As we age, staying independent and living at home becomes a priority for many Australians. Home Care Packages are designed to make this possible by providing tailored support to meet individual needs. However, understanding what these packages include – and what they don’t – is essential to ensure they work effectively for you or your loved one.

What Are Home Care Packages?

Home Care Packages are government-subsidised programs that offer older Australians access to a variety of services. These services are designed to help with everyday tasks, improve wellbeing, and maintain independence. Whether it’s assistance with personal care, transport to appointments, or health services, Home Care Packages provide a way to continue living comfortably at home while receiving the support you need.

Why Understanding Inclusions and Exclusions Matters

When choosing a Home Care Package, knowing the inclusions and exclusions is vital. It helps you make informed decisions, plan effectively, and avoid surprises. Such examples are items that would usually be paid for with general income, such as household bills, other basic living expenses and insurances. food (unless it is part of enteral feeding needs) permanent accommodation costs, such as mortgage payments or rent. By understanding these details, you can customise the package to meet your exact needs and make the most of the funding available.

 

Inclusions in Home Care Packages

What’s Included in a Home Care Package?

Home Care Packages are designed to cover a broad range of services that enhance daily living and wellbeing. Below are some of the key inclusions:

Personal Care Services

These services focus on helping with everyday activities that maintain dignity and independence, including:

  • Showering, bathing, and grooming.
  • Assistance with dressing and toileting.
  • Management of skin integrity
  • Continence management
  • Assistance with meal preparation
  • Mobility support to help with movement around the home.

Household Assistance

Maintaining a clean and safe home is an important part of independent living. Your package may include:

  • General cleaning, such as vacuuming and dusting.
  • Laundry services, including washing and ironing.
  • Gardening or light outdoor maintenance.

Health and Wellbeing Support

A range of health services is available to support overall wellbeing, including:

  • Physiotherapy, podiatry, or occupational therapy.
  • Nursing care for medication management or wound care.
  • Support for mental wellbeing, such as counselling or social activities.

Transport and Social Support

Staying active and connected is essential for quality of life. Inclusions often cover:

  • Transport to medical appointments, social events, or shopping.
  • Companionship during activities to reduce isolation.
  • Social support group

Transport Aids and Equipment

  • Video conferencing and digital technology
  • Assistive technology for mobility and personal safety

These inclusions ensure that Home Care Packages provide both practical support and a better quality of life for older Australians.

 

Carer helping elderly man with Inclusions and exclusions in home care packages

Exclusions in Home Care Packages

What’s Excluded from Home Care Packages?

While Home Care Packages offer extensive support, there are certain items and services that are not included. Knowing these exclusions can help you plan for additional costs or resources.

Medical Equipment and Supplies

Some medical equipment and consumables are not covered by Home Care Packages. This is generally because they can be covered by the Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) or Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and are classified as already funded. Examples include:

  • Medications
  • Services from doctors and other healthcare professionals
  • Preventative services such as screening and vaccinations

Home Renovations and Repairs

Major home modifications and repairs are typically excluded. For instance:

  • Renovating bathrooms or kitchens 
  • Repairs to fix plumbing, roofing, or structural issues.

However, modifications that are clinically justified circumstances may be considered if they meet the following criteria:

  • Improve safety and accessibility and promote independence 
  • Have been assessed by a health professional to ensure it is fit for purpose.
  • Have been agreed within the care plan

Daily Living Expenses

Living costs remain the individual’s responsibility and are not part of a Home Care Package. These expenses include:

  • Groceries, rent, or mortgage payments.
  • Utility bills such as electricity, water, or internet.
  • Entertainment costs, such as outings, subscriptions, or memberships.
  • Travel or accommodation for holidays

By understanding these exclusions, you can plan ahead to ensure all your needs are met, either through additional funding or other services.

You can find further information on the inclusions and exclusions here.

 

Next Steps to Receiving Home Care Package Services

How to apply for Home Care Package Funding

To receive home care services from a Home Care Package you require an assessment to determine eligibility. There are 3 different ways you can apply for an aged care assessment:

  1. Online: to apply online visit https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment/apply-online
  2. Telephone: Call the My Aged Care Contact Centre 1800 200 422
  3. In Person: Visit any Services Australia service centre. In some locations you can book an appointment by calling 1800 227 475 in advance.

You may also find this helpful: When to Consider Aged Care Options For Your Loved One

Following the initial assessment the following steps will occur:

  • Outcome: You will receive a letter with the outcome of the assessment. This will include the decision regarding your eligibility to receive the funding for a home care package and the level of home care package deemed to meet your care needs. At this stage you will be placed on the National Priority system to wait for the package to be assigned to you.
  • Find a Home Care Provider: Following receipt of the letter you should commence your search for a home care provider that can best service your needs. You can find these providers at the following link https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/find-a-provider/
  • Assigned a Home Care Package: When a Home Care Package becomes available you will receive a letter to inform you what level package has been assigned and a unique Referral Code that you give to your chosen provider to activate your package.
  • Enter into Home Care Agreement: Your chosen Home Care Provider will provide you with an agreement which outlines the terms and agreement of how your services will be provided, who will provide them and how much they will cost.

Next Steps: Get Expert Guidance

Navigating Home Care Packages can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Care Match Solutions is here to guide you through every step of the process.

  • Book a Consultation: Speak with our aged care care consultant for personalised advice.
  • Access Helpful Resources: Use our tools and guides to understand all aspects of Home Care Packages.
  • Start Today: Contact Care Match Solutions to begin creating a care plan tailored to your needs.

With the right support and guidance, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your Home Care Package will provide everything you need to live independently and confidently at home.