Support at Home Explained: What Changed in November 2025

The biggest change in Australian aged care since 1997

On 1 November 2025, the Australian Government replaced the Home Care Packages (HCP) program with the new Support at Home program. This is the most significant reform to aged care since the original Aged Care Act was introduced in 1997.

If you're caring for an older family member — or planning ahead — here's what you need to know.

What changed?

8 funding classifications (up from 4)

The old system had just 4 package levels. The new system has 8 ongoing classifications plus 4 transitional levels for people already on HCP. This means more granular funding that better matches individual care needs.

Quarterly budgets replace annual packages

Instead of an annual budget, funding is now managed quarterly. Each quarter, your family member receives a budget based on their classification level. Unspent funds can roll over — up to $1,000 or 10% of the quarterly budget, whichever is greater.

Care management fees are capped at 10%

Under the old system, providers could charge up to 15% or more in care management fees. The new system caps this at 10% of the quarterly budget, leaving more money for actual care.

Three new short-term pathways

Support at Home introduces three dedicated short-term care pathways:

1. Restorative Care — up to $12,000 over 16 weeks for allied health services
2. End-of-Life — up to $25,000 over 16 weeks for people wishing to remain at home
3. AT-HM (Assistive Technology & Home Modifications) — separate funding for equipment and home modifications

Maximum funding increased to $78,106/year

The highest classification (Level 8) provides up to $78,106 per year — significantly more than the old Level 4 maximum of approximately $55,000.

What should you do now?

1. Check your eligibility — Use our Funding Finder to see what your family member may qualify for
2. Understand the transition — If you're currently on an HCP, you've been automatically transitioned with "no worse off" protections
3. Review your provider — The new quarterly budget model means you may be able to get more value from a different provider
4. Ask about pathways — If your family member needs physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or home modifications, ask about the dedicated pathways

Need help navigating the changes?

The new system is complex, but you don't have to figure it out alone. Start with our free Funding Finder or browse providers in your area who specialise in Support at Home.