What Happens to Your Home Care Package Funds?
- Omnicare Alliance
- Oct 15
- 3 min read
Introduction
From 1 November 2025, Australia’s aged care system will change as the new Support at Home program replaces Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC).
If you or your loved one are currently receiving a Home Care Package, you may be asking:
What will happen to the funds in my package?
Can I still save unspent funds?
How will the new rules affect my services and budget?
What does this mean for my family?
This article explains what happens to your Home Care Package funds, what changes under Support at Home, and how you can prepare.
What Are Home Care Package Funds?
Your Home Care Package funds are made up of:
Government subsidy – the main funding amount you receive, based on your assessed care level.
Basic daily fee (if applicable).
Income-tested care fee (for those who can afford to contribute more).
Any additional fees agreed with your provider.
These funds are pooled into your individual budget, which pays for your services such as:
Personal care (showering, dressing, mobility support)
Meals and shopping help
Transport
Nursing and allied health
Home modifications and equipment
What Happens to Your Funds Under Support at Home?
When Support at Home begins, your current funds won’t disappear. Instead, they will transition into the new model with some important changes.
Continuity of Care
If you are already receiving a Home Care Package, your services will continue under transitional arrangements.
Providers must ensure your care is not interrupted during the move to Support at Home.
Changes to How Funds Work
Unspent funds: Under Support at Home, you can only carry forward a limited amount each quarter (up to $1,000 or 10% of your package). This is different from the current system, where funds could accumulate over time.
Caps on modifications: There will be a lifetime cap of $15,000 for home modifications.
Service categories: Funds will be clearly allocated to service groups (daily living, independence, clinical care, assistive technology).
Greater Transparency
Families will see a clearer breakdown of what the government pays for versus what clients contribute.
This transparency helps with planning but may mean families need to prioritise services more carefully.
What This Means for Families
For older Australians and their families, these changes mean:
Less flexibility in saving funds for big-ticket items (like bathroom upgrades).
More predictable budgets — you’ll know what services are funded and what contributions are expected.
Ongoing support — existing clients keep their care, but with new rules around carryover and funding categories.
How to Prepare for the Transition
To make sure you and your family are ready:
Review your current balance – Check how much unspent funding you have in your package.
Plan ahead for modifications – If you’re considering major home changes, you may want to act before the new caps apply.
Ask your provider – Find out how your funds will be managed when Support at Home starts.
Have a family conversation – Talk about which services are most important to you.
Stay updated – Visit My Aged Care for the latest information.
Conclusion
Your Home Care Package funds will not be lost when the Support at Home program begins — but the way they are managed will change.
The new rules limit how much you can carry forward, introduce caps on some services, and separate funds into clearer categories. While this may reduce flexibility, it also means greater transparency and accountability.
By reviewing your package now, talking to your provider, and planning with your family, you can make the most of your care funds — and continue living safely and independently at home.
Want help understanding your Home Care Package funds?
Our team can guide you through the Support at Home changes — from managing unspent funds to planning your future care give our aged care experts a call on 1300 336 488.
