Home help services provide practical support so people can live safely and comfortably at home. This guide explains what’s included, who it helps most, typical costs, and how to choose a provider.

What are home help services?

Home help services (sometimes called in-home help, companionship, help around the home or domestic assistance) are non-clinical supports delivered in someone’s home. They focus on everyday tasks that maintain independence and quality of life.

What’s included in home help services?

Most providers offer a mix of practical household and daily-living support services, including domestic assistance, meal preparation, personal care, travel and transport and a range of personalised support services to enrich the lives of participants, their families and supporters.

Household support

  • Light cleaning (vacuuming, mopping, bathrooms, kitchen)
  • Laundry and ironing
  • Changing bed linen
  • Dishwashing, tidying, rubbish removal
  • Basic home organisation

Meal support 

Also referred to as Meal preparation, can include:

  • Meal preparation in the home
  • Cooking simple, nutritious meals
  • Portioning and storing meals for later
  • Help with grocery lists and unpacking

Shopping and errands

Also referred to as Travel and Transport, can include:

  • Grocery shopping
  • Picking up prescriptions
  • Post office or banking runs
  • Simple local errands

Support with daily routines

Also referred to as Community Participation or social and community support, and this can include:

  • Help to keep up with daily tasks
  • Finding and participating in activities you enjoy
  • Maintaining connections with the local community
  • Support during short walks for confidence

Who can benefit from home help?

  • Older Australians who want to stay at home longer
  • People living with disability who need practical support
  • Anyone recovering from surgery or illness
  • Family carers looking for reliable backup
  • People with reduced mobility or low energy

What does home help cost?

Costs vary depending on location, visit length, and whether support is on weekdays or weekends. To compare providers fairly, ask about hourly rates, minimum visit times, and any additional fees.

How to choose a home help provider

  1. Safety and screening: ask about police checks, training, and insurance.
  2. Local: faster, more personal help and team members who are based in or near where you live, with an understanding of the local area and your day-to-day needs.
  3. Consistency: look for a provider who introduces you to a small, regular care team.
  4. Personalised support: avoid one-size-fits-all, you deserve to be treated as an individual.
  5. Clear communication:  scheduling and changes should be easy. A quality provider will keep you informed and clearly outline the process if you need to make a change.
  6. Fit and respect: carers should feel reliable and comfortable in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours do people usually start with?

This all depends on your assessed needs and individual circumstances. Typically, 1–3 hours per week for cleaning or meal support, but this varies widely.

Can home help be short-term?

Yes.  Support can be provided on a short- or long-term basis, and as often or infrequently as required. 

Do I get the same Support Worker each time?

Often yes. Ask your provider about their commitment to continuity and introducing you to a "care team" which is a group of familiar faces