How will Support at Home impact remote and regional clients?

Support at Home regional clients rural aged care regional communities

The upcoming Support at Home program is set to reshape aged care for older Australians—especially those living in regional, rural, and remote communities. With a strong emphasis on equity, independence, and local service access, the new model aims to ensure that where you live doesn’t limit the care you receive.

A $600 million investment in rural aged care

In a major step forward, the Australian Government has committed $600 million to support aged care providers delivering services in rural and remote areas, as well as to people from diverse backgrounds. The funding is designed to:

  • Strengthen the financial viability of providers in hard-to-reach locations
  • Ensure continuity of care for older people already receiving support
  • Introduce two-year thin market grants, available from 1 November 2025, to help providers continue operating in less populated areas

This initiative reflects the government’s recognition that rural aged care services require dedicated investment and flexible solutions.

What’s changing in Support at Home?

Launching on 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program replaces existing in-home care models with a more tailored, nationally consistent system. For those living in regional and rural areas, key improvements include:

  • Earlier access to support like allied health, assistive technology, and home modifications
  • Fairer budgets, with eight care levels matched to individual needs
  • Affordable contributions, set by the government—not providers
  • Simplified access, with a single, streamlined assessment process
  • Dedicated funding for home modifications and equipment through the Assistive Technology & Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme

For regional and rural clients, this means more consistent access to the care they need, when they need it—delivered by providers who are better supported to serve their communities.

A fairer future for regional aged care

Together, these changes mark a clear shift toward a more responsive and equitable aged care system. Older Australians living in regional and rural areas can expect:

With the Support at Home program, the future of regional aged care is more secure, more accessible, and more person-centred than ever before.

Trilogy Care is leading the Support at Home transition

At Trilogy Care, we’re proud to be at the forefront of the transition to Support at Home—working closely with our clients, their families, and local providers to make sure every older Australian receives the care they deserve, no matter where they live. From navigating funding changes to tailoring in-home supports that meet individual needs, we’re here to make the shift smooth, simple, and stress-free.

If you or someone you know is living in a regional or rural area and wants to learn more about the future of aged care, give us a call today on 1300 459 190—we’re here to help you stay independent, supported, and confident at home.

Note, the information contained in this article is subject to change as the government refines the terms of the new program.

What is the role of the care team in your Home Care Package?

care team care partner care coordinator

When you begin your Home Care Package journey with Trilogy Care, you will be assigned a care partner or care coordinator from our care team. This depends on whether you are a Self Managed or Self Managed PLUS care recipient. Their role is to ensure you receive the highest quality care and support as a Home Care Package recipient.

What are care partners and care coordinators?

Your care partner is your dedicated point of contact at Trilogy Care. They are here to support you with any questions, concerns, or issues related to your care. If they are unable to assist directly, they will connect you with the right person or team to help.

When should you contact your care partner?

Your care partner is available whenever you need support. Their priority is to ensure you receive the care you need at the highest standard.

Reach out if you have any questions about:

No matter the concern—big or small—don’t hesitate to get in touch.

When will your care partner contact you?

Your care partner will check in every three to four months. These regular check-ins help us ensure you haven’t experienced any injuries, accidents, or other issues we may not be aware of.

It’s also a great opportunity to bring up any concerns that may not have felt urgent but still deserve attention.

What else does the care team do?

When not speaking directly with care recipients, the care team works behind the scenes to:

  • Manage invoices
  • Track spending to help you stay within your budget
  • Update confidential records to keep everything current

What happens if my care partner and I disagree?

Occasionally, you and your care partner may have differing views on certain care decisions. Trilogy Care must provide services in line with government regulations, which may mean we cannot approve funding for certain items based on these guidelines. This may be escalated to senior team members if required.

While care partners will always strive to assist where possible, they are bound by the rules of the Home Care Package program.

Call the care team whenever you need!

Your care partner is here to support your wellbeing, lifestyle, and health. If you need assistance, reach out anytime—they’re ready to help. If you have general questions about Trilogy Care, or are not yet a care recipient with us, give our friendly team a call on 1300 459 190 or contact us via our website.

