1. Introduction: Understanding Your Choices
As we age, maintaining independence at home often requires some support. In Australia, two major government-funded programs provide this help: the Home Care Package (HCP) and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). Both aim to help older Australians live independently, but they cater to different levels of care needs.
In this guide, we’ll explore what each program offers, how they differ, and which one may be right for you or your loved ones.
2. Overview of HCP and CHSP
2.1 Home Care Packages (HCP)
HCPs provide coordinated and flexible services for older people with more complex or ongoing care needs. Funding is allocated in four levels, depending on the intensity of care required:
- Level 1 – Basic care needs
- Level 2 – Low-level care
- Level 3 – Intermediate care
- Level 4 – High-level care
2.1.1 Services Covered by HCP
The major services provided by Home Care Packages are as follow:
- Personal Care: Help with daily tasks like bathing and dressing
- Domestic Assistance: Cleaning, laundry, shopping
- Transport Services: Flexible support for appointments and outings
- Companion Care: Social interaction and companionship
- Nursing Care: Clinical support, medication, wound care
- Allied Health Services: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry
- Home & Garden Maintenance: Safety checks, basic gardening, small repairs
- Home Modifications: Grab rails, ramps, bathroom modifications
- Respite Care: In-home relief for carers, including emergency or overnight care
2.2 Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
The CHSP is an entry-level program for seniors who only need occasional or low-level support. It's ideal for individuals who are generally independent but may need help with a specific task or two. Typically, CHSP is directed at senior citizens that only need a small bit of assistance. It can include general help around the house, transporting them from A to B, making meals, modifying the home, and so on. All of these services are fairly basic and exist for seniors that are fairly independent but lack in one or two areas. Unlike HCP, the CHSP does not contain different levels of care. It only covers the basic care level.
2.2.1 Services Covered by CHSP:
The major services covered by CHSP are as follows:
- Domestic Assistance: Help with cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation.
- Personal Care: Assistance with showering, dressing, and grooming.
- Social Support: Activities to help you stay connected with your community.
- Home Maintenance: Minor repairs and gardening.
- Allied Health Support: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, etc.
- Nursing Care: Basic nursing services.
- Transport: Transport to appointments, shopping centers, or community activities.
- Respite care: Short-term care to give your regular carer a break.
3. Comparing CHSP vs HCP Services
While the types of services can look similar, they’re delivered quite differently in terms of scope, flexibility, frequency, and funding. The differences in service provided by these packages are explained below:
4. Key Differences Between HCP and CHSP
Home Care Packages (HCP) and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) offer many of the same types of services, such as help with cleaning, meals, personal care, and allied health.
However, there are key differences between CHSP and HCP in terms of funding, flexibility, and level of care.
5. Eligibility Criteria
5.1 HCP Eligibility
You may be eligible if:
- You are 65+, or
- 50–64 and Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, or homeless/at risk of homelessness.
- You have complex care needs not met by CHSP.
5.2 CHSP Eligibility
You may be eligible if:
- You are 65+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people).
- You need one or two types of assistance to remain at home.
6. Understanding the Costs
6.1 HCP Costs
- Basic daily fee (optional for most)
- Income-tested care fee (depends on income)
- The rest is subsidized by the government based on your package level
6.2 CHSP Costs
- You pay a small contribution per service
- Costs vary by provider but are typically lower than HCP
7. How to Apply
7.1 Home Care Packages (HCP)
Home Care Packages help older Australians stay independent at home by providing tailored support like personal care, nursing, and help with daily tasks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply:
- Check Eligibility
- Register with My Aged Care (online or call 1800 200 422)
- Assessment by ACAT
- Receive approval and care level
- Understand your contribution
- Choose a provider
- Start your care plan
7.2 Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
Here is a step-by-step procedure to apply for CHSP services:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
You must be 65+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) and need help to stay independent at home.
Step 2: Register with My Aged Care
Sign up online or by phone to create your profile and share details about your health and daily living.
Step 3: Get Assessed
A home visit by the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) will determine the support you need.
Step 4: Review Your Assessment Outcome
You’ll find out which services you’re approved for and receive a tailored support plan.
Step 5: Choose a Provider
Select a suitable service provider through My Aged Care, with help from family or an advocate if needed.
8. Choosing the Right Option
Deciding between an HCP and the CHSP depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Consider the following:
- Level of Care Needs: If you require coordinated and higher-level support for multiple needs, an HCP is likely more suitable. If you need help with a few specific tasks to maintain your independence, the CHSP might be sufficient.
- Complexity of Needs: HCPs are designed for more complex care needs that require ongoing management and coordination. CHSP is better for simpler, more defined needs.
- Control and Choice: If having more control over the services you receive and who provides them is important to you, an HCP offers greater flexibility.
- Financial Considerations: CHSP generally involves lower out-of-pocket costs. If budget is a significant factor and your needs are less complex, CHSP may be the preferred option.
- Future Needs: Consider how your needs might change over time. An HCP can be adapted more readily to increasing care requirements.
It's recommended to discuss your situation with your doctor, family, and an assessment organization to determine the most appropriate program for you.
9. Conclusion: Making the Right Care Decision
Choosing between the CHSP and HCP depends on your current care needs, budget, and how much support you need now or in the future.
- CHSP is ideal for those who are mostly independent and need just a bit of help.
- HCP is better for those needing ongoing, comprehensive support with care coordination.
We recommend starting with a conversation involving your doctor, family, or an aged care provider like ACC. At ACC, we help you understand your options, guide you through My Aged Care registration and assessments, and connect you with trusted service providers.
Whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to transition to a higher level of care, ACC is here to help ensuring you stay safe, supported, and independent at home.
