Can I Afford In-Home Aged Care? Understanding Income, Eligibility, and Community Participation Under the Support at Home Program

Not everyone applying for aged care support through My Aged Care will be eligible for subsidised services. If your needs are assessed as low, or you’re outside the qualifying age or residency criteria, you might be wondering:

“Can I still get support or stay connected to my community if I’m not eligible?”

At FOCUS Connect, we believe that every older person deserves access to support, care, and meaningful connections, whether or not they qualify for government-funded aged care. Here’s what you need to know if you’re seeking in-home assistance or looking for ways to stay socially active and independent in your community.

What Is the Support at Home Program?

The Support at Home Program is part of the federal government’s aged care reform. It will replace the current Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP) with one streamlined program designed to simplify service access and improve outcomes.

To access subsidised services, older adults must register with My Aged Care, where they may be referred for an assessment by either:

• An Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), or
  
• A Regional Assessment Service (RAS)

These assessments evaluate your care needs and help determine if you’re eligible for support.

How Does Income Affect Aged Care Access?

While the assessment determines your care needs, your income and assets influence how much you must pay.

If you’re not eligible for subsidies, you can still access aged care support on a private, fee-for-service basis.



What If I’m Not Eligible for Subsidised Aged Care?

1. Privately Funded In-Home Aged Care in Campbelltown

FOCUS Connect offers a wide range of aged care services for privately funded clients who want flexible, tailored support to stay independent at home. This may include:

• Domestic assistance
  
• Personal care
  
• Respite
  
• Transport
  
• Allied health and therapy
  
  

You do not need to go through My Aged Care to access these services privately.

2. Join Community Participation Programs

Social well-being is essential, especially as we age. FOCUS Connect offers multicultural community participation programs for seniors, not just those in a government-funded package.

These programs help you stay connected, active, and involved in your community.

Our programs include:



• Social outings and group lunches
  
• Hobby groups and cultural celebrations
  
• Gentle exercise and wellness sessions
  
• Language-specific groups and multicultural events
  
  

These activities are available throughout Campbelltown and neighbouring suburbs.

How to Get Involved

• Explore private aged care services available through FOCUS Connect
  
• Join a Community Participation Program—no referral needed
  
• Visit our website or contact us to learn more about what suits your lifestyle and support needs
  
  

We’ll help you understand your options and find the services that fit you best.

Why Choose FOCUS Connect?

As a trusted aged care provider in Campbelltown, FOCUS Connect delivers:

• Culturally responsive, person-centred care
  
• Flexible support options for all income levels
  
• A welcoming, inclusive environment for social connection
  
  

Whether on a government package or arranging services privately, call FOCUS Connect on (02) 4627 1188.  We’re here to support your independence and well-being. FOCUS Connect offers flexible in-home support and inclusive social programs for older Australians in South West Sydney and the Northern Suburbs of Sydney.