How can I save with Trilogy Care?

cost of living save money Trilogy Care

As we move further into 2025, the rising cost of living continues to be a challenge for many Australians. In times like these, finding ways to save can make a significant difference. If you receive aged care support, self-managing your Home Care Package, or accessing our Self Managed PLUS management level,  could be an excellent way to reduce costs while maintaining quality care.

If you’re interested in learning how to save with Trilogy Care, consider attending one of our free Home Care Package information sessions being held across the country.

What is Trilogy Care?

Trilogy Care is Australia’s fastest growing Home Care Package provider, connecting older Australians with the support they need to live independently at home. A Home Care Package is a government-funded program designed to help older individuals access a range of services tailored to their unique care needs.

Our experienced team offers personalised care planning, budget management, and optional support coordination. With Trilogy Care, you can maximise your Home Care Package through flexible self-management options.

Self-managing provides:

  • Increased care hours through lower management fees and competitive service rates
  • Flexibility to design your care plan and budget with a dedicated care partner
  • Greater control over how your funds are spent
  • Freedom to choose services and support workers at rates that suit you

This approach empowers you with choice, control, and independence, backed by a compassionate team of industry experts.

How does self-management save money?

Self-management offers greater choice, value, and flexibility compared to traditional aged care services. With Trilogy Care, you can self-manage your Home Care Package for just significantly less, allowing you to allocate more of your budget directly to your care – exactly what is needed with the cost of living crisis.

You’ll also have the freedom to:

  • Negotiate rates with your support workers
  • Switch service providers at any time
  • Customise your care to suit your budget and preferences

This flexibility ensures you receive the best value and control over your Home Care Package.

What other advantages does self-management offer in the cost of living crisis?

Beyond the financial benefits, self-management with Trilogy Care gives you greater control over your care. You can:

  • Choose your own care workers
  • Select the support services that best meet your needs
  • Tailor your care plan to reflect your individual preferences and lifestyle

We cover all of this and more in our Home Care Package information sessions.

What is involved in a Home Care Package information session?

If you’d like to learn how a self-managed Home Care Package can help you save money and reduce cost of living pressures, join one of Trilogy Care’s free information sessions.

These sessions help local communities:

  • Understand the different Home Care Package options available
  • Discover how self-management can support your independence, health, and financial well-being
  • Learn practical tips on making the most of your Home Care Package

How can I save money today?

To find out when our next events are happening, visit the events page on our website. You can also call us on 1300 459 190 to speak with one of our friendly team members about how to start saving.

Come along and discover how to Take Trilogy Care of Yourself!

Plena Healthcare – improving allied health in aged care

Plena Health allied health Plena Healthcare allied healthcare

Plena Healthcare is Australia’s largest allied health service provider, with over 1,300 therapists working across the country. They make it easier for aged care recipients to access tailored allied health services that align with their individual needs. As a proud partner of Trilogy Care, Plena Healthcare is delighted to offer care recipients an exclusive 10% discount on their services.

Plena Healthcare’s expert team is dedicated to listening, connecting, and nurturing care recipients. They focus on addressing each individual’s needs through a holistic approach to healthcare.

Plena Healthcare was established through the merger of several expert organisation, with the goal of improving allied healthcare for Australians. With more than 30 years of experience in their respective fields, they deliver quality care designed to enhance your quality of life and maintain independence.

What services do they offer?

Plena Healthcare specialises in a wide range of allied health services, including:

Their highly qualified team can provide these services at a time and place that suits your lifestyle, including in-home care. Every team member holds the necessary certifications, insurance, and a current national police check for your peace of mind.

Physiotherapy for long-term solutions

Plena Healthcare understands the immense value of physiotherapy in enhancing the quality of life for older Australians. Whether you’re experiencing mobility challenges or balance concerns, physiotherapy can play a key role in maintaining your independence and wellbeing.

Here are three significant benefits of physiotherapy for older individuals:

  1. Preventing falls and injuries
    As we age, maintaining balance and mobility becomes increasingly important. Physiotherapy can help strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and boost confidence to reduce the risk of falls and related injuries.
  2. Promoting heart health
    Regular physiotherapy can support better circulation and cardiovascular health, helping you stay active and feel energised.
  3. Overcoming age-related challenges
    From easing chronic pain to assisting with recovery after surgery or injury, physiotherapy addresses the physical challenges of ageing. It helps you stay mobile, achieve your personal goals, and enjoy an active lifestyle.

