Understanding what government-aged care funding can and cannot be used for is one of the most common pain points for families. With the transition from Home Care Packages, many people are unsure if the rules they are familiar with still apply.

The new Support at Home program has changed how funding is structured, but it has not removed boundaries altogether. Some support services are clearly included and excluded. Then there are situations where the answer depends on why the support is needed.

This guide walks through the Support at Home service list in practical terms so you can see how your budget may be used and where exclusions still apply. The aim is not to overwhelm you with policy detail but to give you clarity before making significant decisions.

What is the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home Program is the Australian Government’s new framework for in-home aged care, introduced from 1 November 2025. It replaces both Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC), bringing previously separate systems under one structure.

Rather than assigning people to a fixed package level, funding is now linked to an individual assessment of needs. That budget can then be used across an approved Support at Home service list, provided the services relate directly to health, safety, independence or daily living at home.

For many people, this shift offers more flexibility. It also means understanding that inclusions and exclusions matter more than ever.

The Support at Home service list: What is included?

Support at Home funding can be used across a range of categories defined by the government. These categories are broad by design and intended to reflect how support is used in real life rather than forcing people into narrow service definitions. Understanding the Support at Home services list helps people plan their care with confidence and avoid unexpected costs later on.

Clinical care

Clinical care includes services delivered by qualified health professionals to support medical and therapeutic needs, with no contributions required for these support services. 

This may involve nursing care, allied health services such as physiotherapy or podiatry and clinical tasks like wound management. For example, someone living with a chronic condition may receive regular nursing visits while another may work with an allied health professional to improve mobility or manage pain.

Independence

Independence-focused supports help people navigate daily routines and live with confidence and peace of mind in their own home.

This can include assistance with personal care, such as showering or dressing, access to mobility aids and home modifications like ramps or grab rails. Transport to medical appointments is also covered within this category when it supports health safety or continued independence.

Everyday living

Everyday living focuses on maintaining a safe, comfortable home and staying connected to others.

This includes domestic assistance, such as cleaning or gardening, help with meal preparation and social support services. Social connection is a key contributor to wellbeing, and funded support may include participation in structured social programs or assistance to attend community activities.

Holdsworth prioritises social connection and community transport, both of which fall naturally within these Support at Home categories. Learn more about the Support at Home Program and how these supports work in practice.

Understanding the exclusions: What you cannot claim

Questions around Support at Home inclusions and exclusions often come up during planning conversations. While the program itself has changed, most of the long-standing limits on what government funding can be used for remain in place.

Support at Home funding must always link back to assessed care needs. If something does not support your health, safety or ability to live independently, it is unlikely to be approved even if it feels helpful or convenient.

This approach is similar to the rules people may remember from HCP inclusions and exclusions under the previous system.

General income expenses

Support at Home funding cannot be used to cover everyday household costs. Rent or mortgage payments, utility bills such as electricity or gas and general grocery shopping all fall outside the scope of care funding.

These are generally considered personal living expenses, although they can become more challenging to manage with age.

Entertainment

Funding cannot be used for leisure activities that are not directly tied to care needs. This includes gambling, holiday club memberships and entertainment tickets.

Approved social support must be delivered through recognised services rather than personal entertainment choices.

Asset replacement

Large personal purchases are not covered under Support at Home. Buying a new car or paying for general home renovations is excluded.

Even where an item improves comfort, it must meet specific care-related criteria to be considered.

When is an exclusion actually an inclusion?

In some situations, an item that’s not usually covered may still be approved when it directly supports a person’s health, safety or independence. Some instances are when they are clinically necessary and supported by professional advice.

For example:

  • A recliner chair may normally be considered furniture, but could be approved if required to manage specific mobility or health needs.
  • Certain equipment may be included when recommended by an allied health professional.
  • Home modifications may be funded when they are essential for safety rather than cosmetic improvement.

The deciding factor is always the same. Does the item support an assessed care need, and is it documented in the care plan?

Why partner with Holdsworth for your Support at Home?

Understanding what is included and excluded is only one part of navigating the Support at Home system. Having the right support makes a real difference.

Holdsworth works alongside individuals, families and carers to make sense of funding, plan support and adjust services as needs change. Our approach is guided by our mission with a strong focus on dignity, independence and community connection.

If you’re unsure how inclusions or exclusions apply to your Support at Home budget, Holdsworth is here to help you make confident choices that support how you want to live at home.

Contact us today to book a free consultation and talk through your options with our team.