The Role of a Care Partner in Your Support at Home Journey

Introduction 

From 1 November 2025, the new Support at Home program will replace Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC). Alongside these changes, a new role is being recognised and supported — the Care Partner. 

For many older Australians, having someone by their side to help navigate aged care makes all the difference. But what exactly is a Care Partner, and what do they do? 

This article explains: 

• What a Care Partner is and how they support you 

• The role of Care Partners under the new Aged Care Act 

• Why families may want to nominate one 

• Steps you can take to make the most of a Care Partner relationship 

What Is a Care Partner? 

A Care Partner is usually a trusted family member, friend, or supporter who helps you manage your aged care journey. They are different from your provider or care worker — their role is to stand beside you and ensure your needs and wishes are respected. 

A Care Partner can help with things like: 

• Attending assessments or care plan meetings with you 

• Helping you understand your options and services 

• Supporting you to make decisions, or speaking on your behalf if you choose 

• Making sure your rights are upheld under the new Aged Care Act 

The Role of Care Partners Under Support at Home 

Under the new Aged Care Act 2024, older people have the right to a registered supporter. This is part of the Statement of Rights and ensures you can choose someone to help you make care decisions. 

Key responsibilities may include: 

• Communication: Acting as your voice in conversations with providers or assessors. 

• Decision-making support: Helping you understand care plan details, service lists, and costs. 

• Advocacy: Ensuring your preferences and choices are respected. 

• Practical support: Organising paperwork, following up with providers, or helping with My Aged Care. 

Why Having a Care Partner Matters 

For older Australians and their families, a Care Partner provides: 

• Confidence – knowing you won’t have to navigate the system alone. 

• Clarity – helping make sense of service options, funding, and rights. 

• Peace of mind – for families, knowing someone trusted is supporting decisions. 

• Continuity – ensuring that your care plan is consistent and tailored to your needs. 

This role is especially valuable as the Support at Home program introduces new service lists, funding rules, and contribution requirements that can be complex to understand without help. 

How to Choose and Register a Care Partner 

If you’d like to have a Care Partner in your Support at Home journey: 

1. Think about who you trust – It may be an adult child, close friend, or relative. 

2. Discuss the role openly – Make sure they are comfortable supporting you. 

3. Register them officially – Under the new Act, you’ll be able to nominate a “registered supporter” through My Aged Care. 

4. Stay involved – Even with a Care Partner, your voice is central. They are there to support, not replace, your choices. 

Preparing for Support at Home With a Care Partner 

To get ready for the transition: 

• Talk with your family about whether you’d like a Care Partner. 

• Review your current care plan and services together. 

• Ask providers how they will work with your Care Partner during assessments and reviews. 

• Keep communication open — your Care Partner should always reflect your wishes. 

Conclusion 

The introduction of Care Partners (registered supporters) under the new Aged Care Act gives older Australians and their families greater confidence and control. 

With a Care Partner by your side, you can: 

• Navigate assessments and care plans more easily 

• Ensure your rights are respected 

• Make informed choices about your services and funding 

By choosing the right person and registering them before the Support at Home program begins, you’ll be better prepared to manage the changes and continue living safely and independently at home. 

Want guidance on setting up a Care Partner? 

Our friendly team can explain how Care Partners work under Support at Home and help you prepare for the changes. Give our aged care experts a call on 1300 336 488.