Support at Home client types: which are you?

Support at Home client types, Support at Home participant types, grandfathered participant, hybrid participant, new participant, grandfathered client, new client, hybrid client

From 1 November 2025, Support at Home replaces Home Care Packages. It marks a shift in how aged care at home is funded and delivered, with new rules for service pricing and personal contributions. What you pay depends on which group you’re in and the type of support you receive. This guide explains the three groups in plain English and shows how client contributions work under the Contribution Framework, including how to confirm your group and what your weekly costs might look like.

Work out your client type

Grandfathered clients

  • Approved for a Home Care Package on or before 12 September 2024, including if you were on the waitlist or already receiving a package
  • Protected by the no worse off principle for fees

Hybrid clients

  • Approved for a Home Care Package between 13 September 2024 and 30 June 2025
  • Move to the Contribution Framework from the Support at Home start date

New clients

  • Assessed and start services on or after 1 November 2025
  • Pay contributions under the Contribution Framework from day one

What you’ll pay under Support at Home

  • Services Australia sets your personal contribution rate using your income and assets
  • Providers set service prices, and your contribution is a percentage of each service price
  • Financial hardship assistance is available if you qualify

Contribution by service type

Clinical supports (e.g. nursing, wound care, allied health)
• No client contributions

Independence supports (e.g. personal care, reablement supports, eligible AT-HM)
• Moderate client contributions

Everyday living supports (e.g. domestic assistance, gardening, errands)
• Higher client contributions

Simple decision path

  • Were you approved for a Home Care Package on or before 12 September 2024?
    – Yes → You are a grandfathered client and protected by the no worse off principle.
    – No → Go to the next question.
  • Were you approved between 13 September 2024 and 30 June 2025?
    – Yes → You are a hybrid client and move to the Contribution Framework at program start.
    – No → You are a new client and pay contributions under the new framework from day one.

Support at Home client type examples

Example 1: A full Age Pensioner approved in July 2024 will be Grandfathered from 1 November 2025. Their contributions won’t increase under Support at Home. Clinical supports remain fully funded.

Example 2: Someone approved in October 2024 will be Hybrid. From 1 November 2025 they’ll pay percentage-based contributions by service type. Clinical supports remain fully funded. Exact dollar amounts depend on provider prices and their assessed rate.

Support at Home client FAQs

Do full Age Pensioners pay for clinical care?
No. Clinical supports are fully government-funded for all clients.

How will I know my exact contribution rate?
Services Australia will confirm your personal rate. Your weekly costs then depend on your mix of services and your provider’s service prices.

Will my contributions change if my needs change?
Grandfathered clients are protected by the no worse off principle. Hybrid and new clients may see changes if their assessed rate or service mix changes.

Where can I get help if I cannot afford my contributions?
You may be eligible for financial hardship assistance. Talk to your Trilogy Care Care Partner for guidance and evidence requirements.

What to do next to prepare

  • Visit our Support at Home hub for the latest updates, checklists and plain-English explainers
  • Use our calculator to estimate weekly contributions based on your services and rate
  • Talk to your Care Partner to review your Support Plan and service prices before 1 November 2025
  • Ask about AT-HM if equipment or home modifications would support your independence
  • Contact Trilogy Care if you are unsure of your client type we will confirm it and map likely weekly costs with you

From 1 November 2025, Support at Home changes how contributions work. If you are Grandfathered, you keep your current fee settings under the no worse off principle. Hybrid and new clients pay percentage-based contributions by service type, with clinical supports fully funded. Your weekly costs depend on your personal rate and your provider’s service prices.

If you’re unsure which group you’re in, contact Trilogy Care. Our team will confirm your group, review your Support Plan and Service List, use our Calculator to map likely weekly costs, and guide you through hardship options if needed.

Pension changes in September and what they mean for you

Deeming rates 2025, Deeming rates September, pension changes

If your Age Pension takes a hit, it impacts life fast. In September, some part-pensioners may see their fortnightly payment reduced as Centrelink updates assessed income from financial assets. The goal now is to protect your care hours and keep more of your Home Care Package working for you.

At Trilogy Care, we help you take control so more of your budget reaches the frontline, not overheads.

