From 1 November 2025, the way in-home aged care is delivered across Australia will change. The new Support at Home program will replace both the Home Care Packages (HCP) program and the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) program as part of the government’s aged care reforms.
If you or a loved one currently receives support through either HCP or STRC, you don’t need to reapply. Services will continue, but you may notice changes in how your support is structured and managed.
At Catholic Healthcare, we are here to help you understand what to expect, what will stay the same, and how the changes may affect your care from day one.
What stays the same?
For most people already receiving home care, the transition will be automatic and straightforward. On day one of the program:
- You will not need to reapply for services
- Your support will continue without interruption
- Catholic Healthcare will remain your care provider
- Your current care team will continue to support you
- You will still receive services tailored to your assessed needs
Our team will work closely with you to ensure continuity of care and a smooth handover from the previous program to the new one.
What will be different?
While your care will continue, there are some important changes to be aware of:
- Services will be grouped into three new categories:
- Clinical Care (e.g. nursing, medication support)
- Independence Support (e.g. therapies, mobility programs)
- Everyday Living (e.g. meals, cleaning, transport)
- There will be a new funding structure with clearer pricing and a defined care management allocation (up to 10% of your care budget)
- Service agreements and monthly statements will be updated to reflect the new system
- You may be offered new options, such as easier access to assistive technology or home modifications
Understanding how funding works
Under the Support at Home program, your funding will still be based on an aged care assessment. Once your needs have been determined, your funding will be allocated into the relevant categories of care.
Catholic Healthcare will continue to manage and deliver your care services, and we will help you understand how your new budget works. You will also receive clear information about your service fees, government contributions and what your funding includes.
Support at Home services available
The types of support you can access under the new program are similar to those offered under HCP and STRC. You may be eligible for:
- Personal care, nursing and allied health
- Support with meals, transport, shopping and social connection
- Falls prevention, exercise and reablement programs
- Home modifications, equipment and technology
- Temporary support after illness or hospitalisation
What you can do to prepare
Although no action is required from you to continue receiving services, there are a few steps you can take to feel prepared:
- Review your current care plan and consider if your needs have changed
- Make sure your personal and emergency contact details are up to date
- Speak with your Catholic Healthcare team if you have questions about the new program
- Ask for a copy of your updated service agreement when it becomes available
- Talk to your family or support person about what the changes may mean for you
Supporting you every step of the way
We understand that any change to your care program can feel uncertain. Catholic Healthcare is committed to making the transition to the Support at Home program as smooth as possible. Our team is here to support you with personalised advice, clear information and care you can trust.
If you have questions or would like help understanding how the changes apply to you, get in touch today.
About Catholic Healthcare
Catholic Healthcare is a leading not-for-profit provider of residential care, home care, and retirement living along Australia's east coast. With over 30 years of experience, we offer care and support to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Our services aim to enrich clients' lives by nurturing their bodies, minds, and spirits with a holistic, person-centred approach. We operate 41 residential aged care homes, 13 retirement living communities, and provide home and community services to more than 6,500 clients.
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