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Support at Home – Will You Pay More?

By Michelle Hardy
Published Dec 2, 2024

The new Support at Home system will be implemented on 1st July 2025, bringing changes to the way means testing works. For some people, this will result in higher contributions toward their care and support. However, others may find they pay less.

How Will It Affect You?

The impact depends on several factors:

  1. Whether you receive a full pension, part pension, or are a self-funded retiree.
  2. The type of care and support you receive.
  3. Whether you have an approved Home Care Package (HCP) prior to 12th September 2024.

General Payment Principles:

  • The more clinical and independence-focused services you use, the less you’ll pay.
  • You only contribute toward the specific services you use.
  • The Support at Home program combines multiple existing home care funding programs, so the changes in cost will vary:
    • Compared to a Home Care Package, self-funded retirees will pay slightly less, while those on a full pension may pay a little more.
    • Compared to the Commonwealth Home Support Program, self-funded retirees may pay more, while full pensioners will pay about the same on average.

Contribution Breakdown:

Your care is divided into three categories, each with different contribution requirements:

  1. Clinical Support (e.g., nursing, allied health): Fully subsidised by the government. You pay nothing, regardless of your means.
  2. Independence Services (e.g., personal care, medication assistance, transport, social support): You contribute between 5% and 50% of the service cost, depending on your means.
  3. Everyday Living Services (e.g., cleaning, meals, gardening): You contribute between 17.5% and 80% of the service cost, depending on your means.

Special Consideration for Pre-Approved HCPs:

If you had an approved Home Care Package before 12th September 2024, you will qualify for different rates due to the “no worse off” clause, ensuring a smoother transition into the new system.

Key Takeaways:

  • Just like today, what you pay will depend on your financial means and the level of assistance you need.
  • People on a full pension will pay a similar amount to those currently on the Commonwealth Home Support Program.
  • Self-funded retirees are generally better off under the new system.
  • Thoughtful planning around the services you choose can help you optimise support without overpaying.

Will You Pay More? Ultimately, it depends on your circumstances and the mix of services you use. By understanding the new system and choosing your services wisely, you can make the most of Support at Home while keeping your costs manageable. Give us a call if you’d like to know more.