Both programs help older Australians continue living independently at home, but they are designed for different levels of support.
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Approved for CHSP
If you’ve been approved for the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), you may be wondering what support you can access, how it differs from Support at Home and what happens if your needs change.
CHSP provides entry-level support to help you remain independent at home. Understanding your approval now can help you make informed decisions about the support you need today and into the future.
- Understand your CHSP approval
- See what support may be available
- Know when to consider reassessment
CHSP or Support at Home?
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
CHSP is designed for people who are generally managing independently but need some entry-level help. You’re approved for specific services based on your assessed needs.
Support at Home
Support at Home is designed for people with more ongoing or complex care needs. You’re assigned a classification and funding to access approved services based on your individual care needs.
What Have You Been Approved For?
Your My Aged Care Notice of Decision and support plan will tell you which program and services you’ve been approved for.
1
If You Have CHSP
Your letter will identify the Commonwealth Home Support Program and outline the individual services you’ve been approved to receive. You may also receive referral codes for those services.
2
If You Have Support at Home
Your letter will state that you’ve been approved for the Support at Home program and include information about your classification, approved services and any short-term supports.
What Can CHSP Cover?
CHSP provides a smaller amount of support with everyday activities to help you continue living safely and independently at home. The services available to you depend on what was approved during your assessment.
Help at Home
Domestic assistance, meals, gardening and basic home maintenance.
Personal Support
Personal care, transport, social support and planned respite.
Health Support
Approved nursing and allied health services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and podiatry.
Home Safety
Some home adjustments and equipment to make everyday activities safer and easier.
Have Your Needs Changed?
CHSP is designed for entry-level support. If your needs have increased or your approved services are no longer enough to help you live safely and independently at home, it may be time to have your needs reviewed.
You can contact My Aged Care to discuss what’s changed. Depending on your circumstances, you may be referred for a reassessment to determine whether you need additional from a program like Support at Home.
Consider a Reassessment If You:
- Need support more frequently
- Need more personal or clinical care
- Have experienced changes to your health or mobility
- Are finding everyday activities increasingly difficult
- Feel your current services are no longer enough
Understand Your Home Care Options
Download Your Free GuideThere’s a lot to understand when navigating aged care funding. Our free Home Care Guide makes it easier to understand the different types of support available and what your next steps could look like. Inside this guide, you’ll find:
- Understanding your home care options
- Government funding and Support at Home
- Services that can support you at home
- What to consider when choosing a provider
- How HCA Home Care can support you
Here When You Need More Support
Local, Personal Support
A dedicated local Customer Care Manager who understands your needs and coordinates your care.
24/7 Assistance
Support is available around the clock when you need it.
Qualified, Experienced Workers
Experienced care professionals backed by Healthcare Australia’s own training organisation.
50+ Years in Healthcare
Personalised home care backed by decades of Australian healthcare experience.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to get in touch with our team and we’ll be happy to help.
What is the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)?
CHSP provides government-subsidised, entry-level support to help older Australians continue living safely and independently at home. It is generally suited to people who need a smaller amount of help with everyday activities.
How do I know if I have CHSP or Support at Home?
Check your My Aged Care Notice of Decision and support plan. These documents will identify which program you’ve been approved for and outline the services or support available to you.
What services can CHSP cover?
Depending on your assessment, CHSP can include services such as domestic assistance, meals, transport, personal care, social support, planned respite, nursing, allied health and some home maintenance or adjustments.
What’s the difference between CHSP and Support at Home?
CHSP is designed for entry-level needs and generally approves you for specific services. Support at Home is designed for people with more ongoing or complex needs and provides funding based on your approved classification and care plan.
What if my CHSP services are no longer enough?
If your health, mobility or support needs have changed, contact My Aged Care to discuss your circumstances. You may need a reassessment to determine whether additional support or Support at Home is more appropriate.
Can I request a reassessment?
Yes. If your circumstances or care needs have changed since your assessment, you can contact My Aged Care to discuss having your needs reviewed.
Do I have to pay for CHSP services?
CHSP services are subsidised by the Australian Government, but you’ll generally contribute towards the cost of the services you receive. How much you pay depends on the services, your provider and your ability to contribute. You won’t need to complete an income and assets assessment, and your provider will explain and agree to any costs with you before services begin. If you’re unable to afford the contribution, financial hardship arrangements are available.
Is CHSP being replaced by Support at Home?
CHSP is currently continuing until 30 June 2027. The Australian Government has advised that CHSP will transition to Support at Home no earlier than 1 July 2027.
Still Exploring Your Home Care Options?
Understanding the different types of aged care funding can make it easier to plan. Download our free guide to learn more about home care, Support at Home and the support available as your needs change.