Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) extended to 2029
What older Australians need to know about the CHSP extension
The Australian Government has announced that the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will be extended until 30 June 2029 and will remain a standalone program rather than being incorporated into the Support at Home program.
For older Australians who rely on CHSP services, their families and the organisations that support them, the announcement provides welcome certainty and continuity while the future of the program is considered.
At integratedliving, we welcome the additional certainty this decision provides and recognise the important role CHSP plays in helping older people remain independent, connected and well in their own homes and communities.
A program that supports independence
CHSP is designed to provide entry-level support to older Australians who need some assistance to continue living independently at home.
At integratedliving, CHSP-funded services are part of our broader approach to helping older Australians live well at home. Our extensive service suite spans daily living support such as domestic assistance, personal care, transport and meals - along with home modifications, maintenance and repairs, clinical and allied health care, social support, respite, and wellbeing programs.
These services can help address smaller challenges before they become larger ones - supporting people to maintain their independence, wellbeing and connection to their communities.
Continuity matters
The Government's announcement means CHSP funding will continue for the next three years, with the program remaining separate from the Support at Home program.
For older people currently receiving CHSP services, this provides reassurance that the support they rely on will continue while consultation takes place about the program's longer-term future.
It’s also important for families and carers who rely on services such as transport, meals, social support and respite to help their loved ones maintain their independence.
Looking beyond 2029
The Government has indicated that consultation will begin on the longer-term future of CHSP, including the role of block funding, client contributions and early intervention services.
We see this as an important opportunity to build on what works well.
Community-based, preventative support can play a valuable role in helping older Australians maintain their health, independence and social connections. It can also provide support at an earlier point in a person's ageing journey, before more intensive services may be required.
As a provider supporting older Australians across regional and rural communities, integratedliving understands the importance of services that are accessible, practical and responsive to the communities in which people live.
We look forward to contributing to the conversation about how CHSP can continue to evolve while preserving the strengths of the program and keeping the needs and experiences of older Australians at the centre.
What does the announcement mean for you?
If you currently receive CHSP services through integratedliving, there is no immediate need to make changes because of this announcement.
CHSP remains an available pathway for eligible older Australians seeking entry-level support in their home and community. If you are considering accessing CHSP, you can speak with integratedliving about your circumstances and the services that may be available to you.
The aged care system continues to evolve and understanding how to get started with help at home can sometimes feel complicated. Our team can help you understand your options and take the next step.
Call us on 1300 782 896 and our team can explain what support may be available through CHSP and how integratedliving can help.