Support at Home services - what is available?

Support at Home - what services home care services pricing list

The list of Support at Home services has been published, detailing the services and support you can access with your new funding. These services are grouped into 14 categories, including personal care, meal support, and nursing care. Each category clearly outlines what is included and excluded.

Trilogy Care has reviewed the service list and highlighted key changes you should know before the Support at Home program begins on 1 November 2025.

Please note that these changes are all all subject to the passage of the Bill through Parliament. 

Below is an overview of the service types and how they apply to Support at Home care recipients. Please note, the home care services pricing list is subject to change.

Nursing care

Support at Home offers nursing care to address clinical needs through qualified nurses and nursing assistants. This includes assessing, treating, and monitoring health conditions, managing wounds, administering medications, and providing education to care recipients. However, services already funded through other programs, such as specialist palliative care, are not included.

Allied Health and other therapeutic services

Older Australians can access healthcare specialists such as dietitians, therapists, physiotherapists, and podiatrists under Support at Home.

Funding is available for treatment programs designed to help care recipients manage their own care when possible, promoting independence. Follow-up services related to assistive technology and home modifications are also supported.

Support at Home does not cover treatments that can be funded through other programs or the healthcare system, nor does it cover conditions unrelated to age-related decline, such as acute mental health issues. These are not included on the home care services pricing list.

Nutrition

Support at Home covers prescribed dietary supplements or aids required due to age-related decline. Providers can also apply for the Enteral Feeding for Aged Care Supplement through Services Australia, where eligible. General expenses, such as weight loss supplements, are not covered.

Care management

Care management covers costs related to supporting in-home care, including care planning, service coordination, advocacy, and education.

Administrative costs covered under service prices are excluded from this category.

Restorative care management

Restorative care management focuses on coordinating care for older people undergoing short-term Restorative Care. Care partners in this category must have clinical qualifications.

As with care management, administrative costs funded through service pricing are excluded. 

Personal care

Personal care services help older people maintain independence in daily life. Under Support at Home, these services include assistance with personal hygiene, daily activities, medication, and continence management. Professional services and those funded through other programs are not included.

Social support and community engagement

This category covers individual or group support, social activities, cultural support, digital education, and assistance with personal affairs.

It can include simple activities like meeting with friends or attending events, as well as more complex needs such as translation services. Membership fees, service fees, and activities funded by other programs are not covered.

Therapeutic services for independent living

Therapeutic services include acupuncturists, chiropractors, remedial massage therapists, and osteopaths. However, these services are only funded if other programs do not provide coverage.

Respite

Respite care provides relief for the usual carer by another person. Respite care funded by other programs, such as residential respite under the AN-ACC model, is not covered.

Transport

The Transport category covers both direct and indirect transport services, such as taxis or rideshares. However, expenses such as buying a vehicle, public transport costs, or holiday travel cannot be funded.

Assistive technology and home modifications

Support at Home provides funding for assistive technology and home modifications through the AT-HM scheme. This funding is in addition to quarterly services funding, and supports equipment and home adjustments needed to maintain your independence, comfort, and safety.

Domestic assistance

Domestic assistance covers help with tasks like general cleaning, laundry, and shopping. However, it does not include professional services like pest control, carpet cleaning, or dry cleaning. Groceries are also not covered under shopping assistance.

Home maintenance and repairs

Home maintenance covers tasks like light gardening, lawn mowing, and minor repairs. Professional services are excluded unless there are significant age-related risks. Landlord responsibilities, housing authority work, or items covered by insurance are also not funded.

Meals

Support at Home can fund meal preparation and delivery. However, it cannot be used for ingredients, takeaway food, or meals for others in the household.

More details about Support at Home services

This article provides an overview of the 14 service categories funded under the Support at Home program. For more details on the home care services pricing list, visit this link or download a copy from this site.

If you’d like to speak with someone about Support at Home, call us on 1300 459 190 or via our website.

Introducing Home Care Academy

Home Care Academy

As the global population ages, the need for quality home care services continues to grow. Families, caregivers, coordinators, and care recipients all want to ensure that in-home care is both effective and compassionate. Introducing Home Care Academy—an educational platform created by Trilogy Care to elevate the standards of home care through accessible and comprehensive education for everyone involved in the care journey.

What is Home Care Academy?

