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Government contributions and fees

Funding combines government subsidies with individual contributions based on needs.

How Government Funding and Fees Work

Under the Support at Home program, the cost of in-home aged care services is shared between the Australian Government and the individual receiving care. Government contributions help subsidise approved aged care services, reducing the overall cost of support and making home care more accessible for older Australians who wish to remain living independently.

Individuals may also be required to pay a personal contribution toward their care, depending on factors such as income, assets, and care needs. This shared funding model ensures aged care support remains affordable, fair, and sustainable, while continuing to provide high-quality government-subsidised aged care tailored to each person’s circumstances.

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What are government contributions under Support at Home?

Government contributions are payments made by the Australian Government to help cover the cost of approved in-home aged care services. These contributions reduce the overall cost of care for individuals and are based on assessed care needs and eligibility, ensuring support is provided to those who need it most.

The level of government contribution depends on the type of support required and the outcomes of an aged care assessment. This approach allows funding to be tailored to individual circumstances, supporting flexible care arrangements that help people remain safe, comfortable, and independent in their own homes.

What fees might individuals need to pay?

n addition to government contributions, individuals may be asked to make financial contributions toward the cost of their care to help cover services and support the ongoing delivery of in-home aged care. These fees are designed to reflect personal circumstances, ensuring charges are fair, flexible, and tailored rather than applying a fixed, one-size-fits-all amount.

The amount an individual may pay can vary depending on factors such as income, assets, and the specific types of services they receive. The value of these contributions is reflected in the quality of care delivered, with My Guardian recognised as a finalist in the 2025 Ageing Australia ACE Awards, highlighting excellence in service delivery and the meaningful outcomes achieved through client-supported care.

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How are individual contributions determined?

  • Contributions are decided through an assessment reviewing care needs and financial circumstances before confirming payment requirements.

  • Income, assets, and overall finances are considered to determine a fair contribution aligned with ability to pay.

  • Care needs are assessed alongside finances to ensure support levels match safety, independence, and wellbeing at home.

  • This balanced approach maintains affordability for individuals while supporting fairness and sustainability of the aged care system.

Are fees the same for everyone?

Fees Vary Individually
Fees under Support at Home are not the same for everyone, as contribution amounts depend on personal financial circumstances, assessed care needs, and individual situations.
Based On Circumstances
Some people may pay little or no contribution, while others contribute more depending on income, assets, financial position, and their capacity to reasonably share in the cost of care services they receive.
Fair Contribution System
Contribution arrangements are designed to remain fair and proportionate, ensuring payments reflect a person’s ability to pay without creating unnecessary financial hardship.

Government Contributions and Fees

Government contributions and individual fees work together to fund Support at Home services, ensuring older people receive appropriate care while maintaining fairness, flexibility, and sustainability within Australia’s aged care system.

What do government contributions and fees cover?

Government contributions and individual fees help fund approved care services delivered in the home.

  • Personal care and hygiene assistance
  • Clinical and nursing support services
  • Help with daily living activities
  • Allied health and therapy services
  • Support with mobility and transfers
Can Support at Home costs change over time

Can contributions and fees change over time?

Yes, funding and contribution arrangements can be reviewed if circumstances change.

  • Adjustments may occur if care needs increase or decrease
  • Financial situation changes may affect contribution amounts
  • Reviews help ensure care remains suitable and affordable
  • Funding levels can be updated to match current support

How is this different from Home Care Package fees?

Support at Home introduces a more streamlined and transparent approach to contributions and fees compared to Home Care Packages. Rather than being tied to fixed package levels, contributions are more closely aligned with assessed needs and individual circumstances. This means fees are more flexible and reflective of the actual care received, helping ensure that funding is fair, personalised, and directly supports the services individuals require.

Additionally, this approach makes it easier for individuals and families to understand their financial obligations and plan accordingly. It also allows adjustments over time if care needs change, providing a more responsive and sustainable system for in-home support.

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Key points about government contributions and fees

Government contributions and individual fees help fund Support at Home services, keeping aged care accessible, fair, and sustainable while supporting people to receive appropriate, needs-based support at home.

  • Government contributions subsidise approved Support at Home services
  • Individuals may be required to pay a contribution based on personal circumstances
  • Fees are not the same for everyone
  • Contributions and fees can change if circumstances change
  • Funding applies only to approved in-home aged care services

Next steps

Understanding government contributions and fees helps individuals and families plan and manage care with greater confidence. Clear information supports informed decisions about services, costs, and available support under the Support at Home program.

Further details are available about overall funding arrangements, eligibility requirements, and how Support at Home operates in practice. Exploring this information can help individuals better understand options and prepare for ongoing care needs.

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