Navigating the aged care system can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options is the first step toward getting the right support. This guide provides an overview of Home Care Packages (HCP), eligibility criteria, and how to get started with aged care services.

What is a Home Care Package (HCP)?

A Home Care Package (HCP) is government-funded support designed to help older Australians remain independent in their own homes. It provides a set amount of funding that can be used for various services, such as cleaning, gardening, personal care, and social support.

Levels of Support

There are four levels of Home Care Packages, each offering a different amount of funding based on a person’s needs:

Level 1: Basic care needs (e.g., occasional help with cleaning and shopping)
Level 2: Low-level care needs (e.g., regular assistance with home maintenance and transport)
Level 3: Intermediate care needs (e.g., frequent personal care, meal preparation, and medical support)
Level 4: High-level care needs (e.g., comprehensive support, including nursing care)

Who is Eligible for a Home Care Package?

You may be eligible for an HCP if you are:

✅ An older Australian who needs support to stay at home safely

✅ A younger person with a disability or condition that impacts daily living

✅ Experiencing difficulty managing household tasks, personal care, or mobility

Eligibility is determined through an Aged Care Assessment (ACAT), which evaluates your needs and assigns the appropriate package level.

How Do I Apply for a Home Care Package?

Applying for an HCP involves several key steps:

1️⃣ Register with My Aged Care – Call 1800 200 422 or visit www.myagedcare.gov.au to start the process.

2️⃣ Complete an ACAT Assessment – A trained assessor will visit you to discuss your needs.

3️⃣ Receive an Approval Letter – If eligible, you’ll be assigned a package level.

4️⃣ Find a Home Care Provider – Once a package becomes available, you can choose a provider like Sistability (in partnership with Trilogy Care) to manage your services.

📌 Need help? Care Compass can guide you through the application process!

What Can a Home Care Package Be Used For?

Home Care Packages offer flexible support, including:

✅ Cleaning and household tasks
✅ Gardening and home maintenance
✅ Meal preparation and cooking
✅ Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
✅ Transport to appointments and shopping
✅ Social support and companionship
✅ Assistive equipment and minor home modifications

⛔ HCP funds cannot be used for rent, mortgage payments, holidays, or groceries.

Self-Managed vs. Guided Support

Once you receive a Home Care Package, you’ll need to decide how to manage your funds:

🔹 Self-Managed – You handle service bookings and budgeting yourself.

🔹 Guided Support – A care coordinator (like Care Compass) helps manage your services for an 11% fee.

📌 Not sure which is right for you? Book a Discovery Session with Care Compass to explore your options!

How Long Does It Take to Get an HCP?

After your ACAT assessment, you may wait 3–12 months for a package to become available. While waiting, you can:

✅ Access private support services through Care Compass
✅ Apply for entry-level support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)

How Care Compass Can Help

At Care Compass, we make navigating aged care simple by:

✅ Assisting with the application and assessment process
✅ Helping you choose the right care management option
✅ Coordinating services to ensure you get the best support

📞 Want expert guidance? Book a Discovery Session today!

Aged Care Basics: A Guide to Home Care Support