Home Care Academy is an innovative online platform powered by Trilogy Care, designed to equip caregivers, family members, and care recipients with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate in-home care. Whether you are a professional support worker, a family member caring for a loved one, or a care recipient wanting to understand and engage in your care, Home Care Academy offers resources tailored to your needs.

Quality care starts with quality education. Providing or receiving care at home can present unique challenges, from managing daily tasks to addressing complex medical needs. Home Care Academy offers tools, guidance, and confidence to navigate these challenges with compassion and respect.

Why Home Care Academy?

Home Care Academy is committed to delivering high-quality, practical training and resources for everyone involved in home care. Our curriculum covers essential topics like personal care, managing chronic conditions, dementia care, and emergency preparedness, ensuring that learners can immediately apply their knowledge to real-life situations. Developed by industry experts, our courses are accurate, relevant, and designed for flexible, on-demand learning that fits your schedule.

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment. Our training materials are culturally sensitive, ensuring all learners feel respected and supported regardless of background, culture, or experience level. Upon completion, learners receive certifications that acknowledge their skills and commitment to quality care.

Beyond education, we foster a supportive community where caregivers, families, and care recipients can connect, share experiences, and continue learning. Courses will be released progressively, offering a comprehensive and accessible learning journey for all.

A resource for everyone involved in care

Home Care Academy was designed for a wide audience. Professional caregivers can enhance their skills and advance their careers, while family members can gain the confidence they need to care for loved ones at home. Care recipients can better understand their care, empowering them to take an active role in decisions that affect their daily lives. Care coordinators can deepen their expertise to provide effective support and manage care plans.

Looking ahead

As we prepare to launch Home Care Academy, we are excited about the impact it will have on home care across the country. By providing comprehensive education and fostering a community of informed and compassionate individuals, we aim to raise the standard of home care—ensuring that every person receiving or providing care at home does so with dignity, respect, and the highest quality of service.

We invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you’re a professional caregiver, a family member, a care recipient, or a coordinator, Home Care Academy is here to support you every step of the way.

Click here to view Home Care Academy!

Discover the future of home care education with Home Care Academy—where knowledge meets compassion.

World Diabetes Day

World Diabetes Day

Every year on 14 November, people around the globe recognise World Diabetes Day. Established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation, the event was created in response to growing concerns about diabetes. It advocates for better access to care and support for those living with diabetes, providing an opportunity for healthcare professionals, advocates, and policymakers to raise awareness and take action.

What is the theme of World Diabetes Day in 2024?

In 2024, the theme of World Diabetes Day is wellbeing. People living with diabetes deserve the opportunity to live fulfilling lives, regardless of their condition. The event raises awareness about the quality-of-life issues faced by those with diabetes.

The focus is on three categories of well-being:

  • Physical wellbeing – Encourages staying physically active and maintaining a healthy diet to manage diabetes and related complications.
  • Societal wellbeing – Seeks to break down barriers that prevent people with diabetes from living full, unrestricted lives.
  • Mental wellbeing – Highlights the mental challenges of living with diabetes, including stress and anxiety.

Diabetes in aged care

Managing diabetes can be particularly challenging for people in aged care. As we age, our bodies respond differently to diabetes, making it critical to monitor how your body reacts. Older people need to focus on leading an active lifestyle, including regular exercise, to improve insulin sensitivity.

A healthy diet is also crucial. Poor eating habits can lead to low blood glucose, triggering a diabetic episode. It’s common for older people to have fewer warning signs of diabetes, so close monitoring is essential.

Symptoms of diabetes

There are several signs of diabetes that people living with the condition and their carers should be aware of:

  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Increased or reduced appetite
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Weight loss
  • Glucose in the urine
  • Dry mouth, lips, or skin; sunken eyes
  • Flushed face
  • Irritability
  • Blurred vision
  • Itchiness
  • Vaginal thrush in women and, occasionally, pubic thrush in men
  • Loss of sexual desire in women
  • Impotence in men

It’s important to note that symptoms can vary, especially in older people, where signs may be misread as part of the ageing process. Extra care is needed to manage diabetes in older adults.

