Empowering older Australians to live independently, safely, and with dignity in their own homes.
The Support at Home (SAH) program is a government-funded initiative designed to replace the Home Care Package and Short-Term Restorative Care programs starting 1 November 2025.
It offers tailored services to older people who need assistance with daily living, enabling them to remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible.
Who Is Eligible?
Support at Home services are available to:
- People aged 65 and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over
- Individuals aged 50 and over who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness
Eligibility is based on assessed care needs, including physical, mental, or social difficulties with daily activities.
How to Access the Support at Home
The program is simple and designed to ensure older Australians receive the care they need to live independently.
Step 1: Register with My Aged Care
Visit the My Aged Care website or call 1800 200 422 to begin the registration process.
Step 2: Initial Screening
A My Aged Care representative will conduct a telephone screening to understand your needs and determine the next steps. SAH
Step 3: Assessment
You’ll be scheduled for an in-person assessment using the new Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT). This helps determine your eligibility and the level of support required.
Step 4: Approval and Funding
If eligible, you’ll be approved for a Support at Home classification and receive funding aligned with your assessed needs. This includes access to:
- Care Management through a registered provider
- Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme
- Restorative Care Pathway
- End-of-Life Pathway
Step 5: Choose a Provider
You’ll select a registered aged care provider who will help develop your personalized care plan and coordinate services.
Services Provided
The Support at Home program offers a wide range of services grouped into three categories:
a. Clinical Supports
Delivered or supervised by qualified health professionals, these services help maintain or regain functional and cognitive abilities:
- Nursing care (e.g., wound care, medication management)
- Allied health services (e.g., physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dietetics)
- Therapeutic services (e.g., speech pathology, psychology)
These services are fully funded by the government.
b. Independence Services
Support for daily living activities to help individuals maintain autonomy:
- Personal care (e.g., showering, dressing)
- Medication assistance
- Transport
- Respite care
- Social support and community engagement
Participants may be asked to contribute to the cost of these services based on their means.
c. Everyday Living Supports
Practical help to keep homes safe and liveable:
- Domestic assistance (e.g., cleaning, laundry)
- Home maintenance and repairs
- Meal preparation and delivery
- Gardening
How It Works
Each participant works with a Care Partner—a staff member from the service provider—who helps develop a personalized care plan based on assessed needs, goals, and preferences. This plan is reviewed annually or more frequently if required.
Participants can adjust their mix of services at any time in consultation with their care partner.