Preparing for changes under the new Support at Home program

From 1 July 2025, the existing Home Care Packages program and the Short-Term Restorative Care Programme will be consolidated into the new Support at Home program. Although some details about the final implementation of the program and its potential impacts on providers are still to be determined, the below may offer a useful starting point for providers considering how to prepare for the transition to Support at Home.

Assign resources

The significant change in regulation and the impact it will have will require providers to dedicate sufficient resources to help the business navigate the changes, appropriately manage risk and identify opportunities. 

Evaluate the impact of coming changes

Providers need to evaluate the current state of their business model and how it will be impacted by the coming changes, financially and operationally. A thorough analysis across the business will ensure providers can continue to provide effective service delivery to clients while ensuring financial sustainability. We also expect that providers will need to develop learning and development modules for their staff to upskill them on the new classification system, processes, pricing and fee arrangements, including training for staff to have effective conversations with clients about the changes.

Develop risk management strategies and identify opportunities

Once providers have assessed the changes and impacts, they will then need to determine what steps need to be taken to effectively manage associated risks (including financial and non-financial risks). Providers are encouraged to assess whether any opportunities may arise from the upcoming changes and consider how best to strategically capitalise on them. For instance, this could include accessing additional sources of funding to reinvest in improving operations.

Implement process and system changes

With the change in funding model and mechanism for invoicing, providers will need to evaluate the necessary changes to existing systems and processes, particularly in the finance function. These changes should be determined and tested prior to the cutoff date for the new program to ensure a smooth transition and minimal disruption to operations. Providers are also encouraged to consider existing process or system constraints that may be improved at the same time, as well as the training needs of staff.

Ongoing monitoring and adaptation

Continuous monitoring of a provider’s response to regulatory changes is key to ensure adjustments can be made as required in a timely fashion. Effective communication across the business and with clients, carers, and families will be key to maintaining clarity and trust during this transition.

These strategic project management principles will help aged care providers to navigate changes under the new Support at Home program in 2025, and ensure the continued delivery of high-quality, sustainable care to their clients.