Starting fresh: What new clients can expect under Support at Home
What new clients can expect under Support at Home
From 1 November 2025, all new aged-care clients will be assessed and once approved, will enter directly into the Support at Home program. This new program introduces structured service categories, transparent budgets and tiered client contributions based on financial circumstances. Participants will pay contributions determined through an assessment of their income and assets by Services Australia, ensuring that support is both equitable and aligned with individual means.
For older Australians and their families, understanding what these upcoming changes mean is key to planning aged care with confidence, whether you're just starting out or exploring future options. The Support at Home program is designed to offer clear information, structured support and cost transparency that empowers older Australians to make informed choices about their care.
Let’s explore how the system works for three types of new clients: self-funded retirees, part pensioners and full pensioners.
Full Pensioner: Affordable and safe care
Full pensioners will be placed in the lowest contribution tier. This ensures that essential services remain affordable and accessible, especially for those who may be navigating aged care for the first time.
Case Study: Aunty Marlene, 64, lives in a rental flat in Grafton close to her community. After experiencing health challenges, she accessed the new First Nations assessment pathway, a culturally safe process introduced in July 2025. This pathway helped her complete an aged-care assessment and secure approval for services under Support at Home.
As a full pensioner, Aunty Marlene will:
- Receive fully funded clinical services with no out-of-pocket costs.
- Pay 5% towards the cost of independence services.
- Pay 17.5% towards the cost of everyday living services.
She won’t need to submit financial paperwork because her pension details are already held by Services Australia. With support from integratedliving, Aunty Marlene will receive a tailored care plan, regular financial statements and quarterly budgeting. Her aged-care journey begins with clarity, reassurance and strong community support.
Part Pensioner: Fair contributions and flexible planning
Part pensioners will be placed in a moderate contribution tier. Their fees will be determined by Services Australia using information they already hold, ensuring fairness and transparency without requiring additional paperwork.
Case Study: Brian, 82, lives in Ballina with his son. After noticing a decline in his ability to manage daily tasks, Brian applied for aged care funding and was approved for services under Support at Home.
As a part pensioner, Brian will:
- Receive fully funded clinical services with no out-of-pocket costs.
- Make contributions towards his independence and everyday living services.
- Have his contribution rate determined by Service Australia based on the data they already hold.
With support from integratedliving, Brian will receive regular statements showing his budget usage, services received and contributions made. With predictable costs and flexible support, Brian can feel confident about maintaining his independence.
Self-Funded Retiree: Structured contributions and full visibility
Self-funded retirees will be placed in the highest contribution tier under the Support at Home program. This means their contribution toward independence and everyday living services will exceed that of part or full pensioners.
Case Study: Lynette, 77, lives in Coffs Harbour and manages her expenses through superannuation and investments. After noticing a decline in mobility, she applied for in-home support and was approved under the new program for weekly physiotherapy sessions, a mobility aid and minor home modifications such as grab rails and a ramp.
As a self-funded retiree, Lynette will:
- Receive fully funded clinical services with no out-of-pocket costs.
- Pay higher contributions for contributions towards his independence and everyday living services such as personal care and household tasks.
- Have her contribution rate determined by Service Australia based on the data they already hold.
With support from integratedliving, Lynette will receive a tailored care plan, quarterly budget allocations and regular financial statements. She enters aged care with clear insight and trust in the supports tailored to her needs.
Support at Home: A pathway with clear support all the way
For new clients entering aged care after 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program offers a structured, transparent and inclusive approach. Whether you're a full pensioner, part pensioner or self-funded retiree, the system is designed to ensure you or your loved one can access the right support with clarity and confidence.
Whether you're exploring aged care for the first time or already receiving support through another provider, we're here to help. With decades of experience and a specialist home care package team ready to guide you, integratedliving offers local, personalised in-home care that supports you now and as your needs change over time. As the aged care system continues to evolve, our professional team will be with you every step of the way through the transition to Support at Home - your care, your way, every day.
If you're exploring aged care options and want clear, up-to-date information about how the Support at Home program works, call us on 1300 782 896 - we're here to help you understand your choices with confidence.