Support at Home: What You Need to Know (From Someone Who’s Been There)
By Pounéh Sedghi, OSAN Ability Blacktown Director
Lately, a lot of the questions we’re getting are about the upcoming Support at Home program that’s replacing Home Care Packages (HCP) and Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). There’s a lot of noise out there, but not a lot of clarity. That’s why I’ve taken the top 20 questions I’m being asked and answered them in plain English—no jargon, no fluff. Just the truth about what’s coming, how it affects you or your loved ones, and how we can help you navigate the transition with confidence
- What is the Support at Home program?
It’s the new model replacing the current Home Care Packages (HCP) and Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). The goal? Make care at home simpler, more flexible, and more responsive.
- When does it start?
Support at Home kicks off in July 2025 for residential aged care and November 2025 for in-home care.
- Will my HCP or CHSP automatically roll over?
Yes—but there will be some key changes in how funding is structured and how services are delivered. Don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through it step-by-step.
- Will I need to be reassessed?
Not initially. If you already have a package or support through CHSP, your funding will transition. Reassessments may happen down the track to align with the new system.
- Will I lose services?
No. The new model is meant to give you more say—not less. OSAN will ensure continuity of care throughout the transition.
- What types of services are included?
Everything from personal care, transport, and domestic help to assistive technology, home modifications, and clinical services like nursing or physio.
(Yes, OSAN offers all the above—with qualified, multilingual staff.)
- Will I still have choice over my provider?
Absolutely. You stay in control. You choose your provider—and we work for you, not the other way around.
- Will I have more flexibility in how funding is used?
Yes, especially with new “bundled funding” that removes quarterly budgeting stress. We’ll help you stretch your dollars to get more hours of actual care.
- Will pricing change?
Yes, and it’s important. OSAN already charges only 10% in package management fees (the new cap is 15%). That means more care hours in your plan.
- What are “bundled payments”?
Instead of quarterly statements and balance juggling, the government will pay a fixed monthly amount that we manage on your behalf. No more guesswork.
- Will I still have a care manager?
Yes. And at OSAN, that means someone real, local, and available—not a call centre. You’ll always speak to someone who knows your story.
- Will OSAN help with the transition?
Absolutely. We’re already preparing behind the scenes to make this seamless for our clients.
- What if I’m still waiting for a package?
You’ll still apply through My Aged Care as usual. But if you’re unsure how, we help with applications at no cost.
- Can family still provide support?
Yes! We build care plans that supplement family help—not replace it. You decide how and when we step in.
- What if I’m not happy with my provider?
You can switch. And if you’re thinking of changing, we’d love to show you how OSAN does things differently.
- Will care be culturally sensitive?
With OSAN, always. Our team speaks multiple languages and understands diverse cultural values because many of us come from those communities ourselves.
- How do I know what I’m entitled to?
We’ll walk you through your My Aged Care assessment and help interpret the results, so you know exactly what support you’re eligible for.
- Will it be easier to get equipment and home mods?
Yes. The new AT-HM Scheme (Assistive Technology and Home Modifications) will streamline this process with direct funding. No more delays waiting on quarterly budgets.
- Will providers be audited?
Yes—more regularly. The government is cracking down on low-value care. But at OSAN, we welcome it. We’re already transparent and proud of it.
- Why should I choose OSAN Ability?
Because we’re different. We keep it real.
✅ Transparent pricing
✅ No hidden fees
✅ Culturally aligned care
✅ Clinical support & allied health
✅ 24/7 direct contact
✅ Local, compassionate team
Let’s Talk
If you’re overwhelmed, don’t be. Reach out, book a free consultation, and let’s make your aged care journey smoother, smarter, and more human.
📞 1300 410 491 | 🌐 osanability.com.au/agedcareblacktown | 📍 Based in Blacktown
By Pounéh Sedghi, OSAN Ability Blacktown Director
