Been Approved for a Home Care Package? Here's What You Need to Know About Choosing Your Provider
Being approved for a Home Care Package is an exciting milestone — but it’s important to know that you’re not locked into using your existing CHSP provider. You have full choice and control over who manages your Home Care Package. In this article, we explain why some providers contact you early, what your rights are, and how Sistability can support you in making an informed, confident decision.
Join Sistability at the Ballina Seniors Expo – June 5, 2025
For many older Australians, maintaining independence at home is a top priority. But as we age, everyday tasks can become more challenging. That’s where Home Care Packages (HCPs) come in. These government-funded packages are designed to provide the right level of support so seniors can continue to live comfortably and safely in their own homes.
If you’re new to the concept of Home Care Packages, this guide will help you understand what they are, how they work, and how to apply for one. Plus, we’ll explore how a trusted provider like Sistability can help you navigate the process and make the most of the services available.
Home Care Packages: What You Need to Know
For many older Australians, maintaining independence at home is a top priority. But as we age, everyday tasks can become more challenging. That’s where Home Care Packages (HCPs) come in. These government-funded packages are designed to provide the right level of support so seniors can continue to live comfortably and safely in their own homes.
If you’re new to the concept of Home Care Packages, this guide will help you understand what they are, how they work, and how to apply for one. Plus, we’ll explore how a trusted provider like Sistability can help you navigate the process and make the most of the services available.
Preparing Your Garden for Winter: Tips for a Flourishing Yard Year-Round
Winter is a unique season in gardening—especially in regions like the North Coast of NSW where winters are mild, but still require some special attention. While your garden may not burst with flowers and greenery like it does in spring or summer, the cooler months are an ideal time to prepare for the growing season ahead. With a few simple steps, you can ensure your garden remains healthy, tidy, and ready to thrive come spring.
Cleaning for Comfort: How a Tidy Home Can Improve Well-Being
As the cooler months approach, it’s only natural to start spending more time indoors. With shorter days and crisp evenings, your home becomes the heart of warmth and relaxation. But as we retreat indoors, our living spaces often take on more wear and tear. A tidy, fresh, and clutter-free home can make all the difference in how we feel—both physically and mentally.
Understanding Upcoming Aged Care Policy Changes in Australia
In July 2025, significant changes to Australia’s aged care system are set to take effect. These reforms, anchored by the new Aged Care Act, promise to bring about a more transparent, person-centred approach to aged care. But what exactly do these changes mean for individuals and families navigating the system? Let’s break it down.
Key Components of the New Aged Care Act
The centerpiece of these reforms is the introduction of the Aged Care Act, which prioritizes the rights of older Australians and sets a new standard for care providers. Some of the most impactful changes include:
Approved for CHSP, But No One Can Help? You're Not Alone.
After months of paperwork and waiting, you/your parent is finally approved for CHSP support—only to discover that no one can actually provide the help. No cleaners available. No gardening services. No waitlist, no solutions.
It’s a story we’re hearing more and more, and it’s heartbreaking. In this post, we share what to do if you or a loved one is stuck in this exact situation—and why it's time we started talking about the gaps in our aged care system.
Celebrating International Women’s Day at the Ballina RSL
This March, Sistability proudly participated in the International Women’s Day Luncheon at the Ballina RSL—an inspiring gathering that brought together community leaders, business owners, and local residents to celebrate the achievements of women and discuss important issues surrounding gender equality. As a female-founded, locally owned business, Sistability’s mission aligns closely with these goals. We’ve always believed in empowering women, whether by providing meaningful employment opportunities, supporting mothers returning to the workforce, or creating a culture where women can thrive personally and professionally. Being part of the International Women’s Day Luncheon felt like a natural extension of our core values and a chance to share our story.
How to Create a Low-Maintenance Garden for Your Busy Life
Dreaming of a beautiful garden but don’t have the time for constant upkeep? A low-maintenance garden is the perfect solution for busy professionals and families who want a lush, inviting outdoor space without the hassle. In this post, we’ll share simple landscaping tips, easy-care plants, and smart gardening techniques that will keep your garden looking its best with minimal effort. Because your outdoor space should be a place to relax—not another chore on your to-do list!
Aged Care Basics: A Guide to Home Care Support
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.
Checklist: Signs Your Client May Need Specialised Cleaning
Many support coordinators and care managers never see the living conditions of their clients firsthand. However, certain warning signs can indicate that a client may require specialised deep cleaning to maintain a safe and healthy living environment. Use this checklist to help identify when professional intervention may be needed.
Restoring Home & Hope: Why Specialised Cleaning Matters
Struggling with a hoarding situation or a severely cluttered home can feel overwhelming—but specialised cleaning offers a lifeline. In this blog, we explore how compassionate, high-needs cleaning services tackle squalor, hoarding, and biohazards, restoring both living spaces and peace of mind. Discover why empathy is just as essential as expertise, and learn how a single deep-clean can empower individuals to reclaim their homes and their dignity.
Home Care Packages Program Data Report-2024
The latest Home Care Packages (HCP) Program Data Report highlights critical insights into aged care services from July to September 2024. With 289,582 people accessing HCPs and many others waiting for packages, the report underscores the need for interim support. Sistability bridges this gap by providing essential cleaning and gardening services, supporting both HCP recipients and private-pay clients during their wait. Learn how Sistability collaborates with aged care providers to ensure seamless care experiences.
Who's Who at Sistability: Gardeners, Cleaners, and Support Workers Explained
We are committed to ensuring our clients get the right support for their needs while maximising the value of our services. While our gardeners and cleaners are highly skilled, some tasks are often better suited for our support workers. This blog will help you understand the key differences between these roles so you can select the best option for your household.
How Support Services Help Relieve the Pressure on Family Carers
Caring for a loved one is incredibly meaningful but also demanding. Remember, you don’t have to do it all by yourself. By accessing support services, you can lighten your load and improve the quality of life for both you and your loved one.
What to Expect at your Aged Care Assessment
Getting ready for a My Aged Care assessment can feel overwhelming, but being prepared can make all the difference. Our step-by-step guide helps you gather essential documents, understand the process, and know what to expect, ensuring the assessment reflects your true needs. Read more to feel confident in your aged care journey!
Understanding Income and Means Assessments for Home Care Services
Understanding the costs associated with home care services can be confusing, especially when it comes to income and means assessments. In this guide, we break down how the Australian Government calculates fees for Home Care Packages (HCP) and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). Learn about the types of fees, income-free areas, thresholds, and caps that may affect what you pay for care services.
Sensory Gardens for Relaxation
A sensory garden can be a valuable addition to your home environment, especially as you age. Here's how incorporating fragrant plants, soothing textures, and vibrant colours can enhance your relaxation and enjoyment of the outdoors.
Understanding Self-Managed Aged Care: Key Features, Pros & Cons
Self-managed aged care packages offer the flexibility and control to tailor care services to individual needs and preferences. This blog post explores what self-management for aged care entails, its key features, pros and cons, and how Sistability supports self-managed aged care clients.
Creating a Safe and Comfortable Haven in Your Golden Years
We understand the importance of feeling safe and comfortable in the familiar surroundings of your own home, especially as you age. A well-organised and senior-friendly environment can significantly enhance your sense of independence and wellbeing. Get some tips to help you create a haven that fosters both comfort and safety in your golden years with our latest blog.