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Home Care Packages (HCPs) are a lifeline for older Australians, providing tailored support to help them maintain their independence and quality of life in the comfort of their own homes.
While many people know about the basics like personal care and meal preparation, HCPs go far beyond, offering an array of lesser-known yet invaluable services designed to meet unique and diverse needs.
In this article, we uncover 10 surprising benefits covered by HCPs, explore their specific inclusions, and share practical budgeting strategies to maximize your funding. From specialist cleaning to emergency technology, you’ll discover how these services can transform daily living.
Whether you're planning for yourself or supporting a loved one, this guide will help you understand how to create a cost-effective care plan that truly enhances independence and well-being.
1. Specialist Cleaning for Health and Hygiene
HCPs extend cleaning services to cover health-specific needs, particularly for individuals with medical challenges such as severe incontinence. Beyond routine housekeeping, HCPs may include:
Specialist cleaning for bedding, mattresses, and soft furnishings.
Repairs or replacements of washing machines and dryers for recipients diagnosed with permanent incontinence by a medical professional.
Unexpected Benefit:Â This targeted support ensures a safe and hygienic living environment tailored to individual health requirements.
Budgeting Tip:Â Factor in periodic specialist cleaning services to address recurring needs and prevent long-term issues.
2. Home Modifications for Safety and Accessibility
HCPs provide funding for home modifications that enhance safety, independence, and mobility. These modifications are tailored to individual needs and include:
Simple Changes:Â Installing grab rails, lever taps, ramps, and non-slip flooring.
Bathroom and Kitchen Upgrades:Â Removing shower hobs, lowering benchtops, and adding handheld shower heads.
Advanced Modifications:Â Technical advice for significant renovations like widening doorways or reconfiguring layouts for wheelchair accessibility.
Unexpected Benefit:Â Assistance with navigating local council regulations and securing approvals for major changes.
Budgeting Tip:Â Prioritise modifications that directly impact safety and functionality while working with a provider to ensure cost-effectiveness. This has been one of the most misunderstood home care package inclusions and exclusions in 2025.
3. Vision and Hearing Aids
For individuals with sensory impairments, HCPs can provide a range of assistive devices and support services:
Low-vision tools like talking clocks, video magnifiers, and reading software.
Access to hearing aids when not covered by the Hearing Services Program.
Support in connecting with state-based subsidised programs for affordable visual aids and spectacles.
Nuance:Â While devices can be funded through HCPs, co-payments for government programs cannot.
Budgeting Tip:Â Opt for durable devices with low maintenance costs to maximize long-term value.
4. Mobility Equipment: Purchase, Hire, and Repairs
HCPs support mobility through the funding of functional aids and their maintenance. Covered services include:
Purchase or rental of equipment like walkers, wheelchairs, and transfer devices.
Repairs to existing equipment to ensure continued usability.
Pathway adjustments or slip-resistant flooring to enhance safety.
Unexpected Benefit:Â Regular maintenance is included, reducing the need for expensive replacements.
Budgeting Tip:Â Schedule regular assessments of mobility aids to address wear and tear early.
5. Advanced Nutritional Support
HCPs go beyond basic meal preparation, addressing dietary and medical needs in a comprehensive manner:
Guidance on special diets, such as for diabetes or swallowing difficulties.
Provision of enteral feeding equipment and formula prescribed by medical professionals.
Accessible cooking tools like talking microwaves for individuals with vision impairments.
Budgeting Tip:Â Coordinate with healthcare providers to align dietary requirements with your package allocation.
💡 Quick Note: Home care packages are divided into 4 different levels, level 1-4. Read more about home care package levels and their details.
6. Emergency Assistance Technology
HCPs prioritise safety with access to 24/7 emergency response systems such as MePACS alarms. These technologies are vital for ensuring help is always within reach.
Unexpected Benefit:Â Some systems integrate with other assistive devices, creating a comprehensive safety network.
Budgeting Tip:Â Choose devices with long warranties and reliable service support to minimise future expenses.
7. Respite Care and Emotional Support for Carers
HCPs provide in-home respite care to relieve primary caregivers while ensuring continuity of support. Emotional assistance is also available for recipients adjusting to increased dependency.
Unique Service:Â Counseling for caregivers to help them manage stress and maintain their own well-being.
Budgeting Tip:Â Schedule respite care during critical times to prevent caregiver burnout.
8. Transport for Independence
Transportation services under HCPs go beyond medical appointments, offering support for:
Grocery shopping and personal errands.
Attending social events or community activities.
Taxi vouchers (cannot be used concurrently with state-funded transport for the same trip).
Unexpected Benefit:Â Personal assistance during outings to promote social engagement.
Budgeting Tip:Â Plan trips in advance to maximise efficiency and save on costs.
9. Allied Health and Therapy Services
HCPs fund a wide range of allied health services tailored to improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being:
Rehabilitation:Â Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and exercise physiology.
Mental Health Support:Â Social work, psychology, and counseling.
Creative Therapies:Â Music and art therapy for emotional enrichment.
Unique Service:Â Speech pathology to address communication challenges and swallowing difficulties.
Budgeting Tip:Â Work with your provider to prioritise therapies that have the most significant impact on your health and lifestyle goals.
10. Social and Leisure Activities -Â home care package 25
Staying connected to the community is vital for well-being, and HCPs offer support through:
IT equipment like tablets or smart devices (up to $500 annually, with exceptions for higher needs).
Participation in group programs, arts and crafts, or exercise classes.
Continued access to Social Support Groups under the CHSP with cost-sharing agreements.
Unexpected Benefit:Â Digital inclusion initiatives help recipients stay connected with family and friends, reducing isolation.
Budgeting Tip:Â Invest in versatile devices and prioritize activities that align with your interests and care goals.
HCP Budgeting Tips for Cost-Effective Home Care Plans
To maximise your Home Care Package, follow these actionable tips:
Assess Needs Regularly:Â Periodically review your care plan to ensure services align with changing needs.
Plan for Recurring Costs:Â Prioritise ongoing needs like specialist cleaning and mobility equipment repairs.
Leverage Subsidies:Â Explore state or federal programs for sensory aids, transport, and dietary support to supplement your package.
Work Closely with Providers:Â Engage your care provider to find cost-effective solutions and tailor your package effectively.
Final Words
Home Care Packages are designed to empower recipients with a range of tailored services that enhance safety, health, and quality of life.
By understanding the nuanced inclusions and employing smart budgeting strategies, you can unlock the full potential of your package and create a truly cost-effective home care plan. We have also compiled an inclusions and exclusions list for you.
For more insights into HCP budgeting tips and unexpected benefits, contact your provider or visit My Aged Care.
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