Navigating the aged care system can feel overwhelming, especially when you or a loved one need support to continue living independently at home. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) offers a lifeline for many older Australians, providing essential services to maintain independence and quality of life.
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for the CHSP, from understanding what it offers to completing your application successfully.
What is CHSP?
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme, commonly called CHSP, is an Australian Government initiative designed to help older people live independently in their homes for as long as possible. It provides entry-level home made support for older people who need assistance with daily tasks but don’t yet need more complex care provided through Home Care Packages.
Eligibility Criteria for CHSP
Before beginning the application process, it’s important to understand if you qualify for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme. Eligibility requires you to be:
- 65 years or older, or 50 years or older if you’re an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.
- Live at home
- Need some help to continue living independently
- Not already be receiving services through other government-funded aged care programs like a Home Care Package or residential aged care
It’s worth noting that the CHSP is designed for those needing lower levels of support. If your needs are more complex, you might be better suited to a Home Care Package or other forms of care.
Services Offered Under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme
The CHSP offers a diverse range of services tailored to meet diverse needs, including personal care. Understanding what’s available can help you identify which services might benefit you most during the application process.
1. Home Maintenance and Modifications
Aged care home maintenance services are a crucial component of the CHSP, helping to keep your living environment safe and suitable for your needs. These services include:
- Minor home repairs and maintenance
- Garden maintenance
- Installation of safety aids like grab rails, ramps, or bath aids
- Home modifications to improve safety and accessibility
2. Transport Services
Maintaining your independence often depends on being able to get around your community. CHSP transport services can help you:
- Attend medical appointments
- Go shopping for essentials
- Participate in social activities
- Connect with community services
3. Social Support Programs including NAIDOC Week Activities
Social connection is vital for mental health and quality of life. The CHSP offers social support through:
- Group activities and outings
- Individual companionship
- Community engagement programs
- Culturally specific activities like NAIDOC week activities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants
Comparison Between CHSP and Other Programs
CHSP vs Home Care Packages
While both the difference between CHSP and HCP provide in-home support, they differ in several keyways:
| Aspect | CHSP | HCP |
| Level of Care | Entry-level, basic support | Four levels of coordinated care packages |
| Funding Model | Block-funded services with subsidised fees | Consumer-directed care with individualised budgets |
| Eligibility Assessment | Regional Assessment Service (RAS) | Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) |
| Waiting Period | Generally shorter | May have significant waiting lists |
| Service Intensity | Occasional, specific services | Ongoing, coordinated care |
The CHSP is typically the first step in the aged care journey, with many people progressing to Home Care Packages as their needs increase over time.
CHSP Respite Care vs NDIS Respite Care
Many people confuse CHSP services with NDIS respite care, but these programs serve different purposes and populations:
| CHSP Respite Care | NDIS Respite Care |
| For older Australians (65+) | For people with disability under 65 |
| Focus on age-related support needs | Focus on disability-related support needs |
| Administered through My Aged Care | Administered through the National Disability Insurance Agency |
| Entry-level support services | Can include more intensive respite support |
If you’re primarily seeking home made support due to age-related needs, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme is your appropriate pathway. However, if you’re under 65 with a disability, NDIS services may be more suitable.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Contact My Aged Care
The journey to accessing Commonwealth Home Support Programme CHSP services begins with the Australian Government’s entry point to the aged care system. Here’s how to get started:
- Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 (weekdays 8am-8pm, Saturdays 10am-2pm)
- Visit the website (myagedcare.gov.au)
- Have someone call on your behalf (you’ll need to give permission)
During this initial contact, you’ll need to provide:
- Your Medicare card details
- Basic personal information
- A general overview of your needs and circumstances
The My Aged Care staff will create a client record for you and discuss your situation to determine the next steps.
Step 2: Assessment Process
Once you’ve contacted My Aged Care and indicated your interest in Commonwealth Home Support Programme services, you’ll be referred for an assessment:
- A Regional Assessment Service assessor will contact you to arrange a face-to-face assessment in your home.
- During the assessment, the assessor will discuss your needs, goals, and preferences.
- They’ll look at what you can do independently and where you might benefit from support.
- The assessor will also consider your home environment and available support networks.
This assessment is conversational and collaborative—it’s about understanding how to best support your independence, not just identifying limitations.
Important: Be honest during this assessment about your actual needs, as understating challenges can result in insufficient support.
Step 3: Service Approval and Provider Selection
After your assessment, if you’re eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme CHSP:
- You’ll receive formal approval for specific CHSP services.
- My Aged Care will provide a list of CHSP service providers in your area.
- You can contact these providers to discuss their services, availability, and fees.
- You can choose which provider you want to deliver your approved services.
When selecting providers, consider factors like:
- Service quality and reputation
- Fee structures
- Cultural appropriateness
- Availability for your preferred times
- Special programs like those offered during NAIDOC week activities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients
Step 4: Beginning Your Services
Once you’ve selected your preferred provider:
- The provider will contact you to discuss service details.
- You’ve to sign a Home Support Agreement outlining the services, fees, and other arrangements.
- You’ll work with the provider to schedule your services.
- Services will begin according to the agreed schedule.
Remember: The Commonwealth Home Support Programme emphasises flexibility and client choice, so you can discuss adjustments to your services as your needs change over time.
Tips for a Successful Application
Based on experience working with the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, here are some practical tips to help your application process go smoothly:
- Understand the scope of CHSP: Remember that the Commonwealth Home Support Programme provides entry-level support—if your needs are more complex, you might need to explore government funded home care services
- Prepare information in advance: Before calling My Aged Care, gather your Medicare card, contact details, and notes about your current challenges and needs.
- Be honest about your needs: The assessment is designed to identify appropriate support, so understating your challenges may result in insufficient services.
- Consider having an advocate: A family member or friend can support you during the assessment and help ensure all your needs are discussed.
- Think about your goals: The CHSP focuses on wellness and reablement, so consider what activities or independence you want to maintain or regain.
- Research local providers: Look into the reputation and specialties of CHSP providers in your area before making selections.
Still Feeling Unsure About Applying for CHSP?
If you’re still uncertain whether you qualify for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme or how to get started—you don’t have to navigate it alone. Bur-del is here to help.
We specialise in delivering personalised, culturally appropriate care that helps older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals live independently, with dignity and confidence. From guiding you through the My Aged Care process to delivering approved services like transport, personal care, and social support—we’re with you every step of the way.
Contact Bur-del Home Support Today!
Don’t wait to get the Aged care in Burdekin support you deserve. Contact us today for a personalised consultation and let us guide you through your CHSP journey.
