your community
Carer’s Network then works with you to create a personalised care plan that suits your lifestyle, goals and preferences.
What are the benefits of the Support at Home Program?
Support at Home aims to create a simpler, faster and more supportive in-home aged care system. Key benefits include:
- Eight levels of funding, up to $78,106 per year for those with very high or complex needs
- Faster access to care, with reduced waiting times for approved services. This is prioritised by care requirements, ensuring higher-priority cases receive funding sooner.
- A single assessment that considers your personal, medical, and functional circumstances.
- Improved flexibility for care planning
- More help to regain independence after illness or injury
- No separate admin fees or hidden charges. Package management costs are built into pricing, ensuring transparency and value.
- Quarterly budgets: Your annual funding is divided into four equal parts (each covering three months), and you can carry over up to $1,000 or 10% (whichever is greater) of any unused funds to the next quarter. Making funding easier to manage.
How does Support at Home program work?
Support at Home funding can be used for a wide range of in-home aged care services, including:
- Personal Care
- Domestic Assistance
- In-Home Nursing Services
- Community & Social Support
- Home & Garden Maintenance
- Meal Preparation
- Transport/Mobility
- Respite Care
Each service must relate to a care need identified in your assessment and care plan.
Can I switch in-home aged care providers?
Yes, absolutely.
You’re always in control. If your needs change or you want a provider who better suits your lifestyle, you can switch providers at any time without losing your funding.
The process is straightforward, and Carer’s Network can guide you step-by-step to make the transition smooth and stress-free.
Am I eligible for Support at Home funding?
Eligibility is based on:
- Being aged 65+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
- Needing support to continue living safely and independently at home
- Experiencing financial hardship or housing instability
** You can also privately fund in-home aged care services at any age
What if my needs change after I’ve started services or been assigned funding?
Your care plan is flexible. If your needs increase or decrease, you can request a reassessment.
This may adjust your Support at Home funding level to better match your current needs. Carer’s Network will help you navigate this process and ensure you receive appropriate support.
Where can I find more information about Support at Home?
You can learn more via:
- Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care website
- My Aged Care
- The Carer’s Network Support at Home page for simple explanations and next steps
If you prefer a friendly chat instead of reading through government websites, our team is always here to help.
What is the process for accessing Support at Home funding?
The process may seem confusing, so we have simplified it for you below:
- Register with My Aged Care (online or by phone).
- Request and complete your in-home assessment. This is where the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) visits you to understand your support needs.
- If found eligible, you will enter the approval stage. A Notice of Decision will be sent to you, outlining what level of funding (1–8) you have been approved for.
- Join the national waitlist. This is where you wait for your actual funding to be allocated.
- Funding is assigned. Once you have been allocated funding, you can begin services with Carer’s Network, we meet with you, create a care plan and start the supports you need at home.
To find out more, click here.
Need help getting started with Support at Home?
Carer’s Network is your local in-home aged care services provider, offering personal, warm, flexible support to help you understand your options and begin services with confidence.
We’re always happy to sit down, have a cuppa, and walk through the process with you step by step. Get in touch today.
