The government makes a subsidy available to some people who need home care. Now known as Support at Home (previously Home Care Package), the amount you could receive is based on an assessment of your personal care needs and financial situation.
You can use the funding to help cover the cost of home care services, equipment and case management.
The government only releases a limited number of packages at a time, meaning that even if you’re approved, you’ll likely have to wait before using it. Waiting is never fun, but you may be offered care at a lower level, or discounted ‘bridging care’ by some providers in the interim. You could also pay for your own care until the package becomes available – some expenses may be tax deductible too.
Aged Care Assessment
To qualify for Support at Home (previously a Home Care Package) or any other government care subsidy (such as for post-hospital transitional care), you’ll first need an Aged Care Assessment. This is a simple process where health professionals ask you about your health needs. The assessment will determine whether you qualify for Support at Home, and how intensive your care needs are.
Your free assessment will be carried out by by a trained assessor; usually a nurse, social worker, or another health professional.
‘Assessment’ sounds scary. Don’t worry; it’s more of a chat over a Nescafe and a biscuit. It takes place in your home (or in hospital if you’re waiting to be discharged). Your needs, opinions and preferences are central to the assessment.
During the conversation, you will be told about home-based care options. You are welcome to have a family member or friend at the assessment.
Income and Assets Assessment
The Income and Assets Assessment form allows the government to work out what financial assistance – if any – you are entitled to.
Most Government support is means tested; you are expected to pay for your own care if you can afford to.
The assessment covers details including:
- whether you’re single or part of a couple
- whether you have any income
- what assets you have
- whether you have any debts
For most people, the income and assets assessment is done by Services Australia. However, if you receive a means tested payment from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), they will do the assessment.
Completing an income and assets assessment isn't mandatory. However, if you choose not to complete one, you can be asked to pay the maximum contribution rate.
The form: SA456 Support at Home - Calculation of your cost of care
For more detail about what income and assets will be assessed, visit MyAgedCare
If you want a friend or family member to talk to Medicare or Servies Australia on your behalf, you need to make them a ‘nominee’. You can do this online here, or by printing out and sending in this form.
Outcomes
Following the assessments, you will be sent a letter outlining:
- information about the services you’re approved to receive
- approval for any short-term support, if applicable
- the reasons and evidence supporting the assessor’s decision
- a copy of your support plan.
The letter will also explain what to do if you disagree with the assessment.
Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or go to their website to arrange your Aged Care Assessment.
Registering to receive government assistance with care costs can take up to 12 weeks, so it’s best to start the process as soon as you can.