Advice from the Trilogy Care clinical team

Trilogy Care’s clinical team offers the following tips for care recipients living with diabetes:

  • Maintain a healthy diet – Avoid excessive carbohydrates and sugar. You can use your Home Care Package funding to consult a dietitian
  • Participate in physical activities – Incorporate regular aerobic and strength exercises to improve glucose regulation and maintain a healthy BMI. Physio sessions can be funded through your Home Care Package
  • Have regular health checks – Visit your GP every 3-6 months to create a chronic disease management plan
  • Check blood glucose levels regularly
  • Manage medication carefully
  • Conduct regular foot checks
  • Involve allied health professionals – Work with diabetes educators, dietitians, physios, and podiatrists as part of a multidisciplinary care team

Managing diabetes with Trilogy Care

Trilogy Care has extensive experience supporting care recipients living with diabetes. Our clinical team is always available to assist with escalating health concerns, while our care partners provide tailored advice and support.

To learn how Trilogy Care can help improve your well-being and quality of life, call us on 1300 459 190 or contact us here.

Support at Home – how will it impact your care?

support at home

As the new Support at Home program approaches, it’s natural to feel uncertain about how these changes will affect the support you receive through your Home Care Package. However, Support at Home is designed to enhance the care experience for individuals receiving home care.

What is changing with Support at Home?

In a previous article, we outlined some of the changes coming with the transition to Support at Home. Now that more information is available, we can provide further details.

Unspent funds

As you may know, existing care recipients will transition to Support at Home on 1 November 2025. Your Support at Home package will match your current funding level.

But what happens to any unspent funds you’ve accumulated?

You will retain any unspent funds accrued under your Home Care Package. These funds can continue to be used for ongoing services or as part of the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme, which is designed for home improvements.

How is the income tested care fee changing?

If you currently pay an income tested care fee, it’s important to know how the changes will affect your payments.

You will still be required to pay a contribution, but this will be at an individualised discounted rate to ensure that you do not pay more than you currently do under the Home Care Package.

If you currently do not pay an income tested care fee, you won’t be required to pay additional fees under the new system. This ensures that no one is financially disadvantaged by the transition.

Can I still self-manage?

Yes, self-management will still be available under Support at Home. Current Home Care Package recipients can continue to manage their own care and support through Trilogy Care.

What do the new funding classifications mean?

Support at Home will introduce eight classifications for ongoing services, replacing the four Home Care Package levels. Each classification comes with a budget for participants to access services.

Here are the classifications and their approximate funding levels (these figures are yet to be finalised):

ClassificationQuarterly budgetAnnual amount
1~$2,750~$11,000
2~$4,000~$16,000
3~$5,500~$22,000
4~$7,500~$30,000
5~$10,000~$40,000
6~$12,000~$48,000
7~$14,500 ~$58,000
8~$19,500~$78,000

What if I was already receiving funding?

If you’re currently receiving Home Care Package funding, you’ll transition to the following amounts:

Transitioned home care recipientsQuarterly budgetAnnual amount
1$2,708$10,833
2$4,762$19,049
3$10,365$41,460
4$15,713$62,853

What is the AT-HM Scheme and how does it impact my funds?

Support at Home will also introduce the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme, which gives care recipients access to assistive technology and home modifications without needing to save funds from their individual budgets.

The proposed funding amounts are as follows:

Funding tierAmount
LowUnder $500
MediumUp to $2,000
HighUp to $15,000

This scheme will allow you to receive more care hours without sacrificing essential technology or home modifications.

When will more information about Support at Home be available?

As the launch of Support at Home draws closer, more information will be shared.

We are committed to keeping you informed and providing updates so that you feel confident about the new system. In the meantime, you can learn more by visiting this this link.

If you require Home Care now, please give us a call on 1300 459 190 or contact us online.

What community services are available to older Australians?

what community services are available

There are many community services available for older Australians. These are typically free and allow you to engage with government and community-run programs to enhance your lifestyle and wellbeing. For those on a Home Care Package, community services may assist with items and tasks that are not covered by the package funding.

What are community services?

Community services come in many forms, often as group activities run by volunteers or people passionate about supporting aged care. These groups might meet once a week for coffee, a walk, or just a chat. While the activities may be simple, they offer valuable opportunities for social interaction with people of a similar age.

One great example is the Rockhampton 60 and Better Program, where the group meets on the first Wednesday of each month for coffee and on the second Monday for lunch. These meet-ups provide older people with the chance to connect and have meaningful conversations.

