Understanding the New Support at Home Program and What it Means for You

From 1 November 2025, the way Australians access in-home aged care will change with the introduction of the Support at Home (SAH) program. Replacing the current Home Care Packages (HCP) model, the new program aims to make aged care simpler, more flexible, and more focused on individual goals and wellbeing.

For many people and their families, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to funding and support. Whether you already receive care or are just beginning to explore your options, Life Care can guide you through the transition.

What Is the Support at Home Program?

Support at Home is designed to help older Australians live independently at home for longer, with a focus on wellness, reablement, and choice. It allows for more tailored care plans that reflect your lifestyle and goals, from everyday assistance and health support to social connection and mobility.

For Those Currently Receiving a Home Care Package

If you’re already receiving services through a Home Care Package, your support will continue under the new program. You don’t need to be reassessed, unless your needs change, and your current funding level will stay the same.

Here’s what’s changing:

Simpler pricing. Care management and administrative costs are now included in each service price.
Dedicated support. 10% of your total funding will continue to be set aside personalised for Care Management, ensuring your plan remains aligned with your goals.
Quarterly budgets. Your annual budget will now be provided quarterly. Unspent funds from your quarterly budget will be limited to either $1,000 or 10%, whichever is higher.
Unspent funds roll over. Any remaining funds will transfer directly to your Support at Home budget.

Your Care Manager will talk through these updates and share your new Service Agreement, Support Plan, and Price List.

For Those Exploring In-Home Support for the First Time

If you or a loved one are beginning to explore in-home care, now is the right time to reach out.

Once you’ve received an approval through My Aged Care, Life Care can help guide you and begin shaping your personalised Support Plan.

This plan will:

Clearly outline your individual goals, focusing on what matters most to you for your health, independence and quality of life.
The types of support available to help achieve those goals.
How your plan will be regularly reviewed to ensure it continues to meet your needs.

A Program That Supports Both Individuals and Families

The new system recognises that care often involves more than one person. It supports open communication between you, your family, and your care team, creating a partnership built on trust and understanding.

With eight levels of support ranging from entry-level to complex care, Support at Home can adjust as your needs change, giving both you and your loved ones reassurance that you’ll always receive the right level of care.

Understanding the New Levels of Support

Under the new program, there will be eight levels of care, compared to four under the Home Care Package model.

This change allows for more flexibility and ensures the right level of support is available at the right time.

These range from entry-level assistance with daily tasks through to complex care for people with higher or evolving needs. Your assessment through My Aged Care will help determine which level best suits your circumstances.

Services Available Under Support at Home

Services under the program are grouped into three main categories:

Clinical Support – Nursing, allied health and care management services, fully funded by the government.
Independence – Assistance with daily tasks, personal care, and social engagement, enhancing your quality of life as you age in place with dignity. Participants may pay a portion of the service cost.
Everyday Living – Support with daily tasks such as cleaning, gardening, and meal preparation. Participants contribute a higher percentage of the service cost for these non-clinical supports.

In addition, there are specialised funding schemes within the Support at Home program available for those who need targeted support.

Assistive Technology and Home Modifications – Funding for items like mobility aids, communication devices, and home modifications that enhance safety and accessibility.
Restorative Care – Short-term, goal orientated therapy designed to help regain strength and independence after illness, or hospital stays, or functional decline.
End-of-Life Care – Compassionate palliative support delivered in the comfort of your home.

What About Carers?

The Support at Home program also recognises the essential role that carers play.

It provides access to resources, respite options, and support programs that help carers maintain their own well-being while continuing to care for others.

This balanced approach ensures both individuals and their carers feel supported, informed, and empowered.

Why Talk to Life Care Now

With the introduction of Support at Home, older South Australians and their families will have more control, flexibility, and transparency than ever before. But as with any major change, planning early makes a difference.

If you or someone you care for is already receiving home care or beginning to explore support options, now is the time to start the conversation.

We can help you understand the new program and create a plan that reflects your goals, your lifestyle, and your independence.

Because while the program may be changing, the purpose remains the same: supporting you to shape your own positive ageing lifestyle.

If you or a loved one has questions about the Support at Home program, contact Life Care on 1300 555 220.