Protect your care hours even if your pension is reduced

Centrelink uses assumed earnings on bank accounts, term deposits, shares and super in retirement phase to work out your assessed income. If assessed income rises, the income test can reduce your Age Pension. Some people will still see a small increase from September indexation, others may see little change, and some will see a reduction. The best response is a plan that keeps essential services in place.

Quick actions to take this month

  1. Update your recorded balances in myGov so Centrelink assesses current figures
  2. Ask your provider for a clear fee breakdown showing care versus overheads
  3. Review your care plan and use any unspent funds to shore up priority supports

Stretch your Home Care Package when income tightens

When every dollar counts, provider efficiency matters. Focus on the levers you control.

  • Compare provider fees and inclusions side by side so you are not overpaying for administration
  • Consider self-management or our Self Managed PLUS model to keep more funding in direct services
  • Match your care roster to what you need now and cut budget leaks like long travel times

Why switching provider can feel like a pay rise for your care

When assessed income changes, your provider choice becomes a financial decision. Trilogy Care is built to keep more of your package in actual support.

  • Transparent pricing and monthly clarity so you can see where every dollar goes
  • Self-management and hybrid options that give you control and reduce overheads
  • Proactive care plan reviews to target the highest impact services first

If you are also hearing about Support at Home changes this year, we can walk you through what they mean for your budget and your home care fees.

see how you can save with Trilogy Care

What else is changing this year?

  • Care management will be set at 10% of your quarterly budget
  • Package management will roll into service prices rather than a separate fee
  • Budgets will move to quarterly with limits on how much you can roll over
  • Assistive Technology and Home Modifications will have a separate funding pool

Pension changes by the numbers

  • Pension payments index in September, but some part-pensioners may see a reduction if assessed income rises
  • Hundreds of thousands of older Australians could be affected
  • Deeming rates are scheduled to lift on 20 September and can influence assessed income
    • Lower rate 0.75%
    • Upper rate 2.75%
    • Lower-rate thresholds $64,200 for singles and $106,200 for couples combined
  • Outcomes vary person to person because the income test and assets test both apply

This article is general information only. Your Age Pension outcome depends on your specific income and assets. Trilogy Care can help you understand options, but we do not provide financial advice. Call our team on 1300 459 190 to discuss how we can help you make the most of your budget.

Struggling to understand Support at Home? View our case studies!

Support at Home case studies, aged care case studies, Trilogy Care case studies

With the Support at Home program set to replace Home Care Packages on 1 November 2025, many people are still unclear about how the aged care system is changing. To help guide people through the process, Trilogy Care has developed a series of real-life case study videos to help explain exactly what’s coming and what it means for you.

These videos form part of our aged care 2025 guide, practical resources designed to support older Australians, their families, and carers in understanding the changes.

Whether you’re a Grandfathered client, a Hybrid client, or just starting out, the videos walk through realistic scenarios that show how Support at Home will work day to day.

Why watch the Support at Home case study series?

The reforms introduce new budgets, contribution rules, service categories and provider processes. But for many people, it’s hard to translate this into what it means in real life.

Our Support at Home guide resources include case study videos to break it down. Each video follows a client scenario and shows how services, fees and support options apply under the new model.

These case studies are designed for:

  • Clients transitioning from a Home Care Package
  • Families supporting someone in aged care
  • People preparing to enter care after 1 November 2025
  • Anyone considering self-management under the new system

What do the videos cover?

Each video is under ten minutes and focused on a key topic:

You can watch one or all, depending on your needs.

Straightforward, real-life examples

These videos don’t over-explain or rely on jargon. They show what the new model looks like for people with different care needs and funding levels, so you can better prepare for the changes ahead.

Whether you’re managing services yourself or working with a Registered Provider, these videos will help you understand your options.

Watch now and learn about Support at Home

The full case study series is now available on Trilogy Care’s YouTube channel. Trilogy Care is committed to helping clients make informed, confident decisions as the aged care system transitions.

These case studies are just one part of our ongoing support, and we’ll continue to update the series as more details are confirmed ahead of the November launch. For more Support at Home information, call 1300 459 190 or visit our Support at Home information hub.