Regular social interaction like this can play a vital role in preventing feelings of isolation and loneliness, which is particularly important for older people.

Who provides community services?

Community services can be delivered by individuals or organisations that want to provide their time and effort to improve the wellbeing of others. Local governments may also provide community services based on their location.

Government services

Local governments offer a range of community services that help older Australians access programs to enhance their quality of life. These services may include:

  • Immunisation clinics – Councils often offer free vaccinations, particularly to those who are vulnerable
  • Cab services – Councils offer cab services to people who find it challenging to complete essential tasks, such as grocery shopping or accessing medical appointments. If you live in Brisbane for example, you can check if you are eligible for this service here
  • Events and activities – Councils often run programs such as classes, social outings, or even award nights for older residents
  • Pension concessions – Certain councils offer discounted rates for pensioners
  • Bin collection service – Councils can arrange in-home bin collection services if you’re unable to manage it yourself

Volunteer services

Many community services are provided by volunteers, often coordinated by organisations dedicated to providing care services. These services can include any assistance that older Australians require, including:

  • Gardening
  • Household maintenance
  • Social visits
  • Administration tasks
  • Running classes or courses
  • Helping in respite care
  • Assisting in residential aged care

How can I connect with community services?

Accessing community services varies depending on where you live. We recommend visiting your local council’s website to explore the services available. For instance, Brisbane City Council’s community support page lists all the services offered in their area.

Additionally, you can use sites such as My Community Directory or Our Community to find organisations that can provide you with services you need. You may also wish to read our article on the aged care volunteer scheme for more information.

If you would like to get involved with volunteering or providing community support, there are websites such as Seek Volunteer that can connect you to relevant services.

If you need more assistance, please contact us via our website, or call 1300 459 190.

Support at Home - How will it change aged care at home?

The Home Care Package program will be replaced by the Support at Home program from 1 November 2025. As part of the aged care reforms, all Home Care Package recipients will be transitioned to this new system. The Support at Home 2025 program has been developed to enable more funding, provide a higher quality of care, and improve the overall system as Australia’s population continues to age and aged care at home becomes more important.

No Worse Off Principle

To ensure all Home Care Package recipients continue to receive the funding they need, the “No worse off” principle has been introduced. This ensures that your funding will not be reduced during the transition to the Support at Home 2025 program.

Moving to Support at Home

The introduction of the Support at Home program allows individuals with a Home Care Package to maintain their funding level and keep any unspent funds. This ensures that no care recipient will lose the care they need under the new system.

The “No worse off principle” will apply to contributions arrangements for people who, as of 12 September 2024, were either receiving a Home Care Package, on the National Priority System, or assessed as eligible for a package. These participants will not face higher contributions compared to what they would have paid under the Home Care Package arrangements.

What else is changing?

The Support at Home 2025 system is being reformed to improve the delivery of care and funding within aged care at home. Some key changes include:

  • Faster access to funding, reducing waiting times
  • Expanded classification system, now with ten categories, providing more funding options for care recipients
  • Defined services list, offering greater transparency about what the Support at Home program covers
  • Capped price system to prevent aged care recipients from being overcharged, allowing more care hours and assistance

Independence at home

The Support at Home system places a strong emphasis on independence. Clients managing aged care at home will have immediate access to assistive technology and home modifications through the new Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme. This separate funding scheme means that care recipients no longer need to save their package funds for these supports.

The AT-HM scheme will cover prescriptions, item purchases, delivery, and installation. Additionally, extra funding is available for restorative care and end-of-life care, with up to $25,000 provided over a 12-week period, as needed.

What are the fees?

Contributions in the Support at Home 2025 system differ from the Home Care Package. The new program is designed to help keep people at home and out of hospital. Services are divided into three categories: clinical care, independence, and everyday living.

  • Clinical care (e.g., nursing and physiotherapy): Fully funded by the government across the aged care system to help keep care recipients healthy and active
  • Independence services (e.g., personal care): Moderately funded, reflecting their importance in maintaining independence
  • Everyday living services (e.g., cleaning and gardening): Attract higher contribution rates, as these are not typically covered by government funding

Fees will depend on your funding level and personal circumstances (whether you are a full pensioner, part pensioner, or self-funded retiree). However, under the no worse off principle, current Home Care Package recipients will not pay more when they move to the Support at Home program.