No matter your health needs, physiotherapy can offer tailored support to help you feel your best as you age.

Coverage across Australia

Plena Healthcare offers national coverage, delivering services to clients across regional, rural, and remote locations. With a workforce of over 1,300 allied health specialists, they are well-equipped to support clients regardless of location.

What’s on offer for care recipients?

As a Trilogy Care client, you can enjoy a 10% discount on Plena Healthcare services. Simply arrange your appointment through your care partner or care coordinator, who will assist with applying the discount to your service.

For additional information about Plena Healthcare’s services, visit their website here. Alternatively, contact your care partner or reach out to Trilogy Care directly on 1300 459 190. You can also connect with us via our website at anytime.

Better care, brighter futures: 2025 and beyond

2025 Trilogy Care update new year changes

As the New Year begins, we at Trilogy Care are looking ahead to explore how we can continue to enhance aged care for you. One of the most significant changes coming up is the Support at Home program, and we’re here to keep you updated and informed every step of the way.

We’re also making exciting improvements to our day-to-day services. From upgrading the Trilogy Care Portal to introducing new initiatives, everything we’re doing is focused on improving your experience as a care recipient.

Support at Home – helping you transition

On 1 July 2025, the Support at Home program will officially replace Home Care Packages. If this sounds overwhelming, don’t worry—Trilogy Care is here to guide you through the transition and ensure it’s as seamless as possible.

For those already receiving a Home Care Package, the “No Worse Off” principle guarantees you’ll retain your current care hours, funding, and services. Your wellbeing remains our top priority.

Have questions or concerns? Our team is always here to help and provide the information you need.

Trilogy Care Portal: easier, faster, better

We’ve been working behind the scenes to upgrade the Trilogy Care Portal, making it even easier for you to self-manage your care.

Here’s what’s new:

  • Improved budget visibility so you can see exactly where your funds are going
  • Faster payments for greater convenience
  • Simplified access to forms to save you time

These updates are part of our ongoing commitment to delivering a smoother, more efficient experience for you.

The Single Assessment System

In late 2024, the aged care assessment process underwent a big change. The introduction of the Single Assessment System (SAS) combines ACAT and RAS assessments, the old assessment systems, into one streamlined process.

With the SAS, you’ll benefit from:

  • A more effective way of identifying your care needs
  • Reassessments with the same organisation, so you don’t have to retell your story

This change makes accessing the right care simpler and less stressful for you.

Home Care Academy: expanded learning opportunities

Our Home Care Academy, launched in 2024, provides a free, valuable online learning resource for care recipients, their families, and carers. As we move into 2025, we’re adding even more courses to help you stay informed and empowered.

We’ll keep you updated on new courses and how they can benefit you.

Looking ahead to 2025

2025 is set to be a transformative year for aged care, and Trilogy Care is here to support you every step of the way.

From the introduction of Support at Home to exciting improvements in our Portal, Home Care Academy, and assessment systems, we’re focused on ensuring your experience continues to improve. As always, if you need assistance contact your care partner, call 1300 459 190, or send us a message on our website.

Thank you for being part of the Trilogy Care community. Together, we’re building a brighter future for aged care.

What is the AT-HM Scheme for care recipients?

AT-HM Scheme Support at Home

With the introduction of the Support at Home program, assistive technology and home modifications can be funded separately through the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme (AT-HM). As such, it’s important to understand the updated list of inclusions and exclusions under this scheme. 

Trilogy Care has created a list for you to refer to below. 

What are the inclusions?

The Department of Health and Aged Care has published a detailed list of items covered under the AT-HM Scheme. These inclusions fall into three main categories:

  • Low risk: Everyday products that are simple, low-cost, and do not require a prescription or customisation
  • Under advice: Low-risk items that may benefit from professional advice to ensure correct selection, installation, or more
  • Prescribed: Items requiring a prescription from a qualified health professional

Be aware of conditional inclusions

Some items are conditionally included, meaning they require additional eligibility criteria before funding is available. For example, some older individuals with incontinence may qualify for the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) to cover costs. Once CAPS funding is exhausted, these items can then be purchased using the AT-HM Scheme.

