Who are the top home care providers in Australia? A comprehensive guide

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, most older Australians receiving care access it in their homes. Navigating this growing landscape to find the right support is a crucial step for many families, so understanding who are the top home care providers in Australia is a vital starting point.

Quick Summary

Australian Unity, Bolton Clarke, and BaptistCare are among the country's leading providers, offering a range of government-funded Home Care Packages and private services. Choosing the right provider depends on individual care needs, location, and preferred services, with resources like My Aged Care available to assist.

Key Points

• Top Providers: Australian Unity is a major market leader, alongside other key players like Bolton Clarke, BaptistCare, and Anglicare.

• Funding System: Government-subsidised home care is accessed via My Aged Care through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) for basic needs and Home Care Packages (HCP) for more complex needs.

• Upcoming Changes: The aged care system is set to be reformed with the 'Support at Home' program, which will replace the current HCP system from November 2025.

• Choosing Wisely: Compare providers on cost transparency, range of services, staff quality, and specialisations to find the best fit for your personal needs and circumstances.

• Government Resources: The official My Aged Care website is the central resource for finding providers, accessing assessments, and managing government-funded home care support.

Key players in the Australian home care market

The Australian home care sector includes many reputable providers, with market analyses identifying major players. While Australian Unity holds a significant market share following an acquisition, other established providers are also highly regarded.

Prominent home care organisations

Among the notable providers in Australia are:

• Australian Unity: A major provider known for comprehensive care packages.
• Bolton Clarke: Offers extensive aged care and community support services.
• BaptistCare: Focuses on a compassionate, holistic approach to care.
• Anglicare: Provides diverse home care, including specialized dementia support.
• Uniting: Known for inclusive, client-centered care and technology support.
• Right at Home: Offers a wide range of services, including complex and 24/7 care.

The Australian aged care funding system: HCP and CHSP

Government-subsidised home care is accessed through two main programs via My Aged Care.

Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)

This program offers basic, entry-level support for individuals needing limited assistance to remain independent. It typically covers one or two tasks on a short-term or ongoing basis.

Home Care Packages (HCP)

HCPs provide coordinated care for those with more complex needs. There are four levels, each providing different funding amounts for various services.

The transition to 'Support at Home'

A new 'Support at Home' program will replace HCP and Short-Term Restorative Care from November 1, 2025, aiming to simplify the system and offer more personalised support.

Comparison of leading home care providers

Feature	Australian Unity	Bolton Clarke	BaptistCare	Uniting	Right at Home
Key Service Focus	Comprehensive, all-inclusive packages	Holistic community support	Values-based and pastoral care	Inclusive, technology-focused support	Specialised complex and 24/7 care
Service Scope	Personal care, domestic help, health services, social support	In-home care, nursing, allied health, retirement living	Personal care, nursing, home maintenance, transport	Home & garden, personal care, technology, cultural support	Housekeeping, complex care, dementia support, 24/7 care
Funding Accepted	HCP, CHSP, NDIS, private funding	HCP, CHSP, NDIS, private funding	HCP, CHSP, NDIS, private funding	HCP, CHSP, NDIS, private funding	HCP, CHSP, NDIS, private funding
Approach	Person-centred care, custom plans	Empowering independence	Focus on physical, emotional, spiritual needs	Innovative, culturally diverse services	Right care, right at home philosophy

How to choose the right home care provider for you

Selecting a home care provider involves considering your needs, location, and finances.

1. Assess Your Needs: Start with a My Aged Care assessment to determine eligibility for government funding and the required support level.
2. Use My Aged Care's 'Find a provider' tool: This government website allows you to search for and compare local providers, their services, costs, and contact information.
3. Compare Costs: Examine care and package management fees and hourly rates. Transparent pricing is key.
4. Evaluate Staff: Ask about staff hiring, background checks, and training. Quality carers are vital.
5. Consider Specialisations: Look for providers with expertise in specific conditions if needed.
6. Seek Flexibility and Communication: Ensure the provider offers flexible scheduling and good communication.

Conclusion: Finding the right fit for your home care needs

Choosing a home care provider is a personal decision based on individual needs. While major national providers like Australian Unity, Bolton Clarke, and BaptistCare offer extensive services, local options are also available. My Aged Care provides government oversight and resources to help you find and compare suitable options.

By using official resources and comparing providers on services, costs, and quality, you can make an informed choice for independent living. Stay updated on future changes like the 'Support at Home' program. Visit the official My Aged Care website to start your search.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find out who are the top home care providers in Australia?

You can find a list of approved providers and their details on the official My Aged Care website. You can also use the site's provider comparison tool to find and compare options in your local area based on services offered and costs.

What is the difference between the Commonwealth Home Support Programme and a Home Care Package?

The CHSP provides entry-level, basic support for those with low-level needs, such as help with one or two tasks. A Home Care Package offers a more comprehensive, coordinated set of services for individuals with more complex care requirements.

Will the 'Support at Home' program affect home care providers in Australia?

Yes, the 'Support at Home' program, beginning November 2025, will replace existing schemes like Home Care Packages. It is expected to create a more streamlined system and may influence market consolidation and new entrants.

How much does home care cost in Australia?

Costs vary, but the government subsidises services through funded packages. Your contribution may include a basic daily fee and an income-tested care fee, based on a formal income assessment. Providers also have individual pricing for services.

How do I apply for government-funded home care?

The process begins by applying for an assessment through My Aged Care, either online or over the phone. An assessor will evaluate your needs to determine your eligibility for CHSP or a Home Care Package.

Can I choose my home care provider?

Yes, under the consumer-directed care model, you have the right to choose your provider from the list of government-approved organisations. You can also switch providers if your needs or preferences change.

How can I compare costs and fees between home care providers?

The My Aged Care website lists each provider's costs, including care management and package management fees. It's important to compare these administration fees and the hourly rates for specific services to find the most cost-effective option.