As we or our loved ones start ageing, even simple daily tasks can feel challenging. That’s where Government Funded Home Care Services come in. In Australia, these services are designed to help older individuals live independently in their own homes for as long as possible. From simple tasks like meal preparation and cleaning to advanced nursing support, you’ll find aged care home services designed to fit diverse needs.
At Burdel, we provide personalised care solutions that align with Australia’s government-supported aged care system. This blog explores the types of Government Funded Home Care Services available, how to access them, and what you can expect.
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) serves as an entry-level program, offering basic support services for older Australians who need a little help to stay independent at home. It’s designed for those who require only a few services, or occasional support, rather than ongoing, comprehensive care.
Who is Eligible for CHSP?
To be eligible for CHSP, you generally need to be 65 or older (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people). Exceptions apply to those aged 50 years or older (or 45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) who are on a low income and are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Eligibility is determined through an aged care assessment, which also identifies the specific services you might need.
CHSP Eligibility Calculator
What Services Does CHSP Offer?
The CHSP provides a wide array of services aimed at maintaining your independence and quality of life. These include:
- Personal care: Assistance with bathing, hygiene, and grooming.
- Domestic assistance: Assistance with chores such as cleaning and laundry.
- Meal preparation: Support with nutritious meals.
- Nursing and allied health care: Therapies like podiatry and physiotherapy to help you stay mobile and active.
- Home and garden maintenance: Practical help to keep your home safe and accessible.
- Aids and equipment: Resources to help you stay independent.
- Transport: Assistance with appointments and social outings.
- Social support: Opportunities for social engagement and community participation, including group activities.
- Respite care: Day or overnight NDIS respite care options for carers.
- Homelessness support: Specific assistance for eligible older people who are homeless or at risk.
CHSP Costs
The Australian Government helps cover the cost of CHSP services, and individuals contribute based on their financial ability. The amount you contribute depends on your income and the type and number of services you receive. Simpler services generally cost less than more complex ones. Providers have clear policies to ensure transparency regarding fees and to protect vulnerable individuals from financial hardship.
Good news: Your pension remains unaffected when you receive CHSP services.
Home Care Packages (HCP)
For older Australians who need more support, Home Care Packages offer a higher level of coordinated care. These packages are designed to allow you to remain living safely and independently in your home, offering a more extensive range of services than the CHSP.
Home Care Package Eligibility
To be eligible for a Home Care Package, you must generally be an older person aged 65 or over (or 50 and over for First Nations people) who requires coordinated services to stay at home. Younger people with a disability, dementia, or other care needs not met by specialist services may also be eligible. Your eligibility is based on an assessment of your care needs, and your financial situation does not affect your eligibility, though an income assessment may be required to determine your personal contributions.
What Can I Spend My Aged Care Package On?
One of the key benefits of Home Care Packages is their flexibility, allowing you to tailor services to your individual needs. If you’re asking, “What can I spend my aged care package on?” the options are extensive and include:
- Personal care: Help with everyday tasks like hygiene, grooming, and getting dressed.
- Nursing services: Clinical care provided by registered nurses.
- Allied health services: A range of therapies like podiatry, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy.
- Meal preparation and nutrition: Support with preparing and accessing nutritious meals.
- Mobility and dexterity: Aids and equipment to improve independence.
- Continence management: Support and products for continence.
- Dementia care: Dedicated support for those with dementia.
- Cleaning and household tasks: Help with domestic duties.
- Home and garden maintenance: Keeping your living environment safe and accessible.
- Home modifications: Minor structural changes to your home for safety and accessibility.
- Transport: Assistance with getting to appointments and community activities.
- Social support: Support to maintain social connections and participate in community life.
- Respite care: Provides day or overnight support, giving carers a chance to rest and recharge.
NOTE:
Home Care Package funds cannot be used for general living expenses (like rent or mortgage payments), permanent accommodation, payment of home care fees, services covered by Medicare or the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), or entertainment activities. All services must be directly linked to your identified care needs, improve your health and wellbeing, and contribute to your safe, independent living within your allocated budget.
Home Care Package Levels and Funding
Home Care Packages are available in four levels, each providing different funding amounts to suit individual care needs.
- Level 1: Basic care needs – provides approximately $10,931.75 per year.
- Level 2: Low care needs – provides approximately $19,224.55 per year.
- Level 3: Intermediate care needs – provides approximately $41,847.25 per year.
- Level 4: High care needs – provides approximately $63,440.65 per year.
Home Care Package Costs and Fees
While the government provides a significant subsidy for Home Care Packages, individuals are generally expected to contribute to the cost of their care if they can afford it. There are three main types of fees:
- Basic Daily Fee: This is a standard daily charge set by the government, and it changes based on the level of your care package. Full pensioners and those below a certain income threshold are typically exempt from this fee.
- Income-Tested Care Fee: Services Australia assesses this fee based on your income, but don’t worry – there are annual and lifetime caps to protect you from excessive costs. Full pensioners and those with incomes below specific thresholds are not required to pay this fee.
- Additional Service Fees: These fees apply to any extra services you agree upon with your provider that are not included in your standard package budget.
Providers must publish their full price lists for transparency, and financial hardship assistance is available for those who genuinely cannot afford their fees.
Support at Home Program
The Future of Government Funded Home Care Services
It’s important to note that Government Funded Home Care Services are set to change, with the new Support at Home program scheduled to replace the Home Care Package Program from November 1, 2025. This new program aims to simplify and improve the aged care system, introducing new funding arrangements and fee calculations. Staying informed about these changes will be beneficial for future planning.
How to Access Government Funded Home Care Services
Accessing Government Funded Home Care Services begins with contacting My Aged Care and registering for an assessment. An assessment will help determine which programs and services best suit your needs.At Burdel, we understand that navigating the aged care system can be complex. We are here to simplify the process for you, helping you understand your home care package eligibility and connecting you with the right Government Funded Home Care Services. Ready to get started? Contact Burdel today and we’ll ensure you receive the highest quality of personalised care.
