What the New Support at Home Program Means for You: Simplified In-Home Care Services

Starting July 2025, the Australian Government will replace existing in-home care programs with the Support at Home Program (SaHP) to streamline services and improve access to care for older Australians.

Starting from 1 July 2025, the Australian Government will introduce the Support at Home Program (SaHP), which will replace the current in-home care services, including Home Care Packages (HCP), Short Term Restorative Care (STRC), and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). This significant change aims to make it easier for older Australians to remain in their homes while accessing the care they need with more straightforward and efficient processes.

Key Benefits of the New Support at Home Program (SaHP)

The new Support at Home Program will combine all existing programs into one, eliminating the complexities of navigating multiple systems. By consolidating these programs, the Government aims to make it clearer and more flexible for older Australians to manage their care needs. This change follows recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which highlighted the need for improvements in the current system.

At present, each program has its own set of rules for assessment, eligibility, and costs, which can often be confusing. The SaHP will offer a more streamlined approach, with better tools to assess needs and manage support.

What Does This Mean for You?

By mid-2025, both the HCP and STRC programs will transition to the new SaHP, with the CHSP following no earlier than 2027. By then, all in-home care services will be under one system, meaning fewer hoops for you and your carers to jump through, making it easier to access the care you need. These changes are designed to help you live independently for longer, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing the support you need is accessible and easier to manage.

allcare is committed to keeping you informed about the new Support at Home Program (SaHP) and any necessary changes that may arise, ensuring we continue to deliver services to our clients effectively and efficiently.

If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us or your Client Engagement Manager. We're here to support you every step of the way.