What is excluded?

Items that cannot be funded through the AT-HM Scheme are classified as exclusions. These are divided into two categories:

  • Currently funded by others: Items already funded under other Support at Home streams (e.g., wound care products, funded under Nursing Care) or through other government programs (e.g., primary health care or specialised schemes)
  • Out of scope for participants: Includes general household expenses, workplace items, children’s items, and products for public transport use

For a comprehensive list of inclusions and exclusions, please visit the the Department of Health’s website.

Trilogy Care is committed to supporting you through these changes. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your care partner. If you aren’t with Trilogy Care yet, contact us on 1300 459 190 or contact us via our website for assistance. 

The importance of personalised care at home

Since in-home support became part of the aged care system, major benefits have emerged for care recipients and providers alike. Many care recipients report that having access to personalised care in the comfort of their own home enhances their quality of life and well-being.

Your preferences matter

Self-managing with Trilogy Care empowers you to tailor your care and support to match your unique needs, wants, and preferences. One of the most essential aspects of in-home care is honouring your preferences. Having access to the activities and items you want in your life helps you maintain both your empowerment and independence, enabling you to live life on your terms.

At Trilogy Care, we prioritise your preferences throughout our service delivery. From the moment you join us, we work with you to develop a personalised care plan that reflects your individual needs and choices.

Flexibility is important

The ability to decide when and where you want services is key to reliable care. By self-managing with Trilogy Care, you’re empowered to be flexible in how you use your support hours and select the services that suit you best.

Choosing your care workers with Trilogy Care puts you in control of the services you receive and their frequency. For instance, if you need extra support during a specific week, you have the flexibility to increase your care if desired.

Your care - your choice

Trilogy Care’s main goal is to empower you to make the choices that matter most. Our team will work closely with you whenever your preferences evolve. Whether your needs shift weeks or months after beginning your Home Care Package journey, you’re free to choose different services that better suit you.

Simply reach out to your care partner to discuss any changes to your needs or preferences. We are here to collaborate with you and your care circle to adjust your support as needed.

Personalise your support with Trilogy Care

Trilogy Care empowers all care recipients to manage their own care, providing the flexibility to personalise support within Home Care Package guidelines. Our care team is available to assist whenever needed, so if your preferences shift, just contact your care partner to discuss how we can adapt your support.

If you’re not already with Trilogy Care and would like to enjoy the benefits of personalised care, flexibility, and choice, call our friendly team on 1300 459 190 or contact us at any time.

How often do I need a care assessment?

care assessment how often

Care assessments are crucial in determining what support services you need. They allow My Aged Care to determine the level of care you need and confirm your available funding.

This means it is essential to have an up-to-date care assessment, as your care needs may change over time. You may not be able to determine when your requirements change, so a care assessment ensures that you are receiving the services you need.

What is a care assessment?

A care assessment is an important part of the aged care process. It allows My Aged Care to assess your care needs based on a thorough review of your living situation, health, wellbeing, lifestyle, and ability to manage tasks at home.

Care assessments are typically conducted in your home, providing an accurate understanding of your circumstances. In some cases, they may take place at a medical practice or over the phone if necessary.

You can apply for a care assessment on the My Aged Care website or call 1800 200 422 for more information.

When should I have another care assessment?

It’s important to request a new care assessment if your needs change. If you feel your support requirements are not being met, it’s time for another assessment.

Changes in health, reduced mobility, or new challenges are all indicators that your care needs may have changed. However, even if you don’t notice any significant changes in your health, wellbeing, or lifestyle, it’s still recommended to have a reassessment. This ensures any unnoticed changes in your health are addressed.

Confirming your health needs

Even without obvious changes, it’s essential to receive updated care assessments regularly. My Aged Care recommends a full care assessment once every 12 months to ensure your care needs are being properly met. This allows a professional to confirm your current needs and assess if additional care is required.

Care assessments for Home Care Packages

For those receiving a Home Care Package, it’s important to regularly update your care assessment. Should your needs change, an updated assessment allows for additional funding. What worked for you before may no longer be enough as time passes.

