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.
