An 11.9% increase in Government Home Care Package subsidies from 1 July 2023 will go some way to compensate for the 15% wage increase for aged care workers announced in the 2023 Federal Budget. Even so, many providers have increased their charge out rates to cover the shortfall.
For existing Home Care Package recipients, the number of care hours per week will remain at about the same level or possibly less.
The increasingly popular option of self-managing a Home Care Package can often help people stretch their care hours and with people of their choosing.
Depending on a person’s care needs, government help at home can also come from a cheaper but possibly less reliable source – the Commonwealth Home Support Program.
Need to know: The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) is an entry-level program designed to provide one or two services to frail older people who need only a small amount of assistance or support. Enough to enable them to maintain their independence, continue living safely in their homes and participate in their communities.
