Navigating the middle ground: What hybrid clients can expect under Support at Home
Help to navigate Support at Home as a hybrid client.
As the aged care system evolves, not every client fits neatly into the categories of 'grandfathered' or 'new'. Many older Australians and their families find themselves in a transitional space.
Hybrid clients are individuals who were approved for, or entered the Home Care Package program after 12 September 2024 but before the Support at Home program officially begins on 1 November 2025.
Hybrid clients will move into the new system with a unique set of rules:
- Their care will continue under the new framework.
- Their contribution arrangements will shift to reflect updated funding structures.
Here’s what that looks like for three different types of hybrid clients.
Full Pensioner: Affordable contributions, clear expectations
Hybrid full pensioners transitioning into Support at Home will benefit from continuation of your current funding level and low contribution rates, making the shift easier for both clients and their families.
Case Study: Jack, 85, lives in a secondary dwelling in the backyard of his son's property in Cairns. He began receiving a Home Care Package in October 2024 and behan reciving a Level 2 Home Care Package in February 2025. While not grandfathered, Jack isn’t a brand-new client either, placing him in the hybrid category.
As a full pensioner, Jack will:
- Receive clinical services (like wound care) fully funded.
- Contribute 5% towards the cost of independence services (like transport to the local Men’s Shed).
- Contribute 17.5% towards the cost of everyday living services (like gutter cleaning and minor home repairs).
Jack won’t need a new means assessment as his pension status automatically sets his contribution level. With support from integratedliving, Jack will receive a refreshed care plan and client agreement, ensuring everything remains aligned with his needs.
Part Pensioner: Fair contributions based on current circumstances
Hybrid part pensioners will transition into the new model with predictable contributions based on existing financial data, offering peace of mind for clients and their families.
Case Study: Leila, 76, lives in Port Macquarie and was approved for a Level 3 package in November 2024. She receives a part pension and draws income from her superannuation.
As a hybrid client, Leila will:
- Have her contribution rate determined by Service Australia based on the data they already hold.
- Pay means tested contributions for services in the independence and everyday living categories.
- Continue receiving services like in-home physiotherapy, remedial massage, taxi vouchers and support with household tasks.
Leila’s contributions will remain fair, clearly set and predictable, giving her and her family confidence in her ongoing care.
Self-Funded Retiree: Structured contributions, no surprises
Hybrid self-funded retirees will enter the new system with structured contributions and full transparency, ensuring continuity without unexpected costs.
Case Study: John, 80, lives in Hervey Bay and began receiving a Level 4 package in October 2024. He pays the full income-tested care fee.
Under Support at Home, John will:
- Have his contribution rate determined by Service Australia based on the data they already hold.
- Receive uninterrupted care, including complex clinical support for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), General Practitioner (GP) appointment assistance, group respite and home-delivered meals.
integratedliving will review John’s care plan to ensure services remain aligned with his assessed needs. While not grandfathered, John enters the new system with clarity and confidence.
Every hybrid client’s situation is unique and so is our approach. Whether you're a full pensioner, part pensioner or a self-funded retiree, our team at integratedliving is ready to guide you through the Support at Home transition.
From clarifying your contribution arrangements to updating your care plan, we’ll work hard to ensure your experience is smooth, transparent and tailored to your needs. Call us on 1300 782 896 to speak with our friendly team about your Support at Home transition.