When do the changes take effect?

The Support at Home system will take effect from 1 November 2025. This allows time for care recipients, carers, service providers, and My Aged Care to prepare for the transition to the new aged care at home program.

While the system is changing, it is expected that recipients will receive more comprehensive, high-quality care under Support at Home. These reforms aim to enhance the level of support available to you at home.

For more information, visit the Department of Health’s website or sign up for the online webinar.

How to resolve your Trilogy Care complaints

complaints escalate

At Trilogy Care, we’re committed to delivering the best support possible as your Home Care Package provider. We understand that issues can occasionally arise, and when they do, we take them seriously, working quickly to resolve them.

How we handle complaints

When we receive a complaint, we immediately begin working on a resolution. Our management team investigates the issue to identify any factors that contributed to the problem, ensuring we address any organisational improvements required.

Resolving your concerns

If you have a concern, the best way to start is by contacting your Care Partner directly. They are ready to listen and provide solutions to most issues. If your Care Partner can’t resolve the concern, they can help you escalate it further.

How to escalate a complaint

If your concern hasn’t been resolved, you can submit a complaint through our online feedback form. This is the most effective way for us to review your issue in detail and provide a tailored solution. If you’re unable to lodge the complaint yourself, your Care Partner can assist.

For further guidance, refer to our aged care complaint guide. We’re here to support you throughout the process.

What happens next?

Once you submit a formal complaint, you’ll receive a confirmation from us. We’ll respond with a detailed plan of action within 28 days, outlining the steps we’re taking to resolve your concerns. If further clarification is needed, you’ll have the opportunity to respond, and we’ll continue working with you until the matter is resolved.

Additional support

If your issue requires more than a discussion, you can bring in additional parties, such as family members or third-party organisations, to help resolve it. If you’re not satisfied with the outcome, we recommend contacting an independent advocacy service like OPAN, which provides free support for older Australians.

Trilogy Care can help

For the fastest resolution, we recommend starting with a conversation. Call your Care Partner or reach out to our team at 1300 459 190 to discuss your concerns. Often, a quick conversation can resolve an issue before the need for formal complaints.

You can also contact us through our website by filling out the contact form here. Our team will promptly review your message and work with you to find a solution. We encourage you to reach out—most issues can be resolved quickly with a direct conversation.

Let us work with you to ensure your care experience remains positive and supportive.

Events for seniors – How to get involved

events for seniors seniors events

Community and social events play a vital role in the lives of older Australians, especially for those living alone. Engaging with others and participating in activities can greatly enhance your wellbeing. Whether it’s a small, interactive gathering or a larger event filled with valuable information and activities, there’s something for everyone.

What events are available?

There are a wide variety of events that cater to different interests and health needs, such as:

  • Health and activity sessions – Join classes that promote fitness and wellbeing through light exercise and other activities
  • Educational classes – Learn new skills, such as computer and internet basics, to stay connected and engaged
  • Senior centres – Participate in a variety of activities, from language lessons to yoga, board games, art, and more
  • Community parties – Local councils often host events for older Australians, such as Christmas celebrations
  • Expos – Find out more about the aged care services available to you and other helpful resources

How to find events

Each state and territory promotes upcoming events for older people in its own way. Depending on where you live, event details can be found on your state government’s website or through services like Eventbrite.

Here are some helpful links:

StateCarer Gateway Provider
QueenslandSeniors event calendar
New South WalesSeniors festival
VictoriaSeniors festival
Western AustraliaSeniors events
South AustraliaSeniors events
TasmaniaActivities in your area
Northern TerritorySeniors event calendar
Australia Capital TerritorySeniors activities

Other avenues such as  COTA (Council on the Ageing), local council pages, or Eventbrite also provide event options.

Using COTA

COTA is a government-funded organisation that advocates for older Australians. It also offers a comprehensive list of events tailored specifically to seniors. Each state has its own COTA website, allowing you to view events relevant to your location.

To learn more, visit COTA and select your state to explore upcoming events.

Seniors month festivals

Several states celebrate Seniors Month with special festivals. From October 1 to 31, Queensland and Victoria host senior festivals, while Tasmania celebrates Seniors Week from October 14 to 20. South Australia also marks its Week of Ageing Well from October 1 to 7.

