1. If you or a loved one is currently receiving aged care under the Home Care Packages (HCP) program, you might be wondering what the transition to Support at Home means for you. The good news? From 1 July 2025, you’ll transition automatically – no reassessment required. Here’s everything you need to know about the changes, what to expect, and how to navigate this transition smoothly.

What does the transition mean for you?

If you’re already receiving a Home Care Package, your funding will automatically transfer to an equivalent Support at Home funding level. This ensures continuity of care without needing to undergo another assessment. Your annual package budget will be divided into four parts – one for each quarter of the year. 

You can carry over unspent funds, up to $1,000 or 10% of your quarterly budget (whichever is greater). 

If you had unspent funds in your Home Care Package, you’ll keep them. These can be used for:

• Additional services if your quarterly budget runs out
• Assistive technology and home modifications (AT-HM), if approved.

Important: If you’re on the National Priority System and have been approved for a Home Care Package, you’ll also transition with equivalent funding once Support at Home becomes available.

What are the key changes?

Though your services will continue, there are several important changes you should be aware of:

1. Quarterly budgeting

Your existing annual budget will be split into quarterly allocations, offering better transparency and financial control. The quarterly funding cycle will follow the fiscal quarters:

• • July to September
  • October to December
  • January to March
  • April to June

2. Clearer service inclusions

Under Support at Home, all services will be specified on a service list with clear inclusions and exclusions. This list largely mirrors the existing services you access through the Home Care Packages Program, ensuring continuity of care.

3. Care management allocation

Care management funding will be set at 10% of your ongoing quarterly budgets. This funding will be used by your provider to deliver care management support, ensuring you receive the assistance you need to manage your care effectively.

4. Separate funding for equipment and modifications

If you need assistive technology or home modifications, you’ll receive a separate budget through the new AT-HM Scheme – no need to dip into your care funds.

No need for reassessment

One of the most significant aspects of this transition is that you will not need to be reassessed for Support at Home, unless your needs have changed. This means the process will be seamless and you will continue to receive your current level of support without interruption.

What you need to do

If you’re already receiving services through the HCP Program– or are on the waiting list- you don’t need to take any action. The transition will be automatic and your provider (like Holdsworth) will support you every step of the way.

Have questions or need help planning ahead?

Click below to speak with our aged care team at Holdsworth.

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