The restorative care pathway: Is it just for falls?

Restorative Care Pathway, restorative care partner, short-term care pathway

When people hear about the restorative care pathway in the new Support at Home program, they often assume it’s just for recovering from falls or physical injuries. While it certainly helps in those situations, the restorative care pathway is much more than that. It’s a short-term, targeted program designed to help you regain or improve your independence after any change in health or ability.

Let’s explore what the restorative care pathway really offers and who can benefit.

What is the restorative care pathway?

The restorative care pathway is a short-term support pathway under Support at Home that gives you access to up to 12 weeks of intensive allied health and nursing services. In some cases, it can even be extended by another four weeks.

It’s aimed at helping you:

  • Regain strength, function or mobility after illness, hospitalisation or a fall
  • Manage a new or worsening health condition
  • Build confidence to return to everyday activities
  • Stay independent in your home for as long as possible

Rather than simply maintaining your current condition, the restorative care pathway focuses on improving it through tailored, professional support.

So, is it just for falls recovery?

No. While falls are a common reason people access the restorative care pathway, they’re just one of many scenarios where it can help.

Other examples include:

  • Recovering strength and stamina after a long illness or surgery
  • Improving balance and confidence after hospitalisation
  • Managing a newly diagnosed chronic condition, such as Parkinson’s or arthritis
  • Rebuilding everyday living skills after an extended period of reduced activity
  • Regaining independence after a mental health episode, such as depression or anxiety, that affected mobility or self-care

If you’ve experienced any functional decline, whether physically, cognitively, or emotionally, and there’s potential to improve, you may benefit from the restorative care pathway.

Who is eligible for the pathway?

Anyone who meets the following criteria could be referred for assessment:

  • Aged 65 or over (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
  • Living at home, not in permanent residential aged care
  • Has a short-term goal to improve or regain independence
  • Has a condition that can reasonably be improved with targeted therapy and support

Your restorative care partner or assessor will help determine if the restorative care pathway is the right fit for your needs.

How does it work?

Once approved, you’ll work with a restorative care partner – a health professional who coordinates your care. Together, you’ll create a personalised goal plan, which may include:

The aim is to meet your goals within the program’s timeframe, helping you regain independence and confidence.

Don't forget the restorative care pathway

The restorative care pathway is a fantastic opportunity for older Australians to improve their health, confidence and quality of life after a setback. It’s not just about falls; it’s about giving you the support you need to bounce back, whatever the cause of your decline.

If you think you or a loved one could benefit from the restorative care pathway, speak to your care partner or care coordinator about a referral today, or call us on 1300 459 190 to learn more.

Home Care Packages – How do you get one and what is the cost?

Home Care Package cost cost of a Home Care Package How can I get a Home Care Package how to apply for a Home Care Package

Getting older doesn’t mean you have to leave the home you love. If you or a loved one need a little extra support to stay independent, a Home Care Package can help. But many people feel overwhelmed by the process or worry about the cost. The good news is, help is available — and it’s more affordable than you might think.

In this guide, we explain how to get a Home Care Package and what it could cost, so you can feel confident about your next steps.

How do I get a Home Care Package?

A Home Care Package is a government-subsidised program designed to help older Australians live at home longer by providing access to care and support services.

So you may be asking, “How do I get a Home Care Package?”

Here’s how to apply:

  • Check your eligibility – You must be aged 65 or older (or 50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) and need support with daily tasks.
  • Book an assessment – Contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or online. They will arrange for the Single Assessment Service (SAS) to visit you and assess your care needs.
  • Receive your outcome – If approved, you’ll be assigned a Home Care Package level (1–4) based on your care needs. Level 1 provides basic support; Level 4 is for high-level care.
  • Choose your provider – Once your package is assigned, you can choose an approved provider — like Trilogy Care — to deliver your care and manage your funding.

If you need help at any stage, Trilogy Care can guide you through the application process, free of charge.

What are the costs?

One of the biggest concerns people have is about home care services cost. The government pays the bulk of your Home Care Package, but you may be asked to contribute, depending on your circumstances.

