As Australia’s aged care system undergoes major reform, it’s more important than ever to understand the different levels of support available for older Australians living at home. Whether you’re currently receiving a Home Care Package (HCP) or preparing for the transition to the Support at Home program, knowing what each level of care includes and how these systems differ can help you make informed decisions for yourself or a loved one.
This blog explains the levels of support under both the existing HCP program and the upcoming Support at Home model, and how the two systems compare.
It’s also important to know that the Support at Home program will eventually replace the current HCP system starting from 1 July 2025. This transition is designed to simplify how care is assessed, funded, and delivered, making it easier for older Australians to get the right support at the right time.
1. Home Care Packages: The Four Levels of Support
The Home Care Package (HCP) program is a government-subsidized initiative that provides coordinated support for older Australians who want to remain living at home. It offers four levels of care ranging from basic to high-level support, each with a set annual budget to fund HCP services like personal care, nursing, and home maintenance. HCPs are tailored to individual needs, allowing flexibility in how funds are used within approved care categories.
1.1 Levels of HCP:
There are four levels of Home Care Packages. They are explained below:
Level 1: Basic Needs
- Occasional help with household tasks (e.g. vacuuming, grocery shopping).
- Ideal for those needing minimal support to remain independent.
Level 2: Low-Level Needs
- Regular support with personal care (e.g. showering, medication reminders).
- Some social support and basic mobility assistance.
Level 3: Intermediate Needs
- Help with complex personal care routines and mobility.
- Assistance with managing chronic conditions and cognitive support.
Level 4: High-Level Needs
- Daily assistance with personal care, clinical services, and supervision.
- Suitable for individuals with advanced care needs or early dementia.
Maximum Funding: Up to $61,440 per year (Level 4)
Here’s a clear and simple table outlining the four levels of Home Care Packages (HCP):
2. Support at Home: The Eight Levels of Support
The Support at Home program is a new aged care initiative set to replace the Home Care Package system from July 2025, offering a more flexible, transparent, and needs-based approach to in-home care. It features eight levels of support, allowing services to be more finely matched to an individual's care requirements, from minimal help to intensive, daily medical and personal care. With clear service categories and government-set price caps, Support at Home aims to simplify care delivery while ensuring older Australians receive the right support at the right time.
2.1 Levels of Support at Home:
There are eight levels of Support at Home program. Each level of Support at Home is designed to match a person’s functional ability, clinical needs, and support preferences, ranging from minimal domestic help to full-time complex care.
Level 1: Minimal Support for Independent Living
- For older adults who are mostly independent but need occasional help
- Support may include light domestic tasks (e.g., mopping, changing bed sheets)
- Also includes brief welfare checks and community transport
- Focus is on prevention and reassurance
Level 2: Light Personal Assistance and Social Connection
- Adds personal care like showering or dressing assistance a few times per week
- May include grocery shopping or help attending social activities
- Mild medication management or basic health checks (e.g., blood pressure)
- Supports physical well-being and reduces isolation
Level 3: Moderate Support with Daily Routines
- Regular assistance across multiple daily tasks
- Help with hygiene, meal preparation, transport, and fall prevention
- Cognitive support or mobility assistance becomes more prominent
- Ideal for individuals at risk of losing independence without support
Level 4: High-Frequency Personal and Household Support
- Daily support with personal care routines (e.g., dressing, toileting)
- Occupational therapist-led home safety modifications (e.g., handrails)
- Incontinence support and more intensive mobility assistance
- Housekeeping services are ongoing to ensure a safe environment
Level 5: Daily Support and Clinical Coordination
- Suitable for people with high daily support needs and health risks
- Includes advanced personal care, hoisting, feeding assistance, and transport to medical appointments
- Clinical care is coordinated with allied health professionals (e.g., physiotherapists, dietitians)
- Home safety and monitoring become key components
Level 6: Comprehensive Medical and Personal Care at Home
- Multidisciplinary care with frequent nursing services (e.g., wound care, injections)
- Ongoing physiotherapy or speech therapy may be involved
- Daily personal care, continence management, and medical monitoring
- Homes may be modified for clinical functionality
Level 7: Intensive Daily Care Across Multiple Needs
- For individuals with complex, multi-system conditions (e.g., dementia, COPD)
- Full support with all Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, feeding, toileting, etc.
- Requires multiple daily visits from carers, nurses, and allied health staff
- Social and emotional support becomes an integral part of care
Level 8: Highest Level of In-Home Care, Including Palliative Support
- Designed for individuals with chronic or terminal conditions needing end-of-life care
- Includes 24/7 availability, pain management, and use of specialist equipment
- Emotional, spiritual, and family support is provided alongside physical care
- This is the in-home equivalent of high-dependency palliative care
Funding: Each level comes with a capped budget up to $78,000 per year at Level 8.
Here’s a clear and simple table outlining the eight levels of Support at Home:
3. Comparing HCP and Support at Home: What’s Changing?
Here's aside-by-side breakdown of the key differences between HCP and Support at Home:
4. Transitioning from HCP to Support at Home
If you're currently receiving a Home Care Package (HCP), you don't need to reapply or worry about immediate changes. The Support at Home rollout will be gradual, and existing HCP recipients will be transitioned automatically to an equivalent level under the new system.
You must know that:
- People not paying income-tested fees under HCP will continue with no such fees under Support at Home.
- You will retain your right to choose providers, receive support at home, and contribute based on means.
5. Final Thoughts
Navigating aged care can be overwhelming, but understanding the levels of support available, whether under the current Home Care Package system or the upcoming Support at Home program can make a significant difference in the quality of life for older Australians and their families.
By breaking down the levels of care, services, and funding, this blog aims to empower you with the knowledge to make confident, informed decisions.
As we approach the transition to Support at Home in July 2025, it's clear that the new model promises greater flexibility, fairness, and transparency in how care is delivered. Whether you're planning ahead or currently receiving aged care support, staying informed will ensure you or your loved ones continue to receive the right care at the right time at home, where it matters most.
We encourage you to check your eligibility early and book an aged care assessment through the official My Aged Care website. Starting the process now can help avoid delays and ensure you receive the support you need when the new system begins.
For trusted guidance, ACC is here to help.
At Aged Care Choice (ACC), we provide personalized support to help you:
- Navigate the aged care system
- Compare providers
- Understand costs
- Get the most from your funding package whether under HCP or the upcoming Support at Home model
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between Home Care Packages and Support at Home?
Home Care Packages (HCP) offer four levels of coordinated care for older Australians living at home. Support at Home, launching in July 2025, will replace HCP with a more flexible system that includes eight levels of care and simpler pricing. It’s designed to better match services to individual needs.
2. Will I lose my current services when Support at Home replaces HCP?
No. If you're already receiving a Home Care Package, you'll be automatically transitioned to an equivalent level in the Support at Home program. Your services will continue without interruption, and you’ll receive communication about any changes.
3. How do I know what level of care I need?
Your care level is determined through an aged care assessment conducted by a trained assessor. This assessment evaluates your physical, medical, and social needs to match you with the right level of support. You can start this process through My Aged Care.
4. Can I choose my own care provider under the Support at Home program?
Yes. Just like with HCP, you will retain the right to choose your preferred provider under Support at Home. The government will also ensure transparent pricing so you can compare services more easily.
5. How can Aged Care Choice (ACC) help me with this transition?
Aged Care Choices (ACC) helps individuals and families navigate the aged care system, from:
- Understanding your eligibility
- Applying for assessments
- Selecting providers
- Maximizing your funding
ACC ensures you receive the right care at the right time, with expert support every step of the way.
