Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the home care assessment process for government subsidies?

  In Australia, aged care assessments are conducted by the government’s Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) or Regional Assessment Service (RAS). These assessments are crucial in determining the level of government-funded care services an individual qualifies for, whether it be in-home support, respite care, or residential aged care. Please click here to read more.

• What are the spending options for home care packages?

  Spending options for your Home Care Package (HCP) allow you to access a variety of services designed to help you stay at home longer and improve your quality of life. Some common options include: 

  • Personal care (showering, dressing) 

  • Domestic assistance (cleaning, meal preparation) 

  • Nursing and allied health services 

  • Transport for appointments or social outings 

  • Social support and companionship
    

  These services are tailored to your needs and can help you maintain your independence. Please see the full list of the services here.

• Who is eligible for a home care package?

  In Australia, you're eligible for a Home Care Package if you're 65 or older (or 50+ for First Nations people) and need coordinated services to help you stay at home. It also applies to younger people with disabilities, dementia, or other care needs that aren’t covered by specialist services. These packages are designed to give you the extra support you need to maintain your independence and well-being at home. 

• How Home Care Package contributions work?

  If you're eligible for a Home Care Package (HCP), it comes with a couple of key components:

  Government contribution	Your contribution	Income-tested fee
  This includes the cost of services and equipment based on your care needs.	This includes any fees and possible out-of-pocket costs.	This includes contributing to your care costs, if your income exceeds certain thresholds, even if you later move into residential aged care.

• What are the different levels of HCP care needs and their daily government subsidies?

  Here's a quick overview of the available package levels and their associated government subsidies:

  Level of care needs	Daily government subsidy rate*
  Level 1 - Basic	$29.01
  Level 2 - Low	$51.02
  Level 3 - Intermediate	$111.04
  Level 4 - High	$168.33

  *Please note that the government contribution increases annually, and the figures above are accurate as of July 2024.

• What is the Support at Home program in 2024?

  The Support at Home program is a new initiative designed to streamline and enhance in-home aged care services in Australia. Starting from 1 July 2025, it will replace the existing Home Care Packages program and the Short-Term Restorative Care program. Additionally, the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will transition to this new framework no earlier than 1 July 2027. Learn more about the Aged Care Reforms in Australia.

• How much does home care cost?

  The cost of aged care is different for every individual and is determined by the Australian Government based on your financial situation. Please speak to our friendly team to determine your home care costs.

• Can self-funded retirees get a home care package?

  Yes, self-funded retirees can access a Home Care Package. However, they may be required to contribute to the cost through an 'Income Tested Fee.' The amount you need to contribute depends on your income and is determined by an assessment. Please speak to our friendly team to determine your eligibility and the fees involved.

• How will I receive my monthly statements?

  Each month, you'll receive a statement via the Catholic Healthcare app detailing the charges made against your subsidy for services and equipment used during the previous month.

  Remember, while your package covers many services, there are some things that it cannot pay for. If you have any questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out!
  
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