What to do while waiting for your Home Care Package

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Waiting for your Home Care Package (HCP) can feel like a long process, especially if you need extra support right away. The good news is there are practical steps you can take to make the most of this Home Care Package waiting period. By acting now, you can access help sooner, prepare for your services, and ensure you’re ready to start as soon as your funding is assigned.

If you’ve been wondering “what to do while waiting for my Home Care Package” or “how to prepare for my Home Care Package”, this guide will walk you through the best options and resources available.

Access support while you wait

Before your package begins, you might be able to get temporary help through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). This entry-level program offers essential services like domestic assistance, transport, personal care, and meals.

Because availability can vary between regions, it’s worth contacting all local CHSP providers to see if they are accepting new participants. If they’re full, ask to join their waiting list and follow up regularly. Even short-term help can make daily life easier while waiting for your Home Care Package to start.

Make use of community programs

Community support can be just as valuable as funded care. Local councils, neighbourhood houses, and community centres often run low-cost or free activities, including:

  • Social groups and outings
  • Gentle exercise classes
  • Transport to appointments or shopping
  • Volunteer visitor programs

These services are a great way to stay active, connected, and supported during the waiting period.

Decide on your provider early

One of the most important steps in preparing for your Home Care Package is deciding on your Registered Provider before your funding is released. When comparing providers, look for:

Knowing who you want to work with means you can start services without delay when your package becomes available.

Plan your care priorities

Think about the services that matter most to you – whether that’s domestic help, allied health, social outings, home modifications, or personal care. Being clear about your goals will help you and your provider create a care plan that supports your independence and wellbeing from day one.

Update My Aged Care if your needs change

If your health or living situation changes during the Home Care Package waiting period, notify My Aged Care immediately. A Support Plan Review may lead to a higher funding classification and potentially reduce your wait.

Stay informed about your application

After your aged care assessment with the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), you’ll receive a Notice of Decision confirming your approved Home Care Package level and whether you are a high or medium priority. You can check your place in the national priority system by:

  • Calling My Aged Care on 1800 200 422

Keeping track of your application ensures you’re ready to move forward as soon as your funding is allocated.

How Trilogy Care can help

At Trilogy Care, we know the Home Care Package waiting period can feel uncertain. We help older Australians explore every available support option while they wait, from CHSP services to community programs, so they feel prepared and supported.

By accessing interim help, connecting with community activities, choosing your provider early, and planning your care priorities, you can make the most of this time and start your Home Care Package with confidence.

If you’d like personalised advice on support options while waiting for your Home Care Package, contact Trilogy Care today. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

How do I apply for Support at Home funding?

How do I apply for Support at Home funding? aged care program 2025 Support at Home application process

From 1 November 2025, the new Support at Home program will officially replace the current Home Care Packages (HCP) system. This is one of the most significant changes to aged care in Australia in over a decade.

But for many older Australians and their families, applying for Support at Home can feel like a daunting task. We receive many calls from older Australians asking “How do I apply for Support at Home funding?” or “How can my parents get Support at Home funding?”

That’s where Trilogy Care comes in.

We’re here to break it down and help you through it, step by step.

What is Support at Home?

Support at Home is a government-funded aged care program designed to help older people stay independent, safe and connected in their own homes.

Instead of daily subsidies, participants receive a quarterly budget tailored to their care needs, with access to a clear service list and a Care Partner to help plan and coordinate their care.

If you’re already receiving a Home Care Package, you may automatically transition. But if you’re applying for the first time, or supporting someone who is, you’ll need to go through the new application and assessment process.

So, how do I apply for Support at Home?

Here’s how the application process works, and what to expect at each stage:

1. Start with My Aged Care

To access government-funded care, your first step is to register with My Aged Care. This can be done online or over the phone. You’ll be asked a few questions about your health, living situation and current supports.

If you’re helping someone else apply, you can also register as their representative.

2. Get assessed by the Single Assessment System (SAS)

Once registered, you’ll be referred for an aged care assessment through the Single Assessment System (SAS), which replaced ACAT and RAS teams.

An assessor will visit your home to understand your care needs and determine your eligibility. This is a supportive conversation, not a test, and the goal is to match you with the right level of help.

3. Receive your Support at Home classification

Following the assessment, you’ll be assigned a Support at Home classification level. This determines how much funding you’ll receive each quarter.

There are eight ongoing classification levels, plus additional short-term options like the Restorative Care and End-of-Life Pathways.

4. Choose a provider that puts you first

Once your classification is confirmed, it’s time to choose a Registered Provider. This is where Trilogy Care can make a real difference.

As your provider, we support you to:

  • Create your personalised care plan
  • Choose your own workers (if you prefer)
  • Make the most of your quarterly budget
  • Stay compliant with the new system (without the paperwork headaches)

We guide you through every decision and check in regularly to make sure your care still fits your needs.

5. Start your care with confidence

With the right provider in place, your services can begin. You’ll receive regular statements showing how your budget is being used, and you’ll work with your Care Partner or Care Coordinator to review your plan as your needs evolve.

You’ll also have access to additional funding for things like assistive technology, home modifications, and supplements (if eligible).

Trilogy Care makes it easier to apply

You don’t need to go through this process alone. At Trilogy Care, we simplify the Support at Home journey and make sure you’re supported at every step: before, during and after you apply.

Whether you’re navigating the process for yourself or helping a loved one, we’re here to help you feel confident, informed and in control.

Quick summary: How to apply for Support at Home

  • Call or register with My Aged Care: 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au
  • Have an assessment through the Single Assessment System (SAS)
  • Receive your classification level and funding amount
  • Choose Trilogy Care as your registered provider
  • Start your personalised care plan

Ready to apply or need a hand getting started?
Call Trilogy Care today on 1300 459 190. We’re here to make aged care simple.