Support at Home Sector Report
Across the Community Aged Care sector, the rollout of the Support at Home program has been met with several challenges impacting its effectiveness. These include delays in accessing approved services, confusion around the new assessment process, and concerns regarding affordability under the co‑contribution model. Further criticism has centred on reliance on algorithm‑based assessments and limited clarity during the transition phase.
Beyond the initial rollout, additional challenges have emerged, particularly relating to system capacity and access. Demand has significantly outstripped supply, with more than 130,000 people reportedly waiting for packages and many experiencing delays of eight to eleven months or longer. This has resulted in a growing backlog and, in some cases, deterioration in the health of older Australians while awaiting services.
These pressures are linked to insufficient funding and limited package availability, with industry groups warning that the number of packages released is insufficient to meet demand. Financial sustainability remains a concern for some providers due to capped care management fees, particularly when supporting high‑needs clients, raising fears that services may be reduced or providers may exit the market.
For clients, the introduction of co‑contributions and new pricing structures has impacted affordability, with reports indicating that some older Australians are struggling to afford basic support services. Complexity and transparency issues persist, with ongoing confusion among clients and families regarding pricing, billing, and the management of funding and unspent funds for grandfathered clients.
Finley Regional Care remain committed to ensuring our clients have all the relevant information relating to their Packages.
Together we will help you navigate the changes, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t not hesitate to contact us at Finley Regional Care, we will endeavour to find a solution to your enquires.
(Helen Lewis, Complete Care Coordinator)
