A Home Care Package (HCP) is a vital part of Australia’s aged care system, designed to help older Australians live independently in their own homes for as long as possible. Funded by the Australian Government, these packages offer a range of services – from personal care and nursing to domestic assistance, transport, and more complex clinical care. Whether you’re a senior exploring your options or a family member supporting a loved one, understanding how to apply for a Home Care Package is the first step in securing quality, personalised care at home.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through:
- What a Home Care Package is
- Who is eligible
- The application process
- What to expect during an ACAT assessment
- Navigating the National Priority System
- Choosing the right provider
- Budgeting and managing care costs
- Common myths and frequently asked questions
What is a Home Care Package?
A Home Care Package (HCP) is a government-subsidised program that provides coordinated services to help older Australians live independently at home. Unlike one-off services, a Home Care Package is tailored to your needs, goals, and preferences over time. This approach means that care can grow and evolve as your circumstances change.
Services covered may include:
- Personal care (bathing, hygiene and grooming)
- Help with shopping and errands
- Meals and food preparation
- Home or garden maintenance
- Cleaning, laundry and household chores
- Nursing
- Allied health support (podiatry, physiotherapy, and other therapies)
- Transport and social activities (social outings, groups and visitors)
- Help with impairments of continence
- Equipment and minor home modifications
Each package is designed to support both physical and emotional wellbeing, ensuring senior Australians can live safely and comfortably in their own homes.
Understanding the Four Levels of Home Care Packages
There are four levels of Home Care Packages, based on the complexity of care required:
Package Level | Care Needs | Yearly Government Subsidy (approx.) |
Level 1 | Basic care needs | $10,698 |
Level 2 | Low-level care needs | $18,812 |
Level 3 | Intermediate care needs | $40,945 |
Level 4 | High-level care needs | $62,075 |
The level you receive is determined by an assessment carried out by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). It’s important to understand that while subsidies cover a significant portion of care, you may also be required to make a contribution depending on your financial situation.
Step-by-Step: Applying for a Home Care Package
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
You may be eligible for a Home Care Package if you:
- Are aged 65 or older (or 50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples)
- Are finding it difficult to manage daily tasks at home
- Have increasing health or mobility concerns
You can check your eligibility by visiting My Aged Care or by calling 1800 200 422. This initial contact will help determine whether you require a formal assessment.
Step 2: Registering with My Aged Care
Once your eligibility is confirmed, you’ll need to register with My Aged Care, the government’s gateway to aged care services. During this process:
- You’ll be asked questions about your health, home situation, and care needs
- You may nominate a trusted person (family member, friend, or advocate) to act on your behalf
After registration, you’ll be referred for an ACAT assessment.
Understanding the ACAT Assessment
An Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) conducts a detailed, in-person evaluation to determine what level of care you need. This is a crucial step in the application process.
During the ACAT assessment, the assessor will:
- Discuss your daily routines and challenges
- Evaluate your physical and mental health
- Explore any existing support networks
- Consider your personal preferences and goals
You can have a family member or carer present at the assessment, which can take place at your home, in a hospital, or at another convenient location.
Prepare for your assessment by having:
- Your Medicare card and photo ID
- A list of current medications and medical conditions
- Recent hospital discharge summaries, if relevant
- A notebook with questions or concerns you’d like to raise
After the assessment, you’ll receive a letter outlining your eligibility and the recommended care level.
Step 3: Joining the National Priority System (NPS)
If you’re approved for a Home Care Package, you’ll be placed on the National Priority System—a national waitlist. Your position is determined by the urgency of your needs and the date of your assessment.
While waiting, you can:
- Access short-term or entry-level support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
- Begin researching providers in your area
- Gather financial documents for a potential income assessment
You will receive a letter from My Aged Care when your package is assigned. This includes your Referral Code, which is used to activate your package with a provider.
Step 4: Selecting a Home Care Provider
Choosing a provider is a personal decision that can shape your aged care experience. Look for a provider who:
- Understands your cultural, language, and personal values
- Offers a wide range of flexible services
- Clearly outlines fees and inclusions
- Communicates openly and with empathy
At Cura Aged Care, we work closely with you and your family to design care solutions that align with your lifestyle and preferences. We also offer a culturally aware and multilingual team.
Use the My Aged Care Service Finder to compare providers near you.
Step 5: Creating Your Care Plan
Once you’ve chosen your provider, you’ll work together to design a personalised Care Plan and budget. Your care plan includes:
- Agreed goals and desired outcomes
- Frequency and type of services
- Risk assessments and emergency contacts
- Budgeting for services and support
Transparency is key—your provider should explain all costs and help you make informed choices.
Understanding Fees and Contributions
The Australian Government subsidises Home Care Packages, but there may still be out-of-pocket costs depending on your income.
There are three potential fees:
- Basic Daily Fee – Charged by some providers, currently capped at $12.53/day.
- Income-Tested Care Fee – Calculated by Services Australia; may apply to pensioners with additional income.
- Additional Service Fees – For services beyond the standard care package.
For a full picture of your potential contributions, request a formal income assessment from Services Australia.
How Cura Aged Care Supports You
At Cura Aged Care, we simplify the entire process. From initial contact to ongoing care coordination, we provide:
- Support with registration and assessment preparation
- Guidance through the National Priority System
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Personalised service planning
- Bilingual staff and culturally sensitive care
Whether you’re navigating the system for the first time or switching from another provider, our team walks beside you every step of the way.
Tips for Family Members and Carers
Supporting a loved one through the Home Care Package process? Here’s how you can help:
- Attend appointments and assessments
- Help gather and organise medical paperwork
- Provide emotional support and encouragement
- Research and compare providers
- Advocate for their preferences and care goals
Your involvement can greatly improve the experience and outcomes for your loved one.
Common Myths About Home Care Packages
Myth: Home Care Packages are only for people with major health issues.
Truth: Many people with basic needs can access lower-level packages for help with housework, transport, or meal prep.
Myth: It’s too hard to navigate the system.
Truth: With the right support, including guidance from providers like Cura Aged Care, the process becomes manageable and empowering.
Myth: I’ll lose my independence.
Truth: Home Care Packages are designed to help you maintain independence in your own home—not take it away.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to get a Home Care Package?
A: Wait times vary, but it can take between 3–12 months, depending on urgency and availability.
Q: Can I change providers?
A: Yes, you are free to change providers at any time without losing your package.
Q: What if my care needs increase?
A: You can request a reassessment to move to a higher care level as your needs change.
Looking Ahead: Support at Home Program – July 2025 Transition
It is important to note that from 1 July 2025, the Australian Government is planning to transition the current Home Care Package (HCP) program to a new aged care program called Support at Home.
This new program will replace the HCP structure and aims to streamline in-home aged care services to better meet the needs of older Australians.
If you are already approved for a Home Care Package or have applied for one before this date, you will be supported to transition across to the new Support at Home program in a seamless and supportive way. You will not lose your access to care or funding during this changeover.
As this program is new to every aged care provider—and the Australian Government is still finalising the finer details—more information will become available over the coming months.
At Cura, we are committed to keeping our valued clients and their families fully informed. As we receive updates from the government, we will share this information directly with you so you can feel confident and prepared for the transition ahead.
Ready to Begin? Let Cura Aged Care Help You Take the First Step
Applying for a Home Care Package doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a trusted provider like Cura Aged Care, you can feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or assisting a family member, our team is here to help.
Contact us today to learn more about our aged care services and how we can support your journey to quality care at home.
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