Understanding the Level 4 Home Care Package
In Australia, the Home Care Packages (HCP) Program provides government-funded support to help older people live at home for as long as possible. A Level 4 home care package is the most intensive and highest level of support available, designed for individuals with complex, high-level care needs that require significant and ongoing assistance. This level is suitable for those who might otherwise be eligible for residential aged care but wish to continue living at home.
What services are included in a Level 4 Home Care Package?
With the highest level of funding, a Level 4 package offers a wide range of services to support an individual's unique and complex needs. These services are designed to provide comprehensive, daily assistance across multiple areas of care. An approved provider will work with you to develop a personalised care plan.
Commonly included services are:
- Personal care, such as assistance with showering and dressing.
- Complex nursing tasks, like wound care and medication management.
- Palliative care.
- Dementia support.
- Household help, including cleaning and laundry.
- Meal preparation.
- Mobility support and aids.
- Access to allied health services (e.g., physiotherapy).
- Assistive technology and equipment.
- Transportation for appointments and social activities.
- Companionship.
- Respite care.
Who is eligible for a Level 4 Home Care Package?
Eligibility requires an assessment showing complex care needs, typically for those aged 65 and over (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) who are Australian citizens or permanent residents. The assessment is conducted by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) through My Aged Care. You are approved for a package level based on the assessment outcome, not by selecting a level yourself.
How does the funding work?
Funding for a Level 4 package combines government subsidy and potential individual contributions. The government provides a substantial annual subsidy (around $61,440 as of late 2024) paid to your provider. You may contribute through a Basic Daily Fee and an Income-Tested Care Fee, determined by Services Australia based on your income. Pensioners below a certain income threshold are not required to pay the income-tested fee.
The Application Process: A step-by-step guide
- Register with My Aged Care: Start by contacting My Aged Care online or by phone.
- ACAT Assessment: An assessor will visit to evaluate your needs and determine your eligibility and package level.
- Receive Approval: If approved, you get a letter and enter the national priority queue.
- Find a Provider: Once a package is available, choose an approved provider to develop your care plan and manage your budget.
What is the difference between HCP Levels?
Understanding the different package levels can help clarify the options available:
| Feature | Level 1 (Basic Care) | Level 2 (Low Care) | Level 3 (Intermediate Care) | Level 4 (High/Complex Care) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Care Needs | Minimal assistance with daily tasks. | Low-level care, more consistent help. | Intermediate needs, more frequent or longer visits. | Complex and high-level care, often daily visits. |
| Funding (Approx. Annual) | ~$10,931 | ~$19,224 | ~$41,847 | ~$63,440 |
| Typical Services | Housework, shopping, transport. | Personal care, cleaning, medical support. | More frequent personal care and medical support. | Intensive nursing, dementia, and palliative care. |
| Hours of Support | Few hours per week. | Multiple visits per week. | More hours, several visits weekly. | Significant hours, often daily assistance. |
The Future: Support at Home Program
The current HCP program will be replaced by the new Support at Home program from 1 November 2025. This will involve changes to how home care support and funding are structured. Individuals with an existing HCP will transition to the new program. For the latest information on these changes and Australian aged care services, visit the official My Aged Care website.
Conclusion
A Level 4 home care package is a vital resource for older Australians with complex care requirements, providing extensive support to enable them to live independently at home. Offering comprehensive services from nursing to domestic help, this highest-level package ensures complex needs are met. Understanding the services, eligibility, and the upcoming shift to the Support at Home program is key to navigating the aged care system and securing appropriate support.
