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How Long Will I Wait for a Home Care Package? What the Latest Data Says

  • Writer: Omnicare Alliance
    Omnicare Alliance
  • Sep 9, 2025
  • 3 min read

One of the biggest questions families ask when starting the aged care journey is: “How long will I have to wait for a Home Care Package?”


The truth is, wait times can vary a lot. Some people are approved and matched with a package quickly, while others wait months or even longer. In 2025, despite government reforms and extra funding, many Australians are still experiencing delays.


Here’s what the latest data tells us, why wait times differ, and what you can do while you wait.



The Short Answer

When your needs are urgent, you may be assigned a package within about a month. For others, the wait is often much longer.


As of mid-2025, many older Australians are waiting 6–12 months, depending on their assessed level of need and where they live. Higher levels (3 and 4) usually have the longest queues, because demand is high and fewer packages are available.


What the Latest Reports Show

Quarterly government data gives us a picture of the system:

  • Tens of thousands of people remain on the waiting list for a Home Care Package.

  • Most are already receiving some level of support through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) while they wait.

  • Wait times vary by level: Level 1 and 2 packages are often assigned faster, while Level 3 and 4 can take over a year unless you are prioritised.


These figures highlight why families often feel pressure and uncertainty during the waiting period.


Why Wait Times Differ

Several factors influence how long you wait:

  • Priority status: Urgent cases are placed at the front of the queue.

  • Your package level: Higher-level care requires more funding, and demand is higher.

  • Location: Availability differs by region. Some areas simply have more packages available than others.

  • Provider capacity: Even if you’re assigned a package, you may still need to find a provider with the right staff and services.


The Government’s Response: 20,000 Extra Packages

In response to growing pressure, the Australian Government brought forward 20,000 additional Home Care Packages in 2025. This is welcome news, but it doesn’t mean wait times will disappear overnight.


These extra places are designed to ease bottlenecks, especially at the higher levels, but it’s still important to plan ahead and use interim supports where you can.


What You Can Do While You Wait

Waiting can feel frustrating, but there are practical steps to make the process easier:

  1. Apply for CHSP services – These can provide cleaning, meals, transport, or personal care until your package is ready.

  2. Ask for a priority review – If your health or situation changes, contact My Aged Care for reassessment.

  3. Consider private top-ups – Some families choose to pay for additional services short-term.

  4. Stay in touch with My Aged Care – Make sure your contact details and circumstances are up to date.

  5. Talk with providers early – Some, like Omnicare, can help you plan care so you’re ready to start as soon as your package is assigned.

  6. Document changes – Keep letters from doctors, hospital records, or notes from health professionals to support your case if you need faster access.

  7. Look after your wellbeing – Waiting is stressful. Reach out for support from family, friends, or carers’ networks.


FAQs

How do I check my place in the queue?

You can call My Aged Care for an update or ask your chosen provider to check on your behalf.


Can I change providers while waiting?

Yes. If you’re already with one provider for CHSP services, you can switch to another if you prefer.


Will Support at Home change wait times?

The new system, starting on 1 November 2025, is designed to be simpler, but demand is still expected to be high. Wait times may improve gradually, but it will depend on government funding and workforce availability.


Final Word

Waiting for a Home Care Package can be one of the toughest parts of the aged care journey. While reforms and extra funding are helping, many people still experience delays.


The good news is: you don’t have to wait without support. Omnicare can help you access CHSP services, guide you through interim options, and prepare your care plan so you’re ready the moment your package arrives.


👉 Call Omnicare on 1300 336 488 to talk about support options while you wait.

 
 
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