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What you need to know

The Australian Government is working on changes to the aged care system to make it more respectful, higher quality and centred around the needs of older Australians.

These changes fall under a new program called Support at Home, which is designed to improve the way care is delivered for people who want to keep living independently in their own homes.

Originally, these reforms were expected to start on July 1 2025 but the government has now delayed the start date to November 1 2025.

Why the delay?

This delay gives more time for:

  • Service providers to get ready for the changes,
  • Older Australians and their families to understand what’s coming, and
  • The government to fine-tune the new system based on feedback.

Although many people in the aged care sector were looking forward to the improvements, it’s important that everything is properly prepared, so the new system runs smoothly from day one.

“Vision Australia looks forward to working with government during this extended period to resolve key issues to ensure older Australians who are blind or have low vision can access services that are important to them today, and that these will continue to be available to them in the new Support at Home program.” 

— Chris Edwards, Vision Australia General Manager of Advocacy and Corporate Affairs

What does this mean for you right now?

Until the reforms start in November:

  • The current Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), Home Care Packages (HCP), and Short-Term Restorative Care Program will continue as usual.
  • If you’re already receiving care through one of these programs, nothing will change for now.

What’s being delayed?

What will now start in November, not July is:

  • New Support at Home service agreements,
  • A new Statement of Rights for care recipients,
  • A new pricing model for services, and
  • Any other updates that were part of the reform package.

Although it’s understandable to have mixed feelings about this delay, it’s also a chance to better prepare for the future. Until November 1, the services and support you’re used to will continue just as they are.

If you have questions, your current provider can help explain what to expect, and further information will be shared as we get closer to the new start date.