Support at Home Level 2 Aged Care: Stepping Up to Personal Care (2026 Guide)

As we age, there often comes a point where “help around the house” isn’t quite enough. You might find that stepping into a high bathtub feels risky, or managing multiple medications is becoming confusing.

In 2026, Level 2 (Classification 2) of the Support at Home program is designed for this exact transition. While Level 1 focuses on chores, Level 2 is about you. It introduces subsidized personal care and more frequent social support to ensure you stay safe, healthy, and confident in your own home.

What is Support at Home Level 2?

Level 2 is for seniors with “low-to-moderate” care needs. At this level, the goal of the Aged Care Act 2024 is to provide structured, reliable support several times a week.

The biggest difference between Level 1 and Level 2 is the inclusion of Personal Care. This means a qualified care worker can assist with intimate daily tasks that involve your physical safety and hygiene.

How Much Funding Do You Receive?

Under the 2026 funding model, Level 2 provides a more robust budget to cover more frequent visits:

• Annual Budget: ~$16,034

• Quarterly Allocation: ~$4,008

Care Management: Like all levels, 10% of this budget is dedicated to your Care Partner. At Level 2, your Care Partner plays a bigger role in monitoring your health and ensuring your services (like podiatry or pharmacy deliveries) are working together seamlessly.

What Services Are Included in Level 2?

Level 2 allows for a more diverse mix of services. A typical weekly schedule might include 3 to 4 hours of support.

1. Personal Care (The “Independence” Stream)

This is the core of Level 2. It’s designed to help you maintain your dignity and hygiene safely.

• Showering & Dressing: A care worker can assist you in and out of the shower and help with buttons, zippers, or compression stockings.

• Grooming: Assistance with hair care, shaving, or basic skincare.

• Medication Prompts: Ensuring you take the right tablets at the right time.

2. Enhanced Social & Domestic Support

• Accompanied Outings: More than just a taxi service; a worker can stay with you at a cafe, a library, or a community center to help you stay socially active.

• Meal Preparation: Assistance with cooking fresh, nutritious meals in your own kitchen.

• Regular Cleaning: Consistent help with laundry, bed-making, and vacuuming.

3. Clinical & Allied Health ($0 Cost)

In 2026, clinical services remain fully government-funded. At Level 2, you might use:

• Physiotherapy: Gentle exercises to improve balance and prevent falls.

• Occupational Therapy (OT): An assessment to see if you need minor home additions, like a shower chair or a kettle tipper.

• Podiatry: Routine foot care, which is vital for mobility.

2026 Costs: What Will You Pay?

Your contribution is based on your income and the “stream” of service you use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How many hours of care can I get per week?

While every provider’s rates differ, a Level 2 budget usually covers roughly 3 to 4 hours of support per week. This could be two 1-hour “personal care” visits and one 1.5-hour “cleaning and shopping” visit.

2. Can I use Level 2 funding for a walker or a wheelchair?

Yes, but you should check the AT-HM (Assistive Technology) scheme first. In 2026, you can get “Medium Tier” upfront funding (up to $2,000) for mobility aids. This is often better than using your ongoing care budget.

3. What if I’m transitioning from an old “Level 2 Home Care Package”?

If you were on the old system before November 2025, you are protected by the “No Worse Off” guarantee. You likely transitioned into a “Transitioned Level 2” classification with a slightly higher annual budget (~$19,319) to match your previous funding.

4. When should I ask for a move to Level 3?

If you find that you need help every single day with showering, or if you have had a recent fall that has significantly lowered your confidence, it may be time for a reassessment. Level 3 (Intermediate Care) offers nearly double the funding of Level 2.