From 1 November 2025, the Australian Government’s new Support at Home program will replace Home Care Packages (HCP).

If you're already receiving a Home Care Package, you’ll transition smoothly — we’ll support you every step of the way.

What Changes for You?

• No reassessment required (for many): If your HCP was approved before 12 September 2024, you’ll be transitioned into a Support at Home classification that aligns with your current funding level. Your contribution won’t be higher than what you pay now.
• New funding model: You’ll receive a quarterly budget rather than an annual one.
• Carry-over of unspent funds: All existing unspent HCP funds will transfer across. Going forward, you can carry over up to 10% of your quarterly budget or $1,000 (whichever is greater).
• Capped care management fee: Care management will be capped at 10% of your funding classification (rather than separate package management fees).
• Contribution adjustments: While clinical supports remain fully funded, independence and everyday living services will require a means-tested contribution based on your income. 

If you were approved after 12 September 2024?

In this case:

• You will be assessed under the new Support at Home model to assign a classification.
• Your funding will immediately adopt the Support at Home contribution structure.
• Your budget will be provided quarterly from the outset.
• Your existing unspent HCP funds (up until 31 October 2025) will also transfer into your new budget.

Unspent Funds: What You Should Know?

Your current unspent funds from your HCP will carry into your Support at Home budget in full. These can be used for approved services, assistive technology, or home modifications.

After moving to Support at Home, the amount you can carry over each quarter is capped — either 10% of your quarterly support budget or $1,000, whichever is greater.

How are your contributions changing?

Support at Home continues to use a co-contribution model. How much you contribute will depend on your pension status and the type of service you receive.

• Clinical Supports (such as nursing or allied health) remain fully funded by the government — you won’t pay anything, regardless of your income or pension status.

• Independence Services (such as personal care, transportation, or assistance with shopping), you may be required to make a moderate contribution.

• Everyday Living Services (such as cleaning, gardening, and meal preparation) will require a higher level of contribution

Importantly, if your Home Care Package was approved before 12 September 2024, you will never be asked to pay more than what you would have under your existing package.

Additionally;

• You don’t need to do anything to request this transition — it will happen automatically.
• You also won’t need a new assessment if you already hold a Home Care Package (approved before 12 September 2024).
• When the time comes, you’ll simply be asked to sign a new service agreement that aligns with the updated Aged Care Act.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my unspent HCP funds?

No — they’ll carry over. Only new funds under Support at Home will be subject to the carry-over cap.

Can I still self-manage?

Yes — self-management is still an option. Your Care Partner will support you with guidance throughout.

Will care management or package fees still apply?

Providers cannot charge a separate package management fee. The care management fee (capped at 10%) is now built into your service pricing.

What about my supplements (e.g. oxygen, dementia, veterans supplements)?

They will remain under your Support at Home funds as they are now.

How We’ll Support You Through the Change

We know change can feel overwhelming — comfort and certainty matter. That’s why we will:

• Keep you informed every step of the way with clear, timely communications.
• Offer personal support through your Care Partner, who will walk you through any questions or adjustments needed.
• Ensure your care plan remains guided by *your needs*, not funding constraints.

At Just Better Care, we believe you deserve care that evolves with your life. Our commitment: to help you live independently, with dignity, and feel supported every day.

If you have questions or would like to talk through your specific situation, contact your local Just Better Care office