The Australian Government is launching the new Support at Home program on 1 November 2025, replacing the existing Home Care Package (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs. If you are currently receiving support through a Home Care Package—or waiting to start—this transition may raise a few questions. As such, we have outlined the key details about what it means to be ‘grandfathered’ into the new system.
What does ‘grandfathering’ mean?
Put simply, ‘grandfathering’ means if you are already part of the Home Care Package program, you will continue receiving the same level of care and funding—even as the new Support at Home program is rolled out.
If by 12 September 2024, you:
- Are currently receiving a Home Care Package,
- Are listed on the National Priority System, or
- Have been assessed and approved for a package,
you will be automatically moved into the new program without needing to reapply or change your funding level. This ensures your services continue without interruption or added stress. It is the Government’s way of ensuring current clients can easily transition with these new reforms.
Will I have to pay more for care?
No. One of the key protections of ‘grandfathering’ is you will not be financially disadvantaged under the new system. For full pensioners who were on a Home Care Package as of 12 September 2024, there will be no required contributions towards their funded services. This aligns with current arrangements, where full pensioners are not required to pay income-tested care fees.
Part-pensioners and self-funded retirees who have been grandfathered into the new program will have a different contribution arrangement but will not be worse off than they are now. Additionally, the lifetime contribution cap ($82,018.15) will be maintained for these clients.
And yes—KompleteCare will continue to manage your budget responsibly, ensuring you receive the highest quality of care for your specific needs.
What will change under Support at Home?
While your care will not be disrupted, there will be some changes in how services are structured and delivered. This includes:
- Budgets will now be issued quarterly, rather than annually.
- New service arrangements will need to be completed to align with the updated program.
- You will gain access to the new Support at Home service list, which may include new options tailored to your needs.
If you are receiving a service that falls outside the new guidelines, we will work with you to explore alternative solutions, whether that is through other support networks or private arrangements.
The most important thing to be aware of is KompleteCare will handle all of this in partnership with you, ensuring the transition is smooth, transparent, and tailored to your unique care plan.
What happens to my unspent funds?
If you have unspent funds in your current Home Care Package, they will not disappear. These funds will be carried over into the Support at Home program and can be used for:
- Additional support if your needs temporarily increase,
- Approved services already on your care plan, as well as
- Aids, equipment, or home modifications you have been assessed as needing—such as a walker, shower chair, or handrails.
These funds do not expire, and you can use them for as long as you are receiving care through the Support at Home program. Any purchases must align with your care plan and assessed needs, and we will help ensure everything is documented and approved properly.
Will I need to be reassessed?
Not immediately. ‘Grandfathered’ clients will continue their current funding level and can access services from the Support at Home list that align with their existing care plan.
Over time, if your needs increase, you may undergo a reassessment. If that happens, you will be placed into one of the new Support at Home funding levels. Importantly, you will still retain your ‘grandfathered’ status, which protects your contribution arrangements and ensures your funding is not negatively impacted.
How KompleteCare will support you
We know any system change can feel daunting—but you will not be going through this alone. At KompleteCare, we will ensure to:
- Review your current care plan and update it where needed to match the new service list.
- Help you understand your quarterly budget and how to use it effectively.
- Work with you to finalise a new service arrangement that reflects your ongoing support.
- Be available to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer personal support every step of the way.
Your comfort, safety, and independence remains our top priority.
The introduction of Support at Home marks a significant shift in Australia’s aged care landscape, but for our valued clients, it is designed to offer stability—not uncertainty. Whether you are a long-time member of the KompleteCare family, or new to at-home care, our team is ready to help you understand what this change means for you. We are committed to walking this journey with you—because quality care should never be compromised by red tape.
If you are feeling unsure about these upcoming changes, give our friendly team a call on (08) 8265 5696 or fill out an enquiry form via our website.
*All information provided is sourced from the Australia Government and is correct at the time of publication. Information may change until the Support at Home program commences on November 1st, 2025.