Possible contributions

You might pay:

  • Basic daily fee – many providers (including Trilogy Care) choose not to charge this.
  • Income-tested care fee – if your income is above a certain amount, you may pay an additional contribution, as determined by Services Australia.

Trilogy Care prides itself on transparent pricing with no hidden costs. We’ll explain any potential contributions up front, so there are no surprises.

How to get the best value from your Home Care Package

Once you’ve secured your package, you can use it to pay for a wide range of services, including:

  • Personal care (e.g. showering, dressing)
  • Domestic help (e.g. cleaning, meals)
  • Allied health services (e.g. physiotherapy, podiatry)
  • Social support and transport

At Trilogy Care, we help you design a care plan that suits your needs and make sure you get the most from your budget.

Trilogy Care can guide you

If you’re ready to take the next step or just want some advice, contact Trilogy Care today. Our friendly team can help you apply for a Home Care Package, choose the right services, and understand the costs.

Give our friendly team a call on 1300 459 190 to further discuss your aged care options or learn more about self-management.

Real client stories: How Trilogy Care makes a difference

Trilogy Care client stories, Trilogy Care review, Trilogy care testimonial, aged care review

Navigating aged care for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming — especially with shifting government programs, complex systems, and a long list of decisions. At Trilogy Care, we understand how daunting that can be. Many of our clients come to us feeling unsure of where to begin — but they don’t stay that way for long.

This article explores what clients experience once they join Trilogy Care, and how the right support can do more than improve your care — it can improve your confidence, clarity and peace of mind.

Real people, real stories, real care

Judith and Barry Burton live in Noosaville and have been married for over 60 years. Judith has been on a Home Care Package since 2016 and describes her care partner as “just wonderful”.

“She listens, she processes requests quickly… I can’t speak highly enough of the support she gives and the services Trilogy provides.”

Judith and Barry say having access to reliable in-home support through Trilogy Care has helped them maintain their lifestyle — and their independence.

“I’ve been a very independent female all my life. Since we’ve had access to all the support, it’s helped a lot — and helped in our relationship too.”

For Barry, the support has brought peace of mind.

“Judith made me promise I’d never put her in an aged care home. This care package has made that possible. We really couldn’t do without it now.”

“A fantastic service”

Sharon and Gary, who live on the Gold Coast, found Trilogy Care after Gary experienced a major health event. They chose to self-manage his Home Care Package, and wanted a provider that could guide them clearly.

“We searched around and found Trilogy… and we’ve been with them since last September. We’re very, very happy with what’s been happening.”

From applying for equipment to navigating the system, Sharon says they’ve felt empowered every step of the way.

“The service we’ve received has been absolutely fantastic — great people to deal with, beautiful conversations on the phone. The help we’ve had has been essential for us both to keep going forward.”

“We want to be at home — together. That’s the biggest thing in the world.”

Clarity in a complex system

The Australian home care system is changing. With the Support at Home program commencing on 1 November 2025, many clients are asking what this means for them. That’s why one of the first things we do is offer tailored guidance, so clients can understand their circumstances and plan ahead with confidence.

Flexible support, your way

Whether you prefer full provider support or choose to self-manage your Home Care Package, Trilogy Care adapts to your goals — not the other way around. Our flexible model gives you control, expert advice, and responsive support when you need it.

Trusted relationships, every step of the way

At Trilogy Care, we’re committed to more than just compliance — we build meaningful relationships with every client. We take the time to understand your story, listen to your needs, and help you navigate changes with respect and transparency. As Judith says:

“Since joining Trilogy, life has been more relaxing — we’ve become more caring about each other and other people too.”

Looking ahead with confidence

We know that the move to Support at Home will bring changes to funding, service lists and personal contributions — especially for new and Hybrid clients. That’s why we’re already preparing, reviewing care plans with clients, and staying up to date with the latest government guidance. With Trilogy Care, clients don’t have to face uncertainty alone.

If you’re considering a Home Care Package and want a provider who respects your goals, your voice and your right to choose, Trilogy Care is here to help. We support clients across Australia with clear guidance, flexible support options, and a commitment to care that puts people first.

To speak with our team, call 1300 459 190 or visit trilogycare.com.au for more information.

