What the New Aged Care Act 2024 Means for You and Your Family
- Omnicare Alliance
- Oct 2
- 3 min read
Introduction New Aged Care Act 2024
From 1 November 2025, Australia’s aged care system will enter a new chapter. The new Aged Care Act 2024 will come into effect, introducing the Support at Home program.
For older people and their families, this means some important changes — but also reassurance that many of your existing services and supports will continue.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
What the Support at Home program is and why it matters
How your rights and protections are being strengthened
What continuity of care means during the transition
How fees and costs are changing
What you and your family can do to prepare
What is the Support at Home Program?
The Support at Home program will replace:
Home Care Packages (HCP)
Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC)
The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) (basic supports such as meals and transport) will move across later, no earlier than July 2027.
The goal is to simplify aged care at home, making it easier for you and your family to understand what help is available, how to access it, and what you might pay.
Key points:
Starts 1 November 2025
Brings multiple programs into one system
Designed to reduce red tape and improve choice
Services delivered through providers registered under the new Act
Your Rights Under the New Aged Care Act
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a Statement of Rights. This gives older people clearer protections when accessing government-funded aged care.
You will have the right to:
Make your own choices about your care and services
Be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness
Be supported to make decisions (through a “registered supporter” if you choose)
Receive safe, high-quality care, free from abuse or neglect
For families, this means peace of mind knowing your loved one has stronger protections backed by law.
Continuity of Care: What Families Can Expect
If you or a family member already receives a Home Care Package or Short-Term Restorative Care, services will continue during the transition.
You will not lose your care overnight
Providers are required to manage the shift smoothly
You should be consulted about any changes to your care plan
You’ll be able to stay with your current provider where possible
This continuity is designed to reduce stress for older Australians and their families, ensuring support remains consistent while the system changes.
Costs and Fees: What Will Change (For new clients – not grandfathered)
The new Act introduces different rules for contributions and fees. Here’s what to expect:
Health and clinical services (such as nursing or wound care) will continue to be covered by the government.
Independence and daily living supports (such as showering, cleaning, or gardening) will usually require a personal contribution.
Contributions will depend on your financial situation, with full pensioners paying less and self-funded retirees expected to pay more.
There will be a lifetime cap for some services, such as home modifications.
Unspent funds can only be carried forward up to a limit each quarter.
What this means for you
Families may need to budget for increased contributions.
Some services that were once fully covered may now include a co-payment.
Planning ahead will help avoid surprises and ensure care needs are still met.
How Families Can Prepare Now
The transition is still months away, but there are steps you can take today:
Review your current services – Know what you’re receiving and what it costs.
Talk to your provider – Ask how your care will move across to Support at Home.
Check finances – Understand how means testing may affect contributions.
Stay informed – Follow updates from My Aged Care and government resources.
Have family conversations – Make sure everyone understands what’s changing and how it may affect care arrangements.
Conclusion
The new Aged Care Act 2024 and Support at Home program represent the most significant changes to aged care in years.
For older Australians and their families, this means:
Stronger rights and protections
A smoother system designed for continuity of care
Clearer rules around costs and contributions
Now is the time to prepare — review your current care, talk to your provider, and seek advice so that when the changes arrive, you and your loved ones feel supported, informed, and in control.
Need help understanding what these changes mean for you?
Our friendly team can guide you and your family through the Support at Home transition — from clarifying fees to helping you plan ahead give us a call on 1300 336 488.
