Support at Home Program Delayed: What You Need to Know

If you’re one of the many older Australians or carers eagerly waiting for the new Support at Home program to begin, there's been an important update. The Australian Government has announced that the program, which will replace the current Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care programs, will now commence on 1 November 2025, rather than 1 July 2025.

This extra time is intended to help make the transition smoother for everyone, providing providers, clients, and caregivers with more time to prepare for the changes.

When Is It Happening Now?

The new start date for the Support at Home program is 1 November 2025. This shift aligns with the introduction of the new Aged Care Act, aiming to ensure a coordinated, cohesive, and manageable rollout for all involved.



Why the Delay?

Many aged care providers and advocacy groups expressed concern that they needed more time to prepare for the changes. The Government responded by extending the timeline to:

• Upgrade systems and train aged care staff
• Finalise new service agreements and pricing structures
• Help older Australians and their carers better understand their rights and responsibilities

Aged Care Minister Sam Rae said the delay is about making sure the system is fully prepared to deliver safe, high-quality care.

What Happens to Current Home Care Packages?

Until the new program begins:

• Your current Home Care Package will continue as usual until 31 October 2025
• If you’re on the waitlist, your place in the current system will be maintained
• Services such as cleaning, transport, personal care, and nursing will remain in place with no disruptions



What Does This Mean for You?

For CHSP Clients

If you’re currently receiving services through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and your needs have changed, this delay may especially impact you. Many older Australians who were once supported well by entry-level services now require more comprehensive care. Still, with the government slowing the release of new Home Care Packages, your options may feel limited.

This delay may be frustrating, but it also offers a window to:

• Learn more about how Support at Home will work
• Understand your future entitlements and responsibilities
• Prepare with your provider for the eventual transition

The good news is that your current CHSP-funded services, such as domestic assistance, transport, and social support, will continue without interruption. Stay in touch with your provider, ask questions, and ensure you're prepared for the November rollout.

For Those Awaiting a Home Care Package

If you’re not on CHSP but have been assessed and approved for a Home Care Package, you’re likely experiencing delays too. Reports indicate the government is slowing the release of new packages to focus on the upcoming transition to Support at Home. With over 80,000 Australians currently on the waitlist, wait times, especially for higher-level packages, remain long.

A group of federal MPs is urging the government to release at least 20,000 additional care packages immediately to reduce pressure on those waiting. For people who aren’t receiving CHSP but need more support at home, this delay can feel like being stuck in limbo, assessed and approved, but still without the services you need.

In the meantime:

• Stay in regular contact with your My Aged Care assessor or provider
• Ask about interim supports that may be available
• Keep an eye on updates from the Department of Health and Aged Care and advocacy groups



What Providers Are Doing

Aged care providers like FOCUS Connect are using this time to:

• Train teams and implement new technology systems
• Finalise documents and service models aligned with Support at Home
• Communicate clearly and regularly with clients and families

We’re committed to using this extra time to deliver better, more tailored support when the new program goes live.

What Should You Do Next?

If you're receiving services or helping care for someone who is:

• Keep in touch with your current provider and ask questions if you're unsure about anything
• Stay informed, attend any information sessions, or read up on the changes
• Rest assured that your support will continue while we all prepare for this next step



A Positive Step Forward

Yes, it’s a delay, but it’s one that many in the sector believe is the right move. This extra time gives everyone the chance to be truly ready. It means a safer, more reliable rollout of the Support at Home program, which is designed to meet the needs of older Australians.

At FOCUS Connect, we're committed to walking this journey with you. As a Macarthur and Northern Sydney Suburbs Support At Home Provider, we’ll keep sharing updates and supporting you through every step. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.



Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the new launch in November!