What is respite care? Short-term support in aged care

What is respite care? respite care short-term care respite

When caring for an older loved one, taking a break is not only okay — it’s essential. That’s where respite care comes in. In this blog, Trilogy Care will answer the question, “What is respite care?” and explain why it is so crucial.

What is respite care?

Respite care is short-term aged care support designed to give a person’s regular carer — often a partner or family member — time to rest and recharge. It ensures that older people continue to receive quality care while their usual carer takes a break.

Whether it’s for a few hours, a day, or even several weeks, respite care aged care services allow carers to take time for themselves, attend appointments, or manage other responsibilities with peace of mind.

Types of respite care in aged care

There are several ways respite care can be delivered:

  • In-home respite: A care worker comes to the client’s home to provide care, supervision, or companionship
  • Community-based respite: Structured day programs offering social activities and meals
  • Residential respite: A short-term stay in an aged care facility, suitable for clients with higher support needs

Why is respite care important?

Caring for a family member or friend can be emotionally and physically demanding. Regular respite helps carers avoid burnout and maintain their own health and wellbeing. It also gives older Australians the opportunity to socialise with new people and experience different environments — all while receiving safe, personalised care.

How is it changing under Support at Home?

From 1 November 2025, the Australian Government will replace the Home Care Packages program with the new Support at Home program. With this change, how respite care is accessed and funded will also shift.

Key updates include:

  • Respite care will fall under the Independence support category
  • Clients will use their quarterly budget to fund respite services
  • All respite must be listed on the government-approved Service List
  • Clients need to have respite care documented in their Support Plan to access funding

While the purpose of respite care remains the same — giving carers vital downtime — the new structure ensures more transparency and consistency in how respite is delivered and paid for.

How Trilogy Care can help

Trilogy Care supports clients and carers by helping them navigate their options under both the current Home Care Packages program and the upcoming Support at Home model. If you’re thinking about adding respite care to your support plan, we’re here to guide you through the process with flexible, client-focused solutions.

Want to learn more about respite care and how it fits into your aged care plan? Contact Trilogy Care today on 1300 459 190 to get started.

What are care providers?

What is a care provider? care providers aged care providers

Navigating Australia’s aged care system can be challenging. For older people and their families, asking “what are care providers?” is not unusual. An understanding of the role of care providers in aged care is the first step in making confident and informed choices about Support at Home.

Care providers in aged care are organisations approved by the Australian Government to deliver services under aged care programs, including Home Care Packages and the upcoming Support at Home program. These providers are responsible for coordinating and delivering a wide range of supports to help older people remain safe, healthy, and independent in their own homes.

Whether you’re beginning your aged care journey or considering switching providers, knowing what home care service providers offer, and how they operate is essential.

The role of home care service providers

Home care service providers manage government-funded care and services for older people living at home. They act as the central point of contact, planning and coordinating support based on a person’s unique care needs, personal goals, and approved budget.

Services arranged by these providers may include:

  • Personal care (e.g. showering, grooming, continence support)
  • Domestic assistance (e.g. cleaning, laundry, meal preparation)
  • Clinical and nursing care
  • Allied health services such as physiotherapy or podiatry
  • Social support and transport
  • Home maintenance and modifications
  • Assistive technology and equipment

In addition to service delivery, homecare providers ensure that all services align with the Government’s approved service list and are compliant with funding guidelines.

Care providers under Support at Home

With the transition to the Support at Home program on 1 November 2025, the responsibilities of care providers will continue to evolve. Under the new model, home aged care providers will manage clients’ quarterly budgets rather than daily subsidies, and service categories will be more clearly defined into clinical care, independence, and everyday living.

Key changes include:

  • A 10% care management fee applied to each quarterly budget
  • Streamlined service categories
  • New classification levels replacing the traditional four-tier HCP model
  • Revised contribution rules for Hybrid and New clients.

Registered providers must also support their clients to understand and adjust to these changes, ensuring transparency and quality during the transition period.

Choosing the right homecare provider

Finding the right homecare provider is about more than ticking boxes — it’s about forming a partnership based on respect, communication, and flexibility.