Updating your care assessment also enables Trilogy Care’s team to revise your care plan. Once you notify us of your updated care assessment, our team will contact you to discuss any necessary changes to your plan.

For more details on the importance of care assessments, see our articles on care plans or ACAT assessments. Feel free to contact us or call 1300 459 190 for further assistance.

A guide to level 4 Home Care Packages

Level 4 Home Care Package

Understanding the options for home care services can be overwhelming, especially with the various levels of Home Care Package available. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the level 4 Home Care Package, detailing its services, eligibility criteria, costs, and the application process. Understanding these elements can help you or your loved one make informed decisions about accessing appropriate support. 

What is a level 4 Home Care Package?

A level 4 Home Care Package is assigned to older Australians living with high-level care needs. Typically, they require visits every day of the week, as those on this package require significant levels of assistance with many day-to-day tasks to remain healthy and independent. A standard level 4 Home Care Package provides around 36 hours of assistance every two weeks, depending on what your provider charges. 

What services are included in a level 4 Home Care Package?

A care recipient on a level 4 Home Care Package will receive assistance with most tasks, including social, physical, and medical tasks, as well as psychological care needs. Those one a level 4 package may receive care in the form of:

  • Personal care assistance: Help with bathing, dressing, and grooming
  • Household assistance: Keeping your home clean and tidy
  • Meal preparation and nutrition support: Ensuring you have healthy meals
  • Help with shopping: Assistance with groceries and other shopping needs
  • Transport to appointments and activities: Getting you to medical appointments and social events
  • Social activities and companionship: Promoting social engagement and preventing isolation
  • Garden maintenance: Taking care of your garden
  • Nursing services: Including wound care and medication management
  • Independent living aids and assistive technology: Enhancing mobility and safety
  • Home modifications: Such as installing safety equipment in your home
  • Allied health services: Including podiatry, physiotherapy, and speech therapy
  • Specialised support: Such as hearing and vision services, dementia care, and cognitive support
  • Behavioural support: Support with managing memory and behavioural changes
  • Advanced health support: Support for chronic health conditions, including dementia and severe heart conditions
  • Constant Care: 24-hour monitoring and care
  • Palliative Care

 These services are designed to allow care recipients to maintain a high quality of life and remain in their own homes for as long as possible.

Who is eligible for a level 4 Home Care Package?

Eligibility for a level 4 Home Care Package is determined through an assessment process known as the Single Assessment System. As of July 2024, the Single Assessment Systems replaced the Aged Care Assessment Teams (ACATs) in an effort to provide care recipients with a more streamlined, consistent, and flexible assessment process. Details regarding the new Single Assessment System can be found at this site.

The Single Assessment System evaluates the individual’s care needs and determines their suitability for different levels of Home Care Package. Generally, the following criteria must be met:

  • Age: Typically, available to those aged 65 and over or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
  • Care needs: Individuals with complex care needs may need to be visited most days a week.
  • Living situation: Preferably living at home and needing assistance to continue living independently.

You can check if you can receive services using My Aged Care’s eligibility check or apply for an assessment online if you are ready.

Are there costs associated with a level 4 Home Care Package?

A level 4 Home Care Package is divided into two main components:

Government contribution: The federal government provides a subsidy to cover the care costs. The subsidy for a level 4 package is currently set at around $2,356.62 a fortnight.

Individual contribution: Depending on your financial situation, you may be asked to contribute towards the cost of your care. This contribution can include:

    • Basic daily fee: This is a small fee that everyone receiving a Home Care Package may be asked to pay, currently capped at $168.33 per day. Trilogy Care DO NOT charge a basic daily fee.
    • Income-tested fees: Home Care Packages are means tested by Services Australia. Depending on your income, you may need to make an additional contribution. Full pensioners and people with an income less than $32,332 per year do not pay an income tested fee.

You can find a detailed breakdown of all the costs and fees associated with the Home Care Package here.

How to apply for a level 4 Home Care Package?

Applying for a level 4 Home Care Package involves contacting My Aged Care online or by phone. If you meet the minimum eligibility requirements, a member of the Single Assessment System workforce will visit your home for a free assessment. If eligible, you’ll receive an approval letter specifying your care level.

For more details, see our 5 steps to apply for a Home Care Package.

