Understanding Assistive Technology & Home Modifications (AT-HM): A Complete Guide for Older Australians

As we age, our needs change, but that doesn’t mean giving up independence, safety, or comfort in our own homes. With the right supports in place, many older Australians can remain living at home longer, more safely, and with greater dignity.

One of the most practical and often misunderstood areas of support is Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM). Whether you're new to aged care services or already receiving a Home Care Package, this guide explains what AT-HM is, what funding is available, and how you can access it.

Assistive Technology (AT) includes any equipment or device that supports you to perform daily tasks you may find difficult due to ageing, mobility changes, or health conditions.

Home Modifications (HM) are physical changes made to your living environment to reduce risks and improve safety and independence.

These can include:

• Grab rails or ramps
  
• Walking frames, personal alarms, or mobility aids
  
• Handheld showers or raised toilet seats
  
• Slip-resistant flooring
  
• Reachers, jar openers, or other low-tech daily living supports
  
• Memory support aids or communication devices
  
  

The right AT-HM can reduce seniors falling, improve confidence, and allow older people to continue living at home longer, often delaying or avoiding the need for residential care.

Who Is Eligible for AT-HM?

AT-HM funding is available through the Support at Home Program, which includes:

• Older Australians who are assessed and approved through the My Aged Care system
  
• People receiving short-term restorative care, transition care, or on Home Care Packages (HCPs)
  
  

Importantly, people who were already on a Home Care Package before the Support at Home program started are known as "transitioned care recipients" or "grandfathered clients". They can still access AT-HM, but may need to update their support plan and go through the same process as new clients (more on this below).

What Does the Government Fund?

The government has introduced a tiered funding model for AT-HM supports, based on the risk level, cost, and clinical complexity of the item.

What’s Not Covered?

Not everything can be funded under AT-HM. The program does not cover:

• General household appliances (e.g., toasters, kettles)
  
• Personal items (e.g., shoes, clothing)
  
• Luxury or non-essential items (e.g., recliners, TVs, air fryers)
  
• Equipment that does not support an age-related functional need
  
  

Only items listed in the official AT-HM list are eligible. If you're unsure whether something is covered, FOCUS Connect can help clarify.

What About People Already Receiving a Home Care Package (Grandfathered Clients)?

If you were already on a Home Care Package before the Support at Home system was introduced, you are considered a grandfathered client. This means:

• Your existing care level and funding (Level 1–4) continues
  
• Your contribution rules remain unchanged
  
• You are still eligible for AT-HM funding — but you need to request it and follow the same assessment process as new clients
  
  

You do not automatically receive AT-HM it must be included in an updated support plan, and an occupational therapist or other qualified allied health professional must prescribe any higher-cost items.

How Do I Access AT-HM Support?

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to access AT-HM support:

Step 1: Speak with Your Provider (like FOCUS Connect)

Talk to your care coordinator or case manager about challenges you're facing and whether equipment or modifications might help.



Step 2: Assessment

Depending on the item, you may need:

• A basic assessment for low-risk supports
  
• Clinical advice or a prescription for complex/high-cost items
  
  

FOCUS Connect can arrange a referral to a trusted allied health professional if needed.

Step 3: Update Your Support Plan

The need for AT-HM must be documented in your aged care plan. This allows the funding to be accessed.

Step 4: Sourcing & Quoting

You (or your provider) must source eligible items from registered suppliers and submit quotes for approval.

Step 5: Approval and Delivery

Once approved, the item is purchased and delivered, and modifications (e.g. rails, ramps) are installed by a qualified contractor.

Why Does This Matter?

AT-HM support can:

• Reduce your risk of falls or injury
  
• Increase your confidence and comfort at home
  
• Support carers and reduce strain
  
• Help you remain independent longer
  
• Delay or prevent residential aged care entry
  
  

But many older Australians don’t realise they are eligible — or assume it’s too hard to apply. That’s why FOCUS Connect is here.

How FOCUS Connect Can Help

As a registered provider under Support at Home, we can:

• Help you understand your eligibility and the application process
  
• Arrange clinical assessments or prescriptions when needed
  
• Help update your support plan
  
• Source trusted suppliers and manage quotes
  
• Organise safe installation of approved equipment or modifications
  
  

We’re here to support older Australians — and their families — to live well, with dignity and peace of mind.

Contact us today on (02) 4627 1188
Or visit www.focusconnect.org.au

Key Takeaways

• AT-HM includes practical equipment and home modifications that help you live independently and safely at home.
  
  
• Government funding is available across three tiers — up to $15,000 or more — depending on the complexity and risk of the support.
  
  
• Even if you’re already receiving a Home Care Package, you can access AT-HM support by updating your care plan.
  
  
• As a care coordinator, FOCUS Connect can guide you through every step — from assessment to installation.