When comparing providers, consider:

  • Their approach to client-led care planning
  • Clarity around fees and service pricing
  • Experience supporting both Grandfathered and Hybrid clients
  • Their ability to help you self-manage your services if desired
  • Responsiveness and communication practices

At Trilogy Care, we’re proud to be a trusted home care service provider, offering a tailored approach that puts our clients first. We make it easy to get started, switch providers, or navigate the upcoming Support at Home program with confidence.

Empowering older Australians to choose the right care provider

As reforms reshape Australia’s aged care system, understanding the role and responsibilities of care providers in aged care is more important than ever. Whether you’re currently receiving services or exploring options, the right homecare provider will support your independence, listen to your goals, and help you make the most of your funding.

If you’re seeking personalised support with a transparent, flexible provider, contact Trilogy Care on 1300 459 190 — we’re here to help you age well at home.

What are the Strengthened Quality Standards in aged care?

Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, New aged care act, new aged care standards

As part of sweeping reforms under the new Aged Care Act, commencing 1 November 2025, through the Support at Home program, the Australian Government has introduced Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards. These Standards aim to ensure every older Australian receives safe, high-quality and person-centred care.

At Trilogy Care, we are fully committed to embedding these standards into our service model. We align them with our own Trilogy Care quality standards, built on client dignity, independence, and trust.

Below, we explore each of the seven strengthened quality standards and what they mean in practice for Trilogy Care clients, families, staff and providers.

Please note, these Quality Standards are subject to change before 1 November.

1. The individual

This standard places people at the centre of aged care. It ensures care is respectful, inclusive, trauma-aware and culturally safe.

What this looks like at Trilogy Care:

  • Every client’s story, preferences, goals, and choices are central to their care plan
  • Services are tailored, not standardised, to reflect individual needs
  • We work with clients, families, and representatives to uphold identity and rights

It reinforces the right to make decisions, understand options, and receive support that respects dignity and promotes independence.

2. The organisation

This standard ensures aged care providers operate with strong governance, accountability, and continuous improvement.

At Trilogy Care, this includes:

  • Ethical leadership and transparent decision-making
  • Clear complaints and feedback channels, with timely responses
  • Risk management and quality assurance processes that protect clients

Clients can trust that Trilogy Care is accountable for delivering safe, consistent and reliable care backed by strong internal systems.

3. The care and services

This standard covers how care is planned, delivered and evaluated, ensuring it is safe, coordinated, timely and effective.

Key elements we implement:

  • Comprehensive support plans built in collaboration with each client
  • Regular reviews to ensure care keeps up with changing needs
  • Evidence-based practices across all service types, including personal care, respite, and social support

We are committed to ensuring every service adds value to the client’s health, wellbeing and daily living.

4. The environment

Clients must receive care in an environment that is safe, clean, accessible and home-like — whether in their own home or a facility.

In home care settings, this includes:

  • Supporting clients to maintain a safe, functional home environment
  • Identifying risks through regular reviews (e.g. falls, clutter, accessibility)
  • Coordinating equipment and minor home modifications via AT-HM funding when needed

This standard reinforces that a safe environment is fundamental to independence and quality of life.

5. Clinical care

Where clinical care is delivered (e.g. nursing, medication management or allied health), this standard sets clear requirements for clinical governance, safety, and outcomes.

In a Trilogy Care context:

  • We partner with qualified professionals to deliver safe clinical services
  • Medication support, wound care, and chronic disease management follow best practice
  • Documentation and follow-up care are coordinated by the care partner

Even in home settings, clients can expect clinical care that meets high professional standards.

6. Food and nutrition

This standard ensures food and drink provided or supported under aged care are nutritious, enjoyable, and aligned with each person’s needs and preferences.

What this means in home care:

  • Delivered meals and shopping support are planned in consultation with the client
  • Preferences related to culture, medical conditions, or religious practices are respected
  • Where possible, we support clients to maintain autonomy in food choices and preparation

Good nutrition is linked to wellbeing, strength and mental health — so this standard is critical.

7. The residential community

This final standard only applies to residential aged care. It ensures those living in residential settings can enjoy a sense of community, belonging, connection, and routine.