These festivals offer a range of activities, including concerts, guided tours, film festivals, communal lunches, and workshops. Whether you’re exploring new interests or just want to enjoy a day out, these events have something for everyone.

Attending events

If you receive a Home Care Package, you may be eligible for assistance in finding and attending senior events. If transportation is an issue, contact your care partner to discuss available options. Alternatively, you can reach out to service providers like Careseekers to arrange transport.

Want to know more about how Trilogy Care can help connect you with community events? Call our team on 1300 459 190 or contact us here. You can also explore our lifestyle blogs for more event details and tips.

Carer Gateway – support for carers

Carer Gateway

Carers are a crucial part of the aged care system. Without them, it would be impossible to provide the support needed by care recipients nationwide.

However, it is important to remember that carers are people too and should also have access to the support they need. Working in the aged care industry can be a rewarding experience but also one that is mentally and emotionally draining. This makes it vital that support workers are able to access resources that assist them in receiving the support they need.

To this end, many useful services have been created and implemented for carers. These include Carer Gateway and Wellways, initiatives designed to provide support for carers.

What is Carer Gateway?

Carer Gateway is a free government service that provides assistance to carers. A wide range of services are available, depending on each support worker’s specific needs. Carer Gateway is available for all support workers, regardless of age or support type.

Whether you’re looking to improve your skills as a carer or access emotional support, Carer Gateway is a service worth investigating.

How can Carer Gateway help?

Carer Gateway understands that support work can be a challenging task. In order to assist care providers, Carer Gateway has worked to establish several free services.   These include:

  • Support groups – Carer Gateway can connect you to in-person or online peer support groups, where you can discuss problems, achievements, and goals with similar people
  • Counselling – If you are experiencing negative emotions as a result of your support work, Carer Gateway can connect you with in-person or phone counselling sessions
  • Coaching – Carer Gateway can put you in touch with professional coaches who can help you improve your care skills, create plans and goals for support, and discuss your experiences
  • Respite services – Should you find yourself in a scenario wherein you cannot provide support work (such as an injury), Carer Gateway offers emergency respite. Their team will organize temporary care while you are unavailable
  • Support Packages – Carer Gateway can help you organise additional support, such as transportation or respite
  • Skill Courses – A number of courses have been created to assist with your support work

Each of these services can be accessed independently whenever required. In the event you are feeling overwhelmed, or you get sick or injured, Carer Gateway can connect you with the resources you need to organisation continued support for your care recipient.

Even the best support workers can fall ill or become burned out. In the aged care space, it is crucial to have reliable backups in place should you be unavailable to assist a care recipient. Carer Gateway is your go-to resource for planning future respite and additional care options.

Available service providers

Each state has different organisations in place to provide Carer Gateway services. Below is a list of the service providers in each state:

StateCarer Gateway Provider
QueenslandWellways
New South WalesWellways
The Benevolent Society
Carers NSW
Live Better
VictoriaMerri Health Community Services
Western AustraliaCarers WA
South AustraliaCarers SA
TasmaniaCare2Serve
Northern TerritoryCarers NT
Australia Capital TerritoryCarers ACT

Each organisation is responsible for delivering support services to care workers in its region, preventing any one organisation from being overloaded with requests for assistance.  It also means that services can be provided from local resources.

The organisations selected to pair with Carer Gateway have been selected due to their exemplary care records. Furthermore, each of these organisations is either a government run entity or a not-for-profit, meaning your needs will always be prioritised.

Emergency assistance

One of the most critical features of Carer Gateway is the emergency assistance that is offered. While emergencies are always unexpected, having a plan in place can help to prevent the worst outcomes.

Carer Gateway has tools available to assist you with emergency planning.

Using Carer Gateway

To access Carer Gateway, call 1800 422 737 between 8 AM and 5 PM, Monday through Friday. A staff member will then walk you through the registration process.

You can also request the Carer Gateway team contact you by completing this form.

Alternatively, you can visit the Carer Gateway website to learn more.

Trilogy Care can help

Trilogy Care understands that support work can be challenging work. Carer Gateway is one resource available to you as a carer whenever you need support.

Additionally, Trilogy Care has many resources available to support you. Our website contains a number of helpful blogs and articles. We have also created a FAQs page for common inquiries we receive.

Alternatively, you can contact us at any time on 1800 214 794 or visit our website to contact us.

