The complete guide to homecare packages
Aged care support in Australia has undergone significant change, and one of the most positive shifts has been the growing availability of government funded home support. For many seniors and their families, remaining at home is not simply a preference, it is deeply tied to wellbeing, independence and dignity. The idea of ageing in place surrounded by familiar routines, personal belongings, neighbourhoods and social connections provides comfort and a sense of control. As a result, increasing numbers of Australians are seeking in home support rather than transitioning into residential aged care.
Homecare Packages have become one of the most effective ways to access reliable help at home while ensuring care is tailored to the individual rather than a one size fits all arrangement. Demand for Homecare Packages continues to increase every year because they allow seniors to stay where they feel safe while receiving the nursing, personal care and allied health services they need to live well. Yet many families feel confused or overwhelmed when they start researching Homecare Packages, especially when navigating eligibility, wait times, funding, package levels and how to select the right provider.
This guide has been created to simplify every aspect of the process so families can make informed decisions without unnecessary stress. Whether you are exploring support for yourself or a loved one, our aim is to help you understand how Homecare Packages work, what services they can include, how homecare package levels are structured, how much funding is available and how to choose a provider that will be a true partner in care. With clear information on eligibility, costs, the application journey and provider comparison, older Australians and their families can feel empowered and confident in securing the support they deserve.
What is a homecare package?
A Homecare Package is a government funded aged care program that supports older Australians who need additional help to live independently at home. Rather than moving to a residential facility, seniors can receive ongoing and personalised support in their own environment, with services adjusted to match their changing goals, health conditions and daily living requirements.
Every Homecare Package includes a personalised care plan that reflects the individual’s unique needs. Some people may only require occasional domestic help and transport support, while others may need regular nursing assistance to manage chronic illness or advanced mobility challenges. This flexibility makes Homecare Packages extremely valuable because no two people age the same way and each person deserves care that feels personal.
It is important to distinguish a Homecare Package from the Commonwealth Home Support Programme. CHSP provides low level assistance for people who only require minimal support. Homecare Packages, on the other hand, are designed for those with greater or ongoing needs and offer a coordinated and long term approach to care. There is sometimes a misconception that all packages are identical, but that is not the case. HCPs are not a uniform or fixed system. They are tailored to the person and can be updated over time as health needs change or personal preferences evolve.
Who is eligible for a homecare package?
Eligibility for a Homecare Package is determined through My Aged Care and is based on a person’s ability to continue living independently and safely in their own home. Most people approved for a Homecare Package experience increasing difficulty with day to day activities, medical management or mobility. While every situation is different, common indicators include challenges with walking, reduced strength or balance, difficulty maintaining hygiene and grooming, challenges preparing meals, managing medication, cleaning or doing laundry, or requiring frequent support from family members.
To determine eligibility, individuals undergo an ACAT or ACAS assessment. A trained assessor visits the home to evaluate daily living capacity, health conditions, mobility risks, safety hazards and the level of support needed to maintain independence. They also take time to understand the individual’s preferences, lifestyle and goals which is an essential part of creating a personalised plan if approval is granted.
Many families wait until a crisis before seeking support, but an early application is always recommended. Signs that it may be time to apply include loss of confidence with daily tasks, missed medication, increased falls, noticeable weight loss, social isolation, carers feeling exhausted or overwhelmed, or a general decline in physical or cognitive function. Exploring Homecare Packages early allows support to be in place before health worsens or family members become burnt out.
Homecare package levels explained (Levels 1 to 4)
There are four homecare package levels designed to match support to the person’s needs. The level assigned determines the funding available and the intensity of services provided.
Level 1 Homecare Package - Basic support needs
Designed for people requiring only a small amount of assistance, usually a few hours of help each week. Services may include support with cleaning, meal prep, transport and occasional personal care.
Level 2 Homecare Package - Low level support
Suitable for those who need slightly more regular support. This may include ongoing personal care, help with shopping, social support, medication reminders and some clinical support where required.
Level 3 Homecare Package - Intermediate care needs
For people with more complex or frequent care requirements. This level may include daily personal care, regular nursing assistance, mobility support, chronic disease management and ongoing therapies from allied health professionals.
Level 4 Homecare Package - High or complex care needs
This is the highest level of support and is designed for people who require a high degree of care. Services can include daily clinical support, advanced personal care, extensive mobility assistance, allied health therapies and constant oversight of health conditions.
