What you need to know about the coming changes to the aged care sector and Home Care Packages
The Australian government is making significant strides to enhance aged care, and recent updates to Home Care Packages (HCPs) bring exciting changes for older Australians. With faster access, increased support levels, and a focus on quality, these reforms ensure that older Australians can maintain independence and stay engaged in their communities for longer. We’re here to provide multicultural communities with the information and support needed to get the most from your Home Care Package.
More Home Care Packages and shorter wait times
With a $531.4 million investment in aged care, the government is releasing an additional 24,100 Home Care Packages in 2024–25. This substantial funding increase will reduce wait times, with the average wait anticipated to drop to just six months. For thousands of Australians, this means quicker access to essential in-home services such as personal care, meal support, and social engagement activities, allowing older Australians to live independently and remain connected to their communities.
For multicultural communities, this increased availability will mean quicker access to culturally sensitive care and support tailored to individual preferences allowing for a smoother transition to receiving in-home care services. The additional funding also offers a buffer against the rising demand for aged care, helping more Australians receive timely and adequate support.
Aged Care Bill 2024 and the new Support at Home program
The Aged Care Bill 2024, introduced to Parliament, sets the foundation for the Aged Care Act, which is expected to come into effect on 1 July 2025. One of the key components of this new legislation is the Support at Home program, which aims to provide more tailored and flexible support for Australians who wish to age at home.
Introducing New Support at Home
The Support at Home program will replace the existing Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care Program. Its goal is to help older Australians maintain independence with a more structured and adaptable approach to in-home care. Some highlights include:
- Eight levels of funding: Participants can access up to eight levels of funding, with amounts up to $78,000 annually, allowing for more tailored support.
- Extended restorative care: Access to restorative care has been increased from 8 weeks to 12 weeks, offering greater support for clients aiming to regain independence after illness or injury.
- Funding for home modifications: Home modifications such as handrails or non-slip mats are now available, helping clients create a safer living environment.
- Assistive technology: The program includes a fast-track option for assistive technologies, with an equipment loan scheme to support daily living.
Under this program, the government will fully cover clinical services such as nursing, while clients may need to contribute toward certain non-clinical support services like gardening, meal prep, and personal care.
If you receive services through Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), there will be no immediate impact. CHSP won’t transition to Support at Home until after 1 July 2027.
Improving aged care regulation
The government is committing $111 million over the next four years to improve aged care regulation, aiming for a safe, high-quality system that meets the needs of Australia’s ageing population. As part of this initiative, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will receive increased resources to enhance oversight and ensure that service providers meet rigorous quality standards.
For clients and their families, these regulatory improvements promise better protection and peace of mind. Providers must adhere to new standards that prioritise safety, quality, and person-centred care, helping clients feel confident about the level of support they receive. This increased focus on regulation benefits both clients and their carers, ensuring that they can rely on consistent, respectful care that aligns with their values and needs.
Aged care workforce and technology upgrades
The aged care workforce is essential to providing high-quality services, especially in rural and regional areas where shortages are most acute. To address this, the government has allocated $88.4 million over four years to attract, train, and retain aged care workers, with a focus on improving conditions in remote areas. This funding supports pathways for nurses in aged care, offering opportunities for advancement and helping to ensure that clients have access to skilled, compassionate carers.
In addition, $1.4 billion has been dedicated to enhancing technology and digital infrastructure across the sector. This funding will upgrade current systems, improve data-sharing capabilities, and ensure compliance with the new Aged Care Act. For clients, this means more efficient access to services and improved communication between aged care and health systems, resulting in better-coordinated care.
What these changes mean for providers and clients
For providers
These changes create a more client-centred and flexible aged care environment. Service providers will need to align with government standards, adapt to the new Aged Care Act’s requirements, and ensure that their staff is well-trained in person-centred care practices. This may involve investing in additional training for staff and updating management processes to improve administrative efficiency.
For clients
For clients, these updates bring substantial benefits. Shorter wait times mean quicker access to services, allowing older Australians to begin receiving support sooner. The simplified application process and increased funding levels provide clients with greater control over their care, ensuring they receive the services that best fit their needs and lifestyle. These changes also allow clients to work with their providers to create support plans that align closely with their preferences, promoting a sense of autonomy and well-being.
How to prepare for the transition
To ensure a smooth transition to these new services, clients and their families can take steps to prepare and stay informed:
Stay informed
It’s essential to keep up to date with the latest changes. Follow updates from the Department of Health or consult with your provider to understand how these reforms may impact your care plan. The ADEC team is available to assist, answering any questions you may have and providing insights on new service options.
Evaluate your needs
Take some time to think about the specific services that are most valuable for your independence and well-being. When the new packages become available, this reflection will help you make informed decisions, ensuring your support plan aligns with your lifestyle and health needs.
Ask questions
Don’t hesitate to ask ADEC’s Aged Care team how these changes may affect your current Home Care Package. Our expert Aged Care team is across the latest news and can talk through what the changes mean for you and guide you on making the most of the new options available under the Support at Home program.
The upcoming changes to Home Care Packages and the broader aged care sector signal a new era in Australia’s approach to supporting older Australians, especially in multicultural communities. With shorter wait times, enhanced support, and a focus on quality care, these reforms provide the resources needed to help Australians age independently, with dignity and respect. Contact our multilingual team now to learn more about these new developments and how we can help you make the most of your Home Care Package.
Call us on (03)9480 7000 or 1800 626 078 (toll free) or email info@adec.org.au for more information.