Choosing the right provider

After receiving approval for a Home Care Package, it’s essential to find an approved provider to ensure you get the best care possible. Use My Aged Care’s ‘Find a Provider’ tool to identify local providers that meet the standards set by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a provider:

  • Service Area: Does the provider offer services in your location?
  • Service Types: Do they provide the specific services you need?
  • Availability: Do they have availability to take you on as a client?
  • Personal Alignment: Do they respect and cater to any cultural or faith-based needs that are important to you?

Choosing a provider is a personal decision, and while recommendations can be valuable, it’s crucial to find the right match for your needs. Consider how involved you want to be in managing your care. Providers may offer fully managed, shared managed, or self-managed services, each affecting your budget, flexibility, and control differently. Not all providers offer both self-managed and fully managed options, so decide on your preferred level of involvement before making your choice.

For more details, see our blog on How to choose a Home Care Package provider.

How we can help

At Trilogy Care, we are completely transparent in our pricing. Our services are charged at a flat percentage – we do not hide behind any hidden fees or surcharges. We offer 15% of your Home Care Package for our Self-Managed tier or 26% of your Home Care Package for Self-Managed PLUS tier. 

 

This lower fee structure means more of your funds go directly towards your care rather than administrative costs. We can offer a more efficient use of your Home Care Package funds if you’re looking to switch providers or need a new provider.

 

Contact us today if you’d like to find out how Trilogy Care can help with your level 4 Home Care Package.

 

 

What are Home Care Package unspent funds?

Unspent Funds

Unspent funds—what are they, and why are they important? Every Home Care Package recipient will eventually have unspent funds in their account. Knowing what these funds are and how to use them is crucial.

What are unspent funds?

Put simply, unspent funds are the total funds left over in your Home Care Package that have not been assigned to a service or a fee. If the cost of your Home Care Package services and fees is less than what you received from your monthly package government subsidy, unspent funds are accrued in your account.

How unspent funds are accrued

Below is an example of how unspent funds are accrued on Home Care Packages.

Our example person, Drew, is on a level 4 Home Care Package and receives a monthly subsidy of $4,713.24. Drew’s care plan has budgeted $3,500 of his monthly funds for various care services that help him stay safe and independent at home. Drew is a full pensioner who self-manages at Trilogy Care, who only charge a 15% flat rate. Therefore his monthly fee is only $706.98. If we put this into our formula, we see that Drew is accruing $506.26 of unspent funds per month.

Unspent Funds

There are many reasons why a care recipient may begin accruing unspent funds. The most common reasons are:

  • Your package has been upgraded
  • You require less services
  • You have chosen to save funds
  • You have not been using services for some time

Managing unspent funds

The Department of Health and Aged Care states that unspent funds are yours to manage, so long as you do not leave aged care. Therefore, it is important to remember that your unspent funds are available to be used whenever required. Alternatively, if you know your future circumstances will change within the next few months, you can choose to continue saving unspent funds. This will mean you have a larger balance available for services in the future.

If you have a self-managed Home Care Package with Trilogy Care, you can simply call your care partner to discuss using your unspent funds effectively. Your care partner will be able to provide you with options for additional support services that your unspent funds can cover.

Changing providers

Your unspent funds are yours to keep, including when changing Home Care Package providers. Within 56 days of terminating your service with a provider, you will receive a written notice. This notice will outline your unspent care amount, any deducted fees (such as exit fees), and the timeframe and method for how they will pay unspent home care amounts.

Funds must be transferred from your original provider to your new provider within 70 days of selecting a new Home Care Package. This option is only available if you choose to remain in care. Otherwise the funds will be returned to the Australian Government.

Using unspent funds with Trilogy Care

At Trilogy Care, we understand that every provider may not match your goals and needs. We can assist you with coordinating your transfer over to our self-managed Home Care Package, where a care partner can help discuss what services to use your unspent fees on.

With our flat 15% fee, we can ensure you have more control over your support services. Our dedicated care partners will assist you in understanding how to manage the unspent funds you have accrued.

If you wish to discuss how Trilogy Care can best manage your unspent funds, give our friendly team a call on 1300 459 190 or contact us online. An online unspent fund example is available here, should you need more details on how to manage your Home Care Package funds.