Feedback on the Support at Home funding arrangements
Last year, between November and December, we asked for public feedback on funding rules for the new Support at Home program.
This was Release 2a of the new Aged Care Rules consultation. Release 2a covered Support at Home funding, including subsidies, individual contributions and means testing for older people.
We received 87 written submissions from providers, aged care workers, aged care professionals, older people, family members and advocates, including those from rural, regional and metropolitan areas.
Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts.
What we heard
People liked that:
- the government will help pay for assistive technology (like communication or visual aids) and home modifications (like ramps or bathroom changes)
- there will be support for people nearing the end of their life
- there will be extra funding for person-centred care and care management
- there will be no client contributions for clinical support.
Concerns raised were:
- the cost of contributions for Support at Home, especially for full pensioners and those who do not own a home
- whether care management funding is enough to meet the needs of older people, especially those with high needs
- the $15,000 lifetime limit on home modifications might not cover major changes, like bathroom upgrades and special equipment.
What we're doing
We are consulting on the other Rules that will sit under the new Aged Care Act in stages.
All feedback is being considered and used to refine the new Aged Care Act Rules.
Find out more about consultation on the new Aged Care Act.
Let's change aged care, together
Every Australian should feel confident about accessing high quality and safe aged care, when and where they need it.
The changes mean Older people will have greater choice and control, services that respect and meet their needs, and support to stay independent as they age.
To find out more and help design the changes, visit the Get Involved page or call 1800 318 209.