by: Kate Fisher
With the new Aged Care Act commencing on 1 November 2025, Australia’s aged care sector is entering a new chapter. For home and community care providers, the introduction of the Support at Home Program is a key part of this change. It aims to simplify how people access care, ensure funding better matches individual needs, and strengthen the quality and accountability of services (Department of Health and Aged Care [DoHAC], 2025a).
The Support at Home Program will replace both the Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs from November 2025. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) will continue as-is for now, with transition not expected before July 2027 (DoHAC, 2025a).
A major change for providers is the move to a classification-based funding model. There will be eight ongoing funding levels, ranging from approximately $11,000 to $78,000 per year, as well as short-term classifications for restorative care and end-of-life support. These levels are based on assessments of functional, cognitive, psychosocial, and clinical needs using a new Independent Assessment Tool (DoHAC, 2025a).
Care management will be formalised as a distinct service type. This includes supporting the older person to set care goals, coordinate services, and review progress. For many providers, this will mean reviewing existing models of service delivery and considering how to provide clear, goal-directed care planning that aligns with participants’ rights and preferences (DoHAC, 2025b).
The program also introduces a national Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme. Eligible participants will be able to access products and equipment, or minor home modifications, to help them live safely and independently at home. Funding allocations will be capped over a 12-month period and guided by professional assessment (DoHAC, 2025a).
There is also a dedicated end-of-life pathway. For individuals with a terminal diagnosis and an expected life span of less than three months, the program provides up to $25,000 in additional funding over 12 weeks, in recognition of the increased support often needed at this time and to help Australian’s pass away with dignity at home(DoHAC, 2025a).
Importantly, the program also seeks to make fees and contributions simpler and fairer. Clinical services will be free of charge, while other services may attract capped, income-tested fees. There will also be a hardship process to ensure older people are not excluded from necessary care due to financial barriers (DoHAC, 2025a).
Regulatory changes will also impact home and community providers. All services will need to be registered under the new Aged Care Regulatory Model. Registration categories will be determined by the type and risk profile of services delivered. Providers will also need to comply with the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, which include stronger requirements for supported decision-making, cultural safety, trauma-informed care, and workforce capability (DoHAC, 2025c). Considering these reforms, now is the time for providers to prepare. Reviewing your service offerings, understanding the new assessment and classification model, and ensuring your team is ready to deliver care in line with the new expectations will be key. Engaging older people in these conversations now can also help ease the transition and ensure continuity of care.
These changes are not just about new systems and structures, they’re about delivering care that reflects what older people have said they want: to live independently, with dignity, and on their own terms.
You can catch up on our latest webinar for practical guidance on our website. You can also let us, DVE Business Solutions, support your transition with clarity, confidence, and care. Get in touch to book a complimentary discovery session today. Email us at info@dvesolutions.com.au.