Aged care volunteers - what is the ACVVS Volunteer Scheme?

Aged Care Volunteers ACVVS Volunteers Scheme

As of the 1st of July 2023, The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) replaced the Community Visitors Scheme (CVS). The ACVVS aims to provide a free resource for older Australians, particularly those at risk of being socially isolated, that connects them with volunteers.

 

Sourcing volunteers

Should you sign up to receive a volunteer, the ACVVS will help to pair you with a like-minded volunteer. You and your volunteer will have the opportunity to spend time together, chatting and doing various activities.

Volunteers are matched with care recipients who would benefit from their interaction. For example, a care recipient who prefers to speak French would be paired with a volunteer who can also speak French. In this way, the ACVVS allows you to match with a volunteer who is aligned to your cultural or linguistic background, or who has interests similar to yours.

Unfortunately, older Australians can feel isolated for a variety of reasons, and the ACVVS program allows you to connect with volunteers who can help you reconnect with your culture, heritage, or community.

In addition to providing a social experience, your ACVVS volunteers can help you engage in your favourite activities, prevent you from feeling lonely, and allow you to discuss your feelings and concerns.

Why use the ACVVS?

Studies have shown that the ACVVS positively contributes to the lives of Australians with a Home Care Package on both a mental and emotional level. Regular social interaction, particularly with a trusted volunteer, can help you feel a sense of belonging, reduce feelings of isolation, and prevent stress.

The Department of Health and Aged Care currently funds more than 140 community organisations that provide trained volunteers for social experiences with older people. Volunteers are sourced from aged care services providers and health professionals, but family and friends are also encouraged to participate. This means that there is a large number of volunteers for you to be paired with, based on what you’d like to achieve from the program.

Aged care providers’ role

Aged care providers have an essential role in the ACVVS. With direct access to care recipients, it is crucial for aged care providers to inform you of the ACVVS, and your ability to access beneficial volunteer services.

In addition, aged care providers must:

  • Refer eligible care recipients to ACVVS (particularly those from a diverse background)
  • Remain in communication with the ACVVS volunteer manager should circumstances change with the care recipient

Providers should also be aware that:

  • ACVVS volunteers should be considered similarly to visiting friends or family members, including visiting hours on weekends and after 5pm on weekdays
  • Do not need to complete a service agreement between the ACVVS organisation and the Home Care Package provider

Your care provider will always work to ensure that you are matched with a volunteer who will help enrich your life and achieve your goals.

ACVVS volunteers’ role

  • Volunteers are essential to the ACVVS; without their assistance, the scheme would be unsuccessful. Importantly, volunteers must attend at least 20 visits a year with the same care recipient to ensure a strong relationship is developing.

ACVVS volunteers should also be aware that they must:

  • Complete a national police check
  • Work within their ACVVS organisation’s rules and policies (not the Home Care Package provider)
  • Are not to access a care recipient’s personal or care records
  • Continue to work with the same care recipient

Volunteers are available to spend time with you; whether you want to play a card game, go for a walk, or just chat.

ACVVS volunteer managers’ role

ACVVS volunteer managers, or Auspice Coordinators, are the link between Home Care Package Providers and ACVVS volunteers. They play a vital role within the scheme, and their key tasks are to:

  • Recruit, train, and provide support for volunteers
  • Increase awareness of the ACVVS
  • Maintain an open line of communication between the ACVVS organisation and Home Care Package Providers they work with
  • Work to resolve any issues or concerns raised by volunteers, care providers or care recipients
  • Ensure volunteers are matched with an appropriate older person

Volunteer managers ensure that your ACVVS experience is always running smoothly. If you ever experience a problem with a volunteer, your volunteer manager is the person to speak to.

Accessing the service

The ACVVS is an important service that provides much-needed social care to older Australians who have a Home Care Package. If, at any time, you feel isolated or lonely, organising a friendly volunteer is only a phone call away.

The scheme is a great opportunity for you to connect with similar people and make new friends.

For more information on the ACVVS, visit this site or contact your Home Care Package Provider.

If you think you or someone you know may benefit from an ACVVS volunteer, visit this site or register to volunteer here.

Links by State:

New South Wales, Victoria, and the ACT

Queensland

South Australia

Western Australia

Tasmania

Northern Territory