Why these Aged Care reforms are happening

The Support at Home reforms are part of the Australian Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The Commission called for a simpler, fairer and more consistent system that lets older people stay independent and connected to their communities.

Previously, there were two main programs: the Home Care Package (HCP) and the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). While both helped people live safely at home, the systems operated separately and were often confusing to navigate.

The Support at Home changes aim to bring these programs together, to streamline assessments and make budgets easier to understand. Holdsworth has created this Support at Home transition guide to help you prepare and stay informed.

What is the Support at Home Program?

The Support at Home Program has replaced HCP and will phase in the CHSP no later than 1 July 2027, creating a single, flexible system for older people who want to live at home safely and stay connected to their community.

Under the new model, assessments, budgets and services will be delivered consistently across the country. Read more on Holdsworth’s Support at Home Program page.

What’s changing: From HCP & CHSP to Support at Home

If you previously received services through a Home Care Package (HCP), you were moved to the new Support at Home program on 1 November 2025. If you currently receive support through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), you’ll transition to Support at Home no earlier than 1 July 2027.

The biggest changes include:

  • a new classification system instead of package levels
  • quarterly budgets that can roll over
  • a unified approach for all types of in-home support
  • nationally consistent pricing and clearer contribution rules

A new classification and funding system

Under the Support at Home reforms, the four HCP levels were replaced by eight Support at Home tiers that better reflect individual care needs, fully phasing out the HCP and gradually replacing the CHSP. Starting 1 Nov 2025, funding has been based on an independent assessment through the Single Assessment System (previously ACAT/RAS).

Previous System (HCP)

New System (Support at Home)

Level 1–4 packages

Levels 1–8 support tiers

Set monthly budget

Quarterly budgets with potential carry-over

Separate funding for each HCP level

Unified budget across all support types, with services organised under three categories:

• Clinical support – for health, nursing and allied health needs

• Independence support – to help maintain mobility, confidence and self-care

• Everyday living support – for household tasks, community connection and daily routines

Quarterly budgets with carry-over

Instead of a fixed monthly allocation, recipients will receive a quarterly budget. If you don’t use all your funds, you can carry over up to 10% or $1,000, whichever is higher, into the next quarter. This offers more flexibility to plan for one-off or seasonal expenses.

New assessment & service matching model

Your care needs will be assessed by the government’s independent assessors under the new Single Assessment System. Holdsworth does not determine your classification or budget.

Here’s how it works:

  • Assessment: Your needs are reviewed by government assessors.
  • Budget: Based on that assessment, you’re assigned an individual budget tied to your classification.
  • Flexibility: Within that budget, you can choose from services across categories — clinical care, independence supports and everyday living.

For Holdsworth clients, our Care Partners are here to help you make sense of your budget, explore what’s possible and design a support plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.

If you were moved from a Home Care Package to the new Support at Home program, your Care Partner can help review your existing plan, explain how your new classification works and make sure your supports continue without interruption. 

From there, we’ll coordinate your chosen services so everything comes together smoothly.

Contributions and price caps

Everyone contributes differently depending on their income. From 1 July 2026, the government will introduce national price caps to make costs transparent and consistent across providers. This will replace provider-set rates, helping you make fair comparisons.

Assistive Technology & Home Modifications (AT-HM)

The new program also includes stronger funding options for aids and equipment like grab rails, mobility supports and other assistive technology. These help people stay independent at home. Your Care Partner can guide you through eligibility and referrals for these supports.

Transition timelines & pathways

Program

Transition date

Key details

Home Care Package (HCP)

1 November 2025

All HCP recipients moved to equivalent Support at Home classifications.  Individuals who were on the National Priority System (NPS) waiting list for a Home Care Package are now assessed and assigned a Support at Home classification when a place becomes available.

Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)

No earlier than 1 July 2027

CHSP providers and clients will gradually transition over two years.

How these reforms affect you: carers, families & providers

For older adults who previously received a Home Care Package

You were automatically transitioned to the new system. Your services will continue while your classification and quarterly budget are confirmed.

For people receiving CHSP services

Your existing support will stay in place until at least mid-2027. You’ll receive clear communication from both the government and your provider before any change happens.

For people not currently in the system (New Applicants)

If you’re newly applying, you’ll still start through My Aged Care. To qualify, you need to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident aged 65 or over (or 50 for First Nations Australians).

For carers and family members

The reforms will help you work more closely with providers. If you’re registered as a supporter, you’ll have access to shared plans and statements, making it easier to understand where funding goes and how your loved one’s needs are being met.

For Aged Care providers and support workers

Providers will report through new digital systems, use quarterly budgets and follow national pricing. Roles like Holdsworth’s Care Partners will continue to focus on collaboration and person-centred planning.

What to expect: practical checklist

To get ready for the Support at Home changes, here’s what you can do:

  • Review your current care plan and services.
  • Ask your provider or Care Partner how the changes could affect your budget.
  • Update your My Aged Care record with any new health information.
  • Talk to your family or carer about future goals.
  • Seek advice early if you want to explore equipment, home modifications or transport.

This Support at Home fact sheet is a great place to start if you want to understand what has changed and what steps to take now that the new system is in place. If you’d like a hand understanding your options, you can book a free aged care at home consultation or reach out to Holdsworth’s friendly team.

Common pitfalls & how to avoid them

Assuming providers decide your budget

Your classification and budget come from the government’s independent assessment, not from your provider.

Not reviewing your plan regularly

It’s easy to set and forget, but your needs may change. Holdsworth encourages ongoing reviews to make sure your support still fits your goals.

Waiting too long to apply

Assessment wait times can vary. If you think you’ll need help sooner, contact My Aged Care early so your plan is ready when you are.

FAQ – Support at Home reforms answered

What are the Support at Home reforms?

They’re the government’s plan to replace existing programs with one streamlined model offering greater flexibility and fairness.

Why is the government replacing HCP and CHSP?

To simplify access, improve consistency and help people stay independent at home for longer.

When will the reforms begin and who do they affect first?

Home Care Package (HCP) recipients transitioned on 1 November 2025. Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) participants will follow no earlier than July 2027.

How will service budgets and classifications work under Support at Home?

You’ll have a classification based on your assessment and a quarterly budget with the ability to carry over funds.

Will I pay more under Support at Home? How are contributions calculated?

Not necessarily. Price caps and income tests are designed to keep contributions fair.

What happens to unspent funds or home modifications under the new system?

Unspent funds can carry forward within set limits, giving you more flexibility across each quarter. Home modifications and assistive technology are funded separately under the government’s AT-HM scheme, which has its own dedicated budget. 

Approved home modifications and equipment purchases that began under a previous package continue to be supported under your new Support at Home plan.

More Resources & Fact Sheets

You can find official information on these Support at Home fact sheets and helpful references below:

Need help understanding the Support at Home reforms?
Holdsworth’s team is here to guide you. Book a free aged care at home consultation or reach out today to talk through your goals, budget and next steps.