Understanding the Home Care Package Program
The Home Care Package (HCP) Program is an Australian Government-funded initiative to help older Australians with complex care needs remain at home. Unlike the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), which provides entry-level support, HCPs offer a coordinated and flexible range of services tailored to individual needs. These services can include personal care, domestic assistance, nursing support, and transport, helping maintain independence and quality of life.
Core Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for a Home Care Package hinges on meeting specific criteria related to age, residency, and, most importantly, your assessed care needs. A formal assessment is mandatory to confirm eligibility and determine the required support level.
Age and Demographic Criteria
The standard age for eligibility is 65 years or older. However, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, it is 50 years or older. People aged 50 or older (45+ for First Nations people) on a low income and at risk of homelessness may also qualify. Younger individuals with disability or dementia whose needs aren't met by programs like the NDIS may also be eligible.
Residency Requirements
Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or hold a specific visa allowing access to government-subsidised aged care services.
Assessed Care Needs
A critical factor is demonstrating a need for coordinated services to live safely and independently at home. An assessment evaluates physical, medical, and cognitive needs, focusing on the ability to manage daily tasks. Common triggers for assessment include changes in managing tasks, new medical conditions, recent hospitalisation, falls, or changes in family care arrangements.
The Home Care Package Application Process
Accessing a Home Care Package is managed through My Aged Care, the Australian Government's central point for aged care services.
- Register with My Aged Care: Start by contacting My Aged Care via phone or website to create a client record, providing personal details and an overview of your situation. Assistance is available from family or friends.
- Referral for Assessment: Based on your initial contact, My Aged Care will refer you for a comprehensive assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).
- Undergo an ACAT Assessment: An ACAT assessor will meet with you, usually at home, to discuss your health, living environment, and daily activities to understand your care needs.
- Receive Your Assessment Outcome: You'll receive a letter from My Aged Care confirming approval for a Home Care Package and the assigned care level.
- Placement in the National Priority System: If approved, you join the National Priority System (NPS). Wait times depend on your assessed priority level (medium or high) and approval date.
- Package Assignment: When a package is available, My Aged Care will notify you, providing a referral code for your chosen HCP provider.
- Choose a Provider and Create a Care Plan: Select a provider and work with them to develop a personalised care plan outlining your services. The My Aged Care website is a valuable resource for finding providers: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/help-at-home/home-care-packages.
Home Care Package Levels: A Comparison
As of September 2025, HCPs are offered at four levels, with funding linked to assessed care needs. These levels match government subsidies to the complexity of individual requirements. A new system with eight levels is planned for November 2025 with the Support at Home Program.
| Package Level | Level of Care Needs | Example Annual Subsidy (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Basic care needs | $10,931.75 |
| Level 2 | Low care needs | $19,224.55 |
| Level 3 | Intermediate care needs | $41,847.25 |
| Level 4 | High care needs | $63,440.65 |
Fees and Costs
Your HCP budget includes the government subsidy and any applicable fees. Fees may consist of:
- Basic Daily Fee: A standard fee some providers charge. It's advisable to compare providers as not all charge this fee.
- Income Tested Care Fee: An additional fee based on your income, determined by Services Australia. Full pensioners and those on lower incomes are often exempt.
The Difference Between CHSP and HCP
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) provides entry-level or basic ongoing support, like weekly cleaning. Home Care Packages are for those with more complex, coordinated care needs. It is possible to receive CHSP services while waiting for an HCP.
Preparing for an Aged Care Assessment
Preparation for an assessment involves gathering information about your health, living situation, challenges with daily activities, and existing support. Being open and thorough helps the assessor accurately determine your care needs and appropriate package level.
What if Circumstances Change?
If your care needs increase while on a lower-level HCP, you can request a reassessment through My Aged Care to be considered for a higher-level package. If you accept an interim lower package, you remain in the queue for a higher level.
Conclusion
Eligibility for a Home Care Package in Australia is determined by a formal aged care assessment, initiated through My Aged Care. The assessment evaluates age, residency, and crucially, your need for coordinated support to live independently at home. Understanding these criteria allows you to navigate the application process effectively and access the necessary government-subsidised support.
