Eligibility Checklist for Home Care Packages

Manjil Munankarmi
11 minutes ago
5 min read

As we grow older, living independently at home can become more challenging. The Australian Government offers Home Care Packages (HCPs) to support older Australians in maintaining their independence and quality of life at home. If you're wondering whether you or a loved one might qualify for this kind of support, you're not alone.

A study conducted by Australian Ageing Agenda involving 10,000 Australians revealed that nearly 80% of people aged 50 and above prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older, rather than transitioning to residential aged care. This finding underscores the critical role of home care in helping older Australians retain their independence and continue living in a familiar environment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through who is eligible, how to apply, what’s included (and not included) in Home Care Packages.

1. What Is a Home Care Package?

A Home Care Package is a government-subsidised program designed to help older Australians access coordinated care services while continuing to live in their own homes. Services are delivered by approved providers and tailored to individual care needs.

There are four package levels, ranging from basic care needs (Level 1) to high-level, complex care (Level 4).

2. Who Qualifies for a Home Care Package?

Eligibility is based on age, care needs, health status, and residency. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Age Requirement

Most people qualify from the age of 65 or older.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples may qualify from age 50, due to higher risks of early health decline.

2. Assessment of Care Needs

You may be eligible if you require support in three or more areas of daily life, such as:

Personal care (e.g. showering, dressing)
Nursing Care
Domestic Cleaning
Transportation

3. Health and Mobility

The Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will also consider:

Ongoing health conditions (e.g. diabetes, arthritis).
Reduced mobility or risk of falls.
Recent hospital stays or surgery.
Cognitive decline, memory loss, or early dementia.

4. Residency Status

To access a Home Care Package, you must be:

An Australian citizen or permanent resident.
In some cases, certain visa holders may qualify if they meet specific long-term residency conditions.

3. How to Apply for a Home Care Package: Step-by-Step

Applying for a Home Care Package involves a few key steps. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here’s how the process works:

Step 1: Register with My Aged Care

Call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au
Share details about your age, living situation, and health to get started.

Step 2: Complete the ACAT Assessment

My Aged Care will schedule a free, in-home visit from the Aged Care Assessment Team.
They’ll assess your care needs and determine the appropriate package level (1 to 4).

Step 3: Wait for Package Assignment

After approval, you’ll be placed on the national waitlist.
Wait times vary, but people with urgent or high care needs may be prioritised.
You may receive short-term help through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) while waiting.

Step 4: Choose a Provider

When your package is assigned, you’ll receive a Referral Code.
Use this to compare and select a government-approved provider.
At my companionship, we can help you compare options and make the right choice.

Step 5: Finalise Your Care Plan

You and your chosen provider will develop a personalised care plan.
This outlines the services you’ll receive and how your budget will be spent.
Services begin once your Home Care Agreement is signed.

4. What’s Included in a Home Care Package and What’s Not?

Each Home Care Package level provides a set amount of annual funding to cover a wide range of services, including:

Services That Can Be Covered:

While Home Care Packages cover many types of support, there are a few exclusions. These funds cannot be used for:

Everyday living expenses like rent or groceries.
Medical procedures (e.g. surgery, hospital stays)
Items already covered by Medicare or PBS.
Travel, entertainment, or club memberships.
Paying off debts or mortgage repayments.
Costs unrelated to your care or wellbeing.

5. How Long Is the Wait?

The wait time for a Home Care Package can vary:

Some people may wait 6-12 months after approval.
Higher priority cases (based on ACAT assessment) may receive packages sooner.
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) services can offer interim support during the waiting period.

6. Not Eligible Yet? Here’s What You Can Do

If you’re not approved for a Home Care Package:

You may still qualify for entry-level help through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
You can reapply later if your circumstances change.
Private in-home care options are also available through my companionship.

7. How My Companionship Can Help?

Navigating the aged care system can be confusing - but you don’t have to do it alone.

At my companionship, we help older Australians and their families:

Understand eligibility and care options.
Book and prepare for ACAT assessments.
Compare and choose the right care provider.
Get the most from their funding with tailored support.

Final Thoughts

Getting the right support at home can make all the difference in maintaining your independence, safety, and quality of life as you age. The Home Care Package program is a valuable resource for older Australians, but understanding who’s eligible and how to apply is key.

If you or a loved one needs help with everyday tasks, managing health conditions, or simply staying connected and comfortable at home, now is the time to explore your options.

FAQs

1. Can I apply for a Home Care Package on behalf of a family member?

Yes. If your loved one is unable or uncomfortable applying themselves, you can assist them through the process. Just make sure they give consent for you to speak on their behalf when registering with My Aged Care.

2. How long does it take to receive a Home Care Package after approval?

Wait times can vary depending on your care level and urgency. On average, it can take between 6 to 12 months, though those with higher needs may receive their package sooner.

3. Can I choose my own service provider once I receive a package?

Yes. You have the freedom to choose any government-approved provider. At my companionship, we help you compare providers and select the one that best fits your care preferences and budget.

4. What if my care needs change after I’ve been approved?

You can request a reassessment through My Aged Care at any time. If your needs have increased, you may be upgraded to a higher-level Home Care Package.

5. Do I need to pay anything for my Home Care Package?

Home Care Packages are subsidised by the government, but you may be asked to contribute based on your income. Pensioners often pay little to nothing, while self-funded retirees may pay an income-tested care fee.