The Federal Government has committed $5.6 billion to reform the aged care sector, aiming to provide Australians with enhanced, personalised care at home or in residential facilities.
Starting 1 July 2025, the new Support at Home Program will replace the existing Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC). In July 2027, Support at Home will later extend to include the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP).
From July 2025, Support at Home will offer eight levels of support, with funding up to $78,000 per year per client. The program covers three main service areas:
Your current contribution rates will remain the same, and new contributions for independence and everyday living services will be means-tested for new clients.
For ARRCS residents in residential aged care, reforms will focus on funding stability, quality improvement, and stronger protections. Current residents will retain their existing financial contributions, with no changes to family home treatment for those receiving care as of 30 June 2025.
If you’re already receiving services, in the community or in one of our aged-care homes, rest assured that you will not pay more under the new reforms – the “no worse-off” principle guarantees your current rates stay the same.
These reforms will come with a new Aged Care Act from 1 July 2025 and a modern regulatory framework that all providers, including ARRCS will follow to ensure high-quality care. These new laws protect older Australians in aged care, with stronger powers to investigate bad behaviour and civil penalties for breaching standards.