Big changes are coming to aged care in Australia. From 1 July 2025, the current Home Care Package program will be replaced by a new, simpler system called Support at Home. This change is designed to make it easier for older Australians to access the care they need while continuing to live safely and independently at home.
If you or a loved one are currently receiving home care services or planning to apply, it’s important to understand what these changes mean — particularly when it comes to Support at Home eligibility and how you’ll be assessed.
What is the Support at Home program?
The Support at Home program is a government initiative to improve how aged care services are delivered in Australia. It will combine existing programs into one streamlined system, providing clear information about services, eligibility and funding.
Under this program, eligible older Australians will receive an individual support plan and a quarterly budget to access care and support services. If you are already receiving a Home Care Package, on the national waiting list, or receiving short-term restorative care, you will automatically transition to Support at Home without needing to reapply — unless your care needs change.
Who is eligible for Support at Home?
Support at Home eligibility is determined through a formal assessment process. From 1 July 2025, you may be eligible if you meet one of the following criteria:
- You are over the age of 65
- You are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person over the age of 50
- You are over the age of 50 and at risk of homelessness
Once your eligibility is confirmed, an assessment will be conducted to understand your specific care needs and help determine the services and funding you require.
The single assessment system – how it works
A key part of the new program is the introduction of the Single Assessment System. This is one of the biggest improvements under Support at Home and will change how people are assessed for home care services.
From 1 July 2025, all assessments will be carried out by the Single Assessment Service using the Integrated Assessment Tool. This means you will no longer need to go through multiple assessment teams or agencies. The process will be clearer and faster, making it easier for you and your family to understand your Support at Home eligibility.
During your assessment, the SAS team will work closely with you to develop an individual support plan. This plan will outline your care needs, personal goals and available services. It will also determine your funding classification — ensuring the support you receive matches your assessed needs.
The introduction of the Single Assessment System is designed to reduce wait times, eliminate duplication, and make aged care services more accessible for older Australians.
How Trilogy Care is leading the way to Support at Home
At Trilogy Care, we’re committed to making this transition easy and stress-free for you and your family. We’ve been working alongside the aged care sector to prepare for these changes and ensure that our care recipients are supported every step of the way.
Our team will help you navigate the new system, understand your Support at Home eligibility, and make informed choices about your care. We believe in empowering older Australians and their families with the information they need to continue living safely and happily at home.
If you’d like to learn more about your eligibility or how we can support you under the new program, reach out to our friendly team via our contact form or call us on 1300 459 190.
