Finding Home Care Services

On February 27^th 2017, almost 80’000 Home Care Packages will change from being controlled by the provider to now being controlled by the consumer. 

This nation-wide roll-out of consumer directed Home Care Packages means that older Australians now have the option to self-manage their home care services. Home Care Package recipients will now be able to choose their own home care provider and also choose exactly what services they want and need included in their Home Care Package. 

Click here to find out more about how to access a Home Care Package. 

The aim of Home Care Packages is to assist older people remain living independently in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible, reducing the need for premature admission into residential aged care.

The number of Home Care Packages available in Australia is expected to increase to more than 100’000 by next year in accordance with the country’s ageing population.

The funding for Home Care Packages is currently managed by home care providers who assess clients and advise of the home care services available and whether those services are suitable for their care needs.

This system has caused problems over recent years, with some home care providers accused of charging exorbitant fees and clients having to re-apply for a new Home Care Package if they move to a different area.

The new consumer directed care system will allow Home Care Packages to be directly allocated to the individual client who can then choose their desired home care provider, choose the services they receive and take their Home Care Package with them if they move.

To access a Home Care Package, prospective home care clients will need to undergo an assessment. Click here to find out more about ACAT/ACAS assessments.

Once assessed, the government’s aged care department will assign a Home Care Package with the recipient then given 56 days to choose their own home care provider.

There are currently four levels of Home Care Packages (HCP):

• HCP Level 1 – basic care
• HCP Level 2 – low-level care
• HCP Level 3 – intermediate care
• HCP Level 4 – high care

Each level of Home Care Package offers clients a set amount of hours (up to an agreed dollar value) of home care per fortnight. If clients can afford to, they may be asked to contribute to the cost of their home care services. This is determined by the income test for the age pension.

This new consumer directed care system will encourage home care providers to provide better value for money and offer a wider range of services for their clients because of increased competition.

To search for home care services in your area, simply click on you state below to begin:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia

Do you need help finding an aged care home or home care services?

My Care Path can provide you with a complete end to end consultancy service to assist you in navigating the complexities of aged care and home care. Our consultants are ready to help - call today for a friendly, no-obligation chat! 

Call 1300 197 230