How can we help?
Home care services help you stay independent in your own home for longer. There are many home care products and services available. These can include things like assistance with:
- personal care
- housework and daily chores, like cooking or cleaning
- transport to appointments or shopping
- home maintenance and gardening
- respite care.
As of 1 November 2025, the Australian Government subsidises the cost of home care services through two different programs: the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and the Support at Home Program.
To find out if you are eligible for the programs, you will need to have an assessment. This will also figure out what level of care you need. Read more about the assessment process below. For more information on home care services or to find a provider near you, visit the My Aged Care website.
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
The CHSP is the entry point for most older Victorians who need some help at home but can generally manage day-to-day life.
It provides basic, individual services such as cleaning, transport, meals, and social support, and is best suited for people who need occasional or light assistance with specific tasks.
What does CHSP cost?
The Australian Government subsidises most of the cost. Providers may ask you to make a co-contribution (a fee) toward the cost of services. Hardship provisions are available for those who cannot afford to contribute. Some services, such as community transport or social groups, may be provided at no cost.
The calculation of fees and services can be quite complex. It is recommended that you seek financial advice before making a choice.
The Department of Human Services offers a free Financial Information Service in several languages which can help you understand the process. You can also call 132 300 for more information.
Support at Home
Support at Home replaced the former Home Care Package (HCP) program in November 2025. It is best suited for people with moderate to high, or complex, support needs.
Support at Home provides a care budget based on your assessed needs. Your care budget can be used to access supports from an approved provider (or providers) of your choice, including:
- Personal care and daily assistance.
- Domestic support and home maintenance.
- Allied health services, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, and more.
- Nursing and clinical care.
- Meals and nutrition support.
- Social support and community participation.
- Assistive technology and home modifications.
- Respite for carers.
A care partner or care coordinator typically works with you to develop a care plan, manage your budget, and co-ordinate your services.
What does Support at Home cost?
Your costs are based on the services you use and your financial situation. A financial hardship assistance process is available.
- Clinical supports: $0 cost for all participants, including personal care (showering), nursing and allied health.
- Independence supports: Typical contributions range from 5% of the cost of services for full pensioners to 50% of cost of service for self-funded retirees.
- Everyday living: Typical contributions range from 17.5% of cost of service for full pensioners to 80% of cost of services for self-funded retirees.
The calculation of fees and services can be quite complex. It is recommended that you seek financial advice before making a choice.
The Department of Human Services offers a free Financial Information Service in several languages which can help you understand the process. You can also call 132 300 for more information.