The Australian Government has announced major reforms to aged care, with the new ‘Support at Home’ programand a new Aged Care Acttaking effect from 1 July 2025.
With so many changes ahead, you may be wondering how this will affect you. Rest assured—atCentric support, we’re committed to keeping you informed and ensuring a smooth transition.
Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about what’s coming. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
What is the new Aged Care Act, and why is it important?
The new Aged Care Actis a rights-basedframework that prioritises quality care, accountability, and the well-being of older Australians. Key changes include:
✅ Improved aged care in Gold Coast, including care in homes, communities, and residential facilities
✅ Stronger accountabilityfor aged care providers
✅ Alignment with Royal Commission recommendations
The new Act will officially take effect on 1 July 2025. For more details, click hereto access the government fact sheet.
What is the Support at Home Program?
Launching on 1 July 2025, the Support at Home Programwill replace the current Home Care Packages (HCP)and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC)programs.
The new Support at Home Program will improve access to home aged care services, ensuring older Australians receive personalised support while staying in their homes
This program provides needs-based supportto help people remain at home longer, with services grouped into three categories:
🩺 Clinical care(e.g., nursing, physiotherapy, care management)
🛁 Independence support(e.g., personal care, showering)
🏡 Everyday living assistance(e.g., cleaning, gardening, meals)
This change is set to enhance aged care in Gold Coast, ensuring seniors receive the right support at the right time.
I am on the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). Will this change?
No changes yet! CHSP will continue until at least 2027, meaning those receiving aged care in Gold Coastthrough this program will not be immediately affected
What are the biggest changes under ‘Support at Home’?
🔹 No out-of-pocket costs for clinical care(e.g., nursing, physiotherapy)
🔹 Higher levels of care available, with increased government funding
🔹 Faster accessto in-home support, reducing waitlists
🔹 Up to $15,000 in fundingfor assistive technology & home modifications
🔹 A new End-of-Life pathway, providing up to $25,000to support those wishing to pass away at home
These changes aim to improve the overall experience of aged care in Gold Coast, ensuring more individuals receive the care they need without long delays.
How will my contribution be calculated?
The government will fully fund clinical care, while contributions for other services will be means-tested.
| Category | Clinical Care | Independence Support (e.g. personal care) | Everyday Living Support (e.g. cleaning, gardening) |
| Full pensioner | 0% | 5% | 17.5% |
| Part pensioner | 0% | 5-50% (means-tested) | 17.5-80% (means-tested) |
| Self-funded retiree (with a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card) | 0% | 5-50% (means-tested) | 17.5-80% (means-tested) |
| Self-funded retiree (without a Seniors Health Card) | 0% | 50% | 80% |
There is also a $130,000 lifetime capon contributions across both home and residential care.
Will I need to be reassessed under Support at Home?
🔹 If you’re already on a Home Care Package before 1 July 2025, you’ll transition automaticallywithout reassessment.
🔹 If you were approved before 12 September 2024, your contribution won’t increaseunder the ‘no worse off’ principle.
🔹 If you need more care in the future, a new assessment will be required.
How does the Support at Home Program’s budget work?
The program introduces eight levels of ongoing support(instead of the current four Home Care Package levels).
| Level | Quarterly Budget | Annual Budget |
| 1 | $2,750 | $11,000 |
| 2 | $4,000 | $16,000 |
| 3 | $5,500 | $20,000 |
| 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 |
You can roll over up to $1,000 or 10% of your budgetinto the next quarter for additional care needs.
Will I lose my unspent Home Care Package funds?
No! Your unspent funds will carry overbut must be used within the Support at Home program’s guidelines.
Contact us to learn more about how to use your funds effectively for aged care in Gold Coast.
What about self-managing my Support at Home package?
If you self-manage with a provider a percentage of your classification fundingwill be allocated to care management, covering:
✔ Service coordination
✔ Regular check-ins
✔ Clinical advice
Self-management remains an option, providing flexibility for those seeking aged care in Gold Coasttailored to their needs
Will providers still charge a package management fee?
No. Under Support at Home, providers cannot charge separate package management fees—these costs are included within service pricing.
Will there be price caps on services?
The government will introduce price caps from 1 July 2026. Until then, providers set their own prices, with oversight from the Department.
What about residential aged care?
Key changes include:
🏠 New means-tested contributionsfor new residents (indexed twice a year)
💰 Increase in maximum room pricefrom $550,000 to $750,000(indexed)
🏦 Partial retention of refundable accommodation depositsby providers
These updates aim to improve aged care in Gold Coast, enhancing residential facilities and service quality
What happens next?
➡ If you’re already on a Home Care Package: You’ll automatically transition to Support at Homein July 2025
➡ If you’re not yet on a Home Care Package: You don’t have to wait! Check your eligibility nowand explore available support.
➡ If you live in residential aged care: The new contribution system applies only to new residents from 1 July 2025.
Got more questions? We’re here to help! Reach out anytime to discuss what these changes mean for you and explore our aged care support servicesto find the right care plan for your needs
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Big Changes Are Coming to Aged Care!
From 1 July 2025, Australia’s aged care system is getting a major upgrade with the new Support at Home programand an updated Aged Care Act. These changes are designed to put YOU first, offering better support, increased funding, and a more streamlined experience.
But what does this mean for you or your loved ones?
We’ve put together a simple guide answering all your key questions—covering funding, assessments, home care, and residential care.
📖 Read the full FAQ and stay informed👉(insert Link to blog)
At Centric Support, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Got questions? Give us a call on0438934770—we’re always happy to help!