In Short
- Home Care Packages provide government-subsidised support to help older Australians remain independent at home, offering services tailored to individual care plans.
- Services include personal care, nursing, allied health, home modifications, domestic assistance, transport, and social support to maintain well-being and community connection.
- From 1 July 2025, the Support at Home Program will replace Home Care Packages, aiming to streamline services and enhance consumer choice.
Tips for Businesses
Review and update your service offerings to align with upcoming reforms. Ensure care plans are personalised and clearly documented. Stay informed about regulatory changes to maintain compliance and deliver high-quality care.
In Australia, the ageing population is on the rise, and with it comes an increasing demand for personalised and flexible care options. Home Care Packages offer a crucial solution, allowing older Australians to receive the care they need while maintaining independence within the comfort of their own homes. Home Care Packages are Australian-government subsidised programs that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each recipient, promoting autonomy and enhancing their overall quality of life.
As an aged care provider, you might feel overwhelmed by the range of services available under a Home Care Package. This article outlines key services provided under a Home Care Package and addresses the upcoming reforms to in-home aged care.
Care Plans
Each care recipient will have an individualised care plan that outlines the daily services they will receive under a home care package. The care plan will detail these services provided to the care recipient.
In addition, the care plan may include:
- goals, needs and preferences of the care recipient;
- who will provide the services, including any third-party services;
- when the services will be provided, such as frequency, days and times;
- care management arrangements;
- the care recipient’s involvement in managing and coordinating their services; and
- how often will you do formal reassessments of the care plan.
Care and Services under a Home Care Package
Home Care Packages offer three main types of services to older Australians:
- services to keep them well and independent;
- services to keep them safe in their home; and
- services to keep them connected to their community.
Here’s a closer look at each category.
Services to Keep Older Australians Well and Independent
Under a Home Care Package, older Australians are able to receive a broad range of services that help them stay well and independent.
As a care provider, you can offer various personal care services depending on the care recipient’s individual needs. This includes assistance with daily living activities such as:
- mobility support;
- aid in maintaining personal hygiene; and
- medical management, such as monitoring and administering medications and keeping track of prescription schedules.
Nursing services are also commonly available to care recipients, including:
- general clinical nursing;
- health monitoring; and
- assistance with medical equipment.
Depending on the care recipient’s condition and level of support required, you may also offer allied health and therapy services. These can include:
- physiotherapy with tailored exercise programs;
- mobility and balance therapy;
- occupational therapy;
- speech therapy; or
- psychology services.
Additionally, some care recipients may need help with meal preparation and diet to support their health, nutrition, and any medical conditions.
Services to Keep Older Australians Safe in Their Home
Home Care Packages allow for services to help keep older Australians safe and comfortable in their home as they age and require assistance.
Many Home Care Package recipients require assistance with day-to-day domestic activities, such as household cleaning and general home maintenance.
A care recipient may also require minor home modifications to help them stay safe in their home. This could include adaptations for safety, including the installation of handrails and ramps.
Depending on individual needs, recipients may receive access to and support with goods, equipment, or assistive technology.
A care recipient may also receive respite care, which is a temporary relief for the care recipient and their carer. This provides carers with a break and supports the continuity of quality care.
Services to Keep Older Australians Connected to Their Community
Community is also essential to well-being. Home Care Packages include services to keep older Australians connected to their community.
These services include:
- transport assistance: mobility assistance, transportation to any appointments, and escort services for shopping, errands and other outings; and
- social support services: assistance with social outings, companionship and emotional support to help clients stay engaged in the community.
Upcoming Reforms
From 1 July 2025, the Home Care Package will be replaced by the Support at Home program. The reforms are in response to the key issues raised by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. They aim to:
- improve access to services, equipment and home modifications to help older people remain safe, healthy, active and connected to communities;
- give consumers greater choice and control over their services; and
- provide fair and transparent fees.
This factsheet will outline the six key requirements you need to meet to become an approved aged care provider in Australia. These requirements are set by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
Key Takeaways
Home care and aged care providers in Australia offer a range of care and support services tailored to meet the specific needs outlined in care plans for care recipients. It is crucial for you to grasp the scope of services you offer and your exact obligations under each care plan. Understanding this not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also enhances the quality of care you deliver.
If you need assistance with compliance as an aged care provider, our experienced aged care lawyers can assist as part of our LegalVision membership. For a low monthly fee, you will have unlimited access to lawyers to answer your questions and draft and review your documents. Call us today on 1300 544 755 or visit our membership page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Home Care Packages encompass services that help older Australians stay well and independent, remain safe at home, and stay connected to their community. These services include personal care, nursing, allied health support, home modifications, and social activities, all tailored to individual needs through a personalised care plan.
Each care recipient receives a personalised care plan detailing their specific services, goals, and preferences. The plan outlines service providers, schedules, care management arrangements, and reassessment timelines, ensuring that care remains aligned with the recipient’s evolving needs and promotes their autonomy and well-being.
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