Although Trilogy Care is a home care provider, this standard highlights the importance of:

  • Social connection
  • Consistency in care
  • Respect for each person’s lifestyle and choices

We reflect this principle by encouraging community engagement and supporting clients to maintain routines and relationships at home.

Protecting your rights under the New Aged Care Act

The Statement of Rights, a key feature of the new Act, protects every person’s right to:

  • Be treated with dignity and respect
  • Receive quality care and services
  • Be informed and involved in decisions
  • Live free from abuse or neglect

At Trilogy Care, we’re already embedding these rights into our policies, training and service delivery. We take the transition seriously and are preparing staff, clients and systems well ahead of 1 November 2025.

The new standards put you first

The strengthened standards are designed to ensure aged care quality across all settings, home care or residential care, and across all providers. Trilogy Care is proud to meet these benchmarks and uphold the trust clients place in us every day.

We’re here to help you understand these changes, prepare for the future, and continue delivering care that puts people first. If you have questions or queries about how the Support at Home program or the standards will impact you, give us a call on 1300 459 190.

Friendship as a form of care – celebrating International Day of Friendship

International Day of Friendship, friends, aged care friendship

In November 2025, the Support at Home program will become the new foundation for in-home aged care across Australia. This shift will bring renewed focus to what meaningful care looks like—not just in services delivered, but in the human relationships that support wellbeing. That’s why the International Day of Friendship 2025 is more than just a date on the calendar.

The event is a reminder that friendship is a form of care, one that matters just as much as assistive technology or domestic support. For older Australians living independently at home, and for their families and care partners, friendship is often the invisible thread that holds care together.

Friendship in the Support at Home community

Under the Support at Home program, clients will work with care partners and care coordinators to build a flexible care plan, funded by quarterly budgets and tailored to individual goals. But beyond those structures, there’s something deeply human at play: the connections we build with those around us.

Friends in aged care settings can take many forms:
• A companion who joins you on a morning walk
• A neighbour who checks in with a friendly smile
• A support worker who remembers your stories and makes time for a chat
• A fellow client you see at community group activities

These relationships don’t just fill time. They build trust, reduce loneliness, and support emotional and cognitive health. In fact, studies show that strong social networks among older people are linked to slower functional decline, reduced hospital admissions and improved overall wellbeing. As we celebrate International Day of Friendship we are reminded of how important community and friendships are in our lives.

For families and caregivers: friendship provides comfort and continuity

For families supporting someone receiving aged care, peace of mind is often tied to connection. It’s not just about knowing your loved one is safe—it’s about knowing they’re seen, heard, and emotionally supported.

When aged care friendships are present, whether it’s a familiar care worker or a social group that feels like family, families feel more confident. They know their loved one is part of a wider Support at Home community, not navigating ageing in isolation.

This is especially true for clients who live alone or have limited family contact. For them, friendship may come through regular check-ins, phone conversations, or the consistent presence of a support worker who becomes a trusted part of daily life.

The role of friendship in healthy ageing

From an aged care perspective, friendship aligns closely with the goals of Support at Home and Home Care Packages. The program is designed to help older Australians live independently for longer, but that independence isn’t just physical, it’s social and emotional too.

International Day of Friendship 2025 reminds us that friendship supports:
• Confidence to engage in the community
• Reduced feelings of isolation, anxiety and depression
• A greater sense of purpose and motivation
• Better adherence to routines, including appointments and self-care

These are not fringe benefits, they’re essential outcomes. And they’re often delivered not through services, but through the relationships built around those services.

Friendship is a form of care at Trilogy Care

At Trilogy Care, we believe care is most powerful when it’s personal. That’s why we support every client’s right to build meaningful relationships, whether through social support visits, transport to group events, or simply allowing time for conversation during care routines.

Our team understands that friends in aged care aren’t an ‘extra’ but rather a core part of ageing well at home. We encourage families and care partners to talk with us about how connection and companionship can be included in the care plan.

This International Day of Friendship, we celebrate the carers who show kindness, the neighbours who drop by, the old friends who still call, and the new connections waiting to be made.

Because at every stage of life, friendship is care.

If you’re looking to connect more with your community and the people around you, get in touch with Trilogy Care today on 1300 459 190.