Home Care Packages are designed to provide older Australians with a personalised range of services to support their independence and improve quality of life at home. Through a Home Care Package, recipients have the flexibility to tailor care to their needs—whether fully managed by a provider or self-managed.
Self-managing a Home Care Package is an increasingly popular option that gives customers more control over how their funding is spent and which providers they choose. At Just Better Care, we specialise in person-centred care and work closely with our customers to ensure their support plans truly add value and meet their unique lifestyle goals.
In this article, we explore the key benefits and considerations of self-managing a Home Care Package so you can decide what’s best for your situation.
Benefits of Self-Managing a Home Care Package
1. Greater Flexibility and Control
One of the main benefits of a self-managed Home Care Package is the increased autonomy it offers. You or your family can coordinate services that are tailored to your preferences, needs, and lifestyle. This includes selecting and scheduling care workers, allied health professionals, or independent contractors of your choosing.
Just Better Care supports self-managing customers by helping ensure any providers you engage meet government compliance and safety standards.
2. More Choice of Service Providers
Self-management allows you to select from a wider range of service providers, including those outside your provider’s usual network. If a provider doesn’t meet your expectations, you have the freedom to switch at any time—giving you more control over the quality of care you receive.
3. Potential Cost Savings
Choosing to self-manage your Home Care Package may reduce overall fees. Many customers benefit from:
- Lower care and package management fees
- The ability to negotiate rates directly with care providers
- Greater visibility and control over how funding is used
Your service agreement will clearly outline your responsibilities as a self-managed customer and what Just Better Care will support you with behind the scenes.
Support When Self-Managing Your Home Care Package
1. Navigating Extra Responsibilities
Self-managing a package means you’ll take on additional tasks such as budgeting, coordinating care, paying invoices, and record-keeping. It can feel overwhelming at first, but you're not alone.
If you're unsure where to begin, the My Aged Care website offers a helpful directory of local aged care providers. If you opt for full provider management with Just Better Care, we’ll handle all administration, freeing up your time and energy.
2. Expert Guidance When You Need It
At Just Better Care, we support our self-managed customers with practical tips and advice on how to:
- Work with independent support workers and allied health providers
- Manage your care budget effectively
- Develop and adjust your personalised care plan
3. Ongoing Support to Stay on Track
When you're part of the Just Better Care community, you have access to our experienced Home Care Package and Finance team whenever you need it. We encourage regular check-ins with your Home Care Package Advisor to help you:
- Assess new products or services for eligibility
- Ensure your purchases align with Home Care Package guidelines
- Adapt your care plan as your needs change
Is Self-Managing a Home Care Package Right for You?
Self-managing a Home Care Package is ideal for individuals who want to be more hands-on with their care arrangements and are comfortable taking on some additional administrative tasks. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
At Just Better Care, we’re here to support you whether you choose to self-manage or opt for full provider management. Our team of Home Care Package Advisors is available to guide you through the process and help you make the most of your government-funded care.
Talk to Our Team
If you're exploring the option to self-manage your Home Care Package or want more information about how we can support you, contact Just Better Care today.
We’re ready to help you take the next step with confidence and clarity.
