4-6 min read

Who Is Eligible for a Home Care Package?

Written By:

Aged Care Choices Team

Published on

December 4, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENT

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Studies have consistently shown that most older Australians prefer to receive care in their own homes rather than move into an aged care facility. This strong desire to remain in familiar surroundings, while maintaining a sense of independence, is supported by the Home Care Package (HCP) program. Funded by the Australian Government, Home Care Packages provide essential assistance that enables seniors to live safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible.

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A study by Australian Ageing Agenda on 10,000 Australians, found that nearly 80% of Australians aged 50 and over would prefer to remain in their own homes as they age, rather than moving into a residential aged care facility, and 62% stated they want to receive care services in their own home. This preference highlights the importance of home care services in enabling seniors to maintain their independence and stay in familiar surroundings.

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What is a Home Care Package?

A Home Care Package is a government-subsidised program designed to support older Australians who need assistance with daily living tasks. These packages offer a coordinated approach to care, allowing recipients to access a wide range of services that can be tailored to their individual needs. The flexibility of the Home Care Package system means that as an individual’s care needs change, the services provided can be adjusted accordingly.

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Home Care Packages cover a broad spectrum of services, from basic support with household chores to more complex care such as personal care, nursing, and allied health services. This approach helps older Australians stay in their homes for longer, avoiding the need for premature relocation to residential care.

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Who Qualifies for a Home Care Package?

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Qualification	Description
Age Requirement	Most people qualify at 65 years or older. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people may be eligible from age 50 due to earlier health risks.
Assessment of Care Needs	If you need support in three or more areas like personal care, cooking, or cleaning, the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) may approve you for a package.
Health and Mobility	ACAT will also consider health conditions, reduced mobility, recent hospital stays, or new diagnoses when assessing your eligibility.
Residency Status	Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Some visa holders may also qualify if specific residency conditions are met.

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The Levels of Home Care Packages

There are four levels of Home Care Packages, each offering different amounts of funding based on the recipient’s needs:

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Levels	Description
Level 1: Basic Care Needs	Funding: $10,588.65 per year Designed for those needing minimal assistance, covering approximately 2 hours of support per week.
Level 2: Low-Level Care Needs	Funding: $18,622.30 per year Suitable for those requiring moderate support, offering around 3 to 4 hours of care per week.
Level 3: Intermediate Care Needs	Funding: $40,529.60 per year Provides more substantial support for individuals with complex care needs, covering 7 to 8 hours of care per week.
Level 4: High-Level Care Needs	Funding: $61,440.45 per year The highest level of support, catering to those with significant care requirements, providing 11 to 12 hours of care per week.

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What if You Only Need Help in One or Two Areas?

If you only need assistance in one or two areas of daily living, or if you need temporary support while waiting for a Home Care Package, you may be eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). This program offers entry-level services, including help with housekeeping, meal preparation, and transportation, enabling you to remain independent at home.

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Costs and Funding for Home Care Packages

Home Care Packages are largely funded by the Australian Government, making them accessible to many seniors. Fully funded aged care pensioners receive these packages at no cost. However, if you are partially or fully self-funded, you may be required to pay an income-tested care fee. The amount you pay is based on your income, and you can estimate your care fee using the tools available on the My Aged Care website.

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How to Apply for a Home Care Package

The application process for a Home Care Package involves several steps:

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Steps	Description
Register with My Aged Care	Begin by registering online or by calling 1800 200 422. You will need to provide basic information about your age, health, and living situation.
Complete the ACAT Assessment	Following registration, a face-to-face assessment will be arranged, usually in your home. This assessment will evaluate your care needs and determine the level of support required.
Wait for Your Package Notification	After your assessment, you will be placed on a national waiting list. The length of your wait depends on your care needs and the availability of packages.
Select a Home Care Package Provider	Once your package becomes available, you will be notified by My Aged Care. You can then choose a provider to work with you to develop a personalised care plan.
Finalise Your Care Plan	Work with your provider to create a care plan that outlines the services you will receive and how your funds will be allocated. This plan should be flexible and adaptable as your needs evolve.

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Conclusion

Home Care Packages offer a vital service for older Australians, enabling them to continue living independently at home. By understanding the eligibility criteria and the steps involved in securing a Home Care Package, you can ensure that you or your loved one receives the support needed to maintain a high quality of life. Whether you require basic assistance or more intensive care, Home Care Packages provide a valuable solution, allowing seniors to age with dignity and comfort in their own homes.

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For more information on eligibility or to apply for a Home Care Package, visit the My Aged Care website or contact their support team today. Taking the first step now can make all the difference in ensuring you receive the care and support you need.

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How Aged Care Choices Can Assist You

At Aged Care Choices, we understand that navigating the aged care system can be overwhelming, especially when trying to secure the right support for yourself or a loved one. That’s why we’re here to simplify the process and provide guidance every step of the way. We hand-select suitable providers based on your specific needs and preferences—saving you time, money, and stress.

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To help you navigate your care options more easily, we offer our free Care Journey Tool, designed to guide you through every step of securing the right home care services.