The new Support at Home Program, set to replace the existing Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs from 1 July 2025, aims to simplify and enhance in-home care services for older Australians. Here are the detailed changes and key aspects of the new program, including the funding model:

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Key Changes in the Support at Home Program

1. Consolidation of Services: The program will merge the current Home Care Packages, Short-Term Restorative Care, and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) (transitioning no earlier than 1 July 2027) into a single, streamlined system. This consolidation aims to reduce administrative complexity and improve accessibility for users by providing a single point of entry to in-home aged care services​(Aged Care Services)​(DeptHealthAgedCare).
2. Individualised Support Plans: The program will feature more personalised support plans tailored to the individual needs of older Australians, allowing for greater flexibility in service delivery. This will include a wide range of services such as personal care, domestic assistance, transport, and social support, alongside access to equipment and home modifications that can help individuals maintain their independence at home​ (Aged Care Services).
3. Introduction of a New Funding Model: The Support at Home program will employ a new funding model designed to better align payments with the actual costs of delivering care. This model will provide funding based on the assessed needs of each individual, rather than a set package level as in the current system. This approach aims to ensure that funding is distributed more equitably and based on the real needs of care recipients​ (Aged Care Online).
4. Single Assessment System: A new Single Assessment System will be implemented to streamline the process of determining eligibility and service needs. This system will replace multiple assessment processes currently in place, making it easier for older Australians to access the right care services promptly​ (DeptHealthAgedCare).
5. Greater Emphasis on Technology and Digital Solutions: The program will incorporate modern digital infrastructure to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of service delivery. This includes investments in digital tools that support care planning, monitoring, and communication between providers, clients, and families​ (Australian Ageing Agenda).
6. Focus on Thin Markets: The program includes targeted support for regions with limited access to aged care services, such as rural, remote, and Indigenous communities. This will be achieved through specific funding allocations to build, extend, or upgrade aged care facilities and services in these areas​ (DeptHealthAgedCare).

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Funding Model

• Needs-Based Funding: The new funding model will allocate resources based on the assessed care needs of each individual, rather than fixed package levels.     This means that funding will be more closely tied to the actual cost of services required to meet the needs of the elderly person, providing a more accurate and fair distribution of resources​ (Aged Care Online).
• Grant Opportunities and Capital Investments: The government will continue to offer grants through programs like the Aged Care Capital Assistance Program (ACCAP) to support the infrastructure needs of aged care providers. This funding is intended to help maintain or improve access to quality aged care services, especially in under-served areas​(DeptHealthAgedCare).
• Ongoing Financial Support: The program will be supported by significant financial investments, including $174.5 million over two years for ICT infrastructure to implement the new Support at Home Program, ensuring the system is equipped to handle the transition smoothly ​(Australian Ageing Agenda).
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Overall, the Support at Home Program represents a comprehensive reform designed to make in-home aged care services more accessible, equitable, and adaptable to the diverse needs of older Australians. For more information, you can visit the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

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