Big changes are coming to in-home aged care in Australia and they’re designed to make it easier for older Australians to access the support they need, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and exercise physiology.
From 1 November 2025, the government will replace the current Home Care Packages with a new model called Support at Home. This streamlined system is built to give you more control, greater flexibility, and improved access to clinical and allied health services – all from the comfort of your home.
So, What Is Support at Home?
Support at Home is a new aged care program that combines the Home Care Package (HCP) program, Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC), and (eventually) the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) into one simplified system.
For older Australians, that means one entry point, one funding stream, and more coordinated care.
For those needing rehab, mobility support, or help staying independent, it means greater access to physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and exercise physiology as part of your care.
Why This Matters for Allied Health
Whether you’re recovering from a fall, managing a chronic condition, or simply want to stay strong and mobile as you age, access to allied health is crucial. These reforms aim to:
- Make it easier to include physio, OT, or EP as part of your care plan
- Introduce Restorative and End-of-Life Pathways – new streams of funding specifically for short-term clinical support, rehab, or palliative care at home
- Offer funding for equipment and home modifications, guided by an OT or physio
- Provide clearer pathways to recovery and independence, whether you’re post-surgery or managing ongoing conditions
What Kind of Support Can You Expect?
Through the new Support at Home model, you may be eligible for:
- In-home physiotherapy to help with pain, balance, falls prevention, or post-surgery recovery
- Occupational therapy for home safety assessments, equipment prescription, and assistance with daily activities
- Exercise physiology programs to build strength, improve cardiovascular health, and boost independence
These services will be part of tailored care plans, with funding levels matched to your individual needs.
What About the Transition?
If you’re already receiving a Home Care Package, you don’t need to worry, your services will transition smoothly to Support at Home with no loss of care.
If you’re on the waitlist or receiving CHSP, changes will roll out gradually, with full integration expected by July 2027.
How We Can Help
At Leapcare, we’re here to guide you through the transition and make sure you get the most from your care:
- We work with you (and your care coordinators) to build personalised physio, OT, or EP plans based on your goals and funding
- We can assist with falls prevention, rehab, home safety, chronic condition support, and mobility
- We offer mobile, in-home visits across Sydney’s North Shore and Northern Beaches
- Our team can help explain how the new funding works and what services you may be entitled to
Need advice or support with allied health under the new system? Get in touch to find out how we can help you stay active, independent, and well at home.
