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Queensland Community Support Scheme (QCSS) is a government program that provides low-intensity, practical support to people under 65 (or under 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) who are not eligible for the NDIS but still need help to live independently and stay connected to their community.
You don’t need a referral. You can call the QCSS Access Point on 1800 600 300 or fill out the self-registration form, complete an assessment, and be matched with a local provider.
What is the Queensland Community Support Scheme?
The Queensland Community Support Scheme supports people who don’t qualify for the NDIS and are not yet eligible for My Aged Care, but still struggle with daily living due to disability, chronic illness, mental health conditions, or other challenges.
QCSS provides “low-intensity” support, but it can make a meaningful difference for people who need help with everyday tasks. It follows a “doing with, not doing for” approach, focusing on supporting you to build skills and independence rather than doing everything for you.
QCSS replaced the older Community Alternatives Program (CAP), creating a single, unified model with one central access point and standardised support across Queensland.
Who is eligible for the Queensland Community Support Scheme?
You may qualify if you:
- Are under 65 (or under 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
- Are not eligible for the NDIS
- Have a disability, chronic illness, mental health condition, or similar support need
- Live independently in the community (not in residential aged care or institutional care)
No formal diagnosis required. No GP referral. You simply need to show that you need daily support and aren’t already funded through another program.
Who is not eligible?
- If you’re 65 or over (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people).
- If you’re NDIS-eligible.
- If you require clinical or medical care (nursing, rehab, palliative care).
What Does QCSS Cover?
QCSS supports practical, non-medical help across 3 key areas:
Support at home
- Meal preparation and planning, including access to senior meal delivery
- Cleaning, laundry, and general housework, similar to House Cleaning Services for Seniors
- Personal care (showering, dressing, hygiene support)
- Yard maintenance for safety and access
Community access
- Transport support to shops, appointments, or services
- Assistance attending community or social activities
- Attending appointments
- Support to maintain social connections
Skill-building and independence
- Learning or rebuilding daily living skills
- Building confidence and self-management
- Support to reduce social isolation
- Goal-based planning tailored to your needs
How Long Does QCSS Support Last?
QCSS is time-limited, not permanent funding. Support is usually provided in six-month periods.
At the end of each period, your provider reviews:
- Your progress
- Changes in your independence
- Whether ongoing support is needed
If required, support can continue in further six-month blocks.
QCSS Funding and Costs
QCSS is government-funded, but participants may be asked to contribute a small co-payment based on income and circumstances.
Key points:
- Fee relief is available for those in financial hardship
- Provider fees cannot exceed the actual service delivery costs
- No one is excluded due to inability to pay
If cost is a concern, discuss it during your assessment.
How to Apply for QCSS
Step 1: Check eligibility
Under 65 (or under 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)? Not NDIS-eligible? You’re ready to apply.
Step 2: Contact the QCSS Access Point
This is the entry point for all applicants:
- Phone: 1800 600 300 or (07) 3028 9360
- Online: QCSS Access Point
- Email: QCSSaccesspoint@ozcare.org.au
Step 3: Complete your assessment
An assessor will discuss your daily challenges, goals, and support needs. This is a conversation, not a test. Be open about what you struggle with so support can be matched accurately.
Step 4: Provider matching
If eligible, you’ll be linked to an approved local QCSS provider who will develop a personalised support plan with you.
Step 5: Start receiving support
Services run during standard business hours, Monday to Friday. Your QCSS provider will assign a consistent support worker.
If you exit the scheme and return later, you must reapply through the QCSS Access Point.
Are You an Older Queenslander?
If you’re over 65 (or an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person over 50), QCSS isn’t the right fit. Instead, you may be eligible for the Support at Home Program, which provides ongoing care and assistance tailored to older Australians. If you’re unsure where to start, we at Burdel can help you understand your options and connect with the right support service.
