From 1 October 2026, changes to the Australian Government’s Support at Home program will enable Catholic Healthcare Support at Home clients to receive approved personal care services on public holidays.
Currently, clients can choose to keep, cancel or reschedule their personal care service if it falls on a public holiday.
From 1 October 2026, clients who receive approved personal care services will continue to receive their service on a public holiday unless they specifically request to cancel it.
Here’s an example: eligible Support at Home clients who usually receive personal care on a Monday will continue to receive this service on Labour Day, Monday 5 October 2026, provided they have sufficient funding available.
Under this change, personal care services will move from the Independence contribution category to the Clinical Supports category. This means approved personal care will be fully government-funded, with eligible Support at Home clients paying $0 out-of-pocket when the service is included in their care plan and there is available funding in their quarterly budget.
This is a positive change that recognises personal care as an essential service. It reflects feedback received by the Australian Government and helps ensure clients continue receiving important care and support when they need it, including on public holidays.
Other service types may also be delivered on public holidays where funding is available.
We welcome this Support at Home program change, as it will help Catholic Healthcare provide greater continuity of care and peace of mind for clients who rely on personal care services throughout the year.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our team at 1800 225 474.