Support at Home
Am I eligible?
The criteria, the My Aged Care assessment, and what happens at each step — in plain English. We help people through this every week.
About eligibility
The Support at Home Programme, which commenced on 1 November 2025, uses a needs-based approach to determine eligibility — focusing on your circumstances and requirements rather than rigid package levels.
If you were receiving a Home Care Package, you transitioned to Support at Home when it began. If you're new to aged care, understanding these criteria will help you navigate the process.
Who Can Access the Programme?
To be eligible, you'll generally need to meet the following criteria:
Age Requirements
Generally available to people aged 65 years and older (50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people).
Further details: Support at Home follows the standard aged-care eligibility age, focusing resources on those who need assistance due to age-related change.
Living Situation
You must be living in your own home or a retirement village (not in residential aged care).
Further details: Support at Home is designed for people who wish to keep living independently at home. Different supports apply in residential aged care.
Care Needs
You need assistance with daily activities or healthcare to maintain independence at home.
Further details: This includes help with daily living (personal care, mobility, meals), clinical care needs, or support to stay socially connected.
Residency Status
You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa.
Further details: If you're unsure about eligibility based on residency, contact My Aged Care for clarification.
The Assessment Process
Initial Contact
Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to discuss your needs and begin the process.
Screening
A brief phone assessment to determine if a comprehensive assessment is needed.
Comprehensive Assessment
A trained assessor visits your home to evaluate your needs, preferences and living situation.
Support Plan
A personalised support plan is created to address your specific needs.
Service Matching
You're connected with providers who can deliver the support you need.
Regular Reviews
Your needs are reassessed periodically to keep your plan appropriate.
Preparing for Your Assessment
Information to Gather
- Medicare card and other healthcare cards
- A list of your current medications and treatments
- Contact details for your GP and other healthcare providers
- Information about any health conditions or diagnoses
- Details of any support you currently receive (formal or informal)
- Recent hospital discharge papers (if applicable)
During Your Assessment
- The assessor asks about your situation, health and support needs
- They discuss your goals and what's important to you
- They may observe how you manage certain tasks
- The assessment typically takes 1–2 hours in your home
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a formal diagnosis to be eligible?
No. Eligibility focuses on your functional needs and the practical assistance required to maintain independence, not a specific medical diagnosis. Having relevant medical information available at your assessment helps ensure you get appropriate support.
What if my needs change after I've been assessed?
Support at Home is flexible. If your circumstances change, you can request a reassessment through My Aged Care, which may adjust your support plan to better meet your current needs.
How long does the assessment process take?
It varies with demand. The initial phone screening usually happens within a few days of contacting My Aged Care; a comprehensive assessment may take 2–4 weeks to arrange and 1–2 hours in your home, with another 1–2 weeks to develop your support plan.
Can I have someone with me during the assessment?
Yes — you're encouraged to have a family member, friend or advocate present. They can add information and help ensure your preferences are clear. Interpreter services can be arranged if English isn't your first language.
Ready to start your eligibility journey?
Applying for yourself or for a parent, the process is the same — and we can walk you through it.