Each upward step increases the amount of funding available, allowing families to access more services as health needs evolve. It is common for people to begin with a lower level and move to a level 3 homecare package or a level 4 homecare package over time. If care needs change, families can request a reassessment to ensure the package continues to reflect the level of support required.
Author : John Doe
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What services are included in a Homecare Package?
Homecare Packages are highly flexible and cover a wide range of services to support quality of life, safety and wellbeing. Services may include:
- Personal care to help with bathing, grooming, toileting, dressing and hygiene
- Nursing and clinical care to manage medications, wound care, continence and chronic illness
- Domestic assistance including cleaning, vacuuming, dishwashing, laundry and household tasks
- Allied health services such as physiotherapy, podiatry, dietetics, speech therapy and occupational therapy
- Social support and transport for attending appointments, shopping, community activities and staying socially connected
- Meal preparation and grocery support to ensure safe food handling and balanced nutrition
- Home modifications and equipment such as walkers, ramps, grab rails and raised seating to reduce fall risk and improve mobility.
Families appreciate having control over which services are included and how often care visits occur. It is equally important to understand what cannot be funded under a Homecare Package. Funds cannot be used for rent, mortgage payments, entertainment, holidays, gambling or personal medical expenses like private health insurance. Being transparent about what is and is not covered helps families plan effectively and ensures funds go directly toward services that support health and independence.
How to apply for a Homecare Package (Step by Step)
Although the application process may seem complex at first, it becomes much easier once you understand the key steps. The goal is to assess the individual’s needs and connect them with appropriate support.
- Step 1 Contact My Aged Care to request an assessment based on the individual’s current living situation and level of difficulty with daily tasks
- Step 2 An ACAT or ACAS assessor visits the home to evaluate mobility, cognitive function, medical needs, safety risks, current support and personal goals
- Step 3 Following approval, the individual enters the national waitlist and will later receive notification that their package is ready to be assigned
- Step 4 When the package becomes available, the person can compare options and choose a provider rather than being assigned one without choice
- Step 5 The provider completes onboarding, develops a personalised care plan and services commence based on health needs and lifestyle preferences.
Due to wait times, many people choose to access support through CHSP or private care to avoid going without essential assistance while waiting for their package to be allocated.
Choosing the right homecare package provider
Selecting a provider is one of the most crucial stages in the Homecare Package journey. The provider manages the funding, coordinates the services and is responsible for delivering quality care. Choosing carefully ensures peace of mind and long term stability.
Key things to compare when reviewing providers include care management fees, transparency of pricing, available services, nursing support, the flexibility of scheduling, qualifications of staff, continuity of carers and the provider’s responsiveness to concerns. It is also important to check whether unused funds carry over from month to month and how frequently care plans can be reviewed.
Before signing, families should ask clear questions about communication processes, emergency support procedures, whether service changes can be made easily and how often the care team provides updates. Red flags include high administration fees, limits on service choice, pressure to sign quickly, lack of pricing transparency or slow customer service. If a family becomes unhappy with their provider at any stage, they have the right to switch. Funds are transferred directly to the new provider and support continues without disruption.
Key takeaways
Homecare Packages give older Australians an empowering alternative to residential aged care by allowing them to maintain their independence and comfort at home. With four homecare package levels designed to match different support needs, seniors can access a personalised mix of services that adapt as their health changes. When families understand eligibility, homecare package changes, funding and the application process, they are better equipped to compare providers and make decisions that will positively impact long term wellbeing. With the right support provider, loved ones can enjoy safety, connection, dignity and quality care in the place that matters most their home.
FAQs
What is a homecare package?
A Homecare Package is a government funded aged care program that provides personalised support to older Australians who need help to live independently at home. Services can include personal care, domestic assistance, clinical care and social support.
What happens if care needs increase over time?
If a person’s health or mobility changes, they can request a reassessment and move to a higher level of support. Many people transition from a level 2 homecare package to a level 3 or 4 as needs become greater.
How long does it take to receive a Homecare Package?
Timeframes vary depending on care urgency and the national waitlist. People at high risk or with complex needs may be prioritised, and interim support may be available through CHSP or private services while waiting.
Can I switch providers if I am unhappy with the service?
Yes, you can switch providers at any time if care is not meeting expectations. Your remaining funds transfer to the new provider and services continue without interruption.
Author : John Doe
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