Home care packages are an important part of caring for elderly loved ones, but the process of getting one can be confusing and overwhelming.
Home care package guidelines are constantly changing, and it can be hard to keep up with all the latest updates.
We’ve created a comprehensive home care package guide covering everything from eligibility to how to appeal a decision.
What are Home Care Packages
Home care packages provide support for people who need help with day-to-day tasks due to ageing, disability or a chronic medical condition.
The services covered by home care packages can include personal care, domestic assistance, transport, social activities and respite care.
Home care packages are delivered by government-funded organisations, and there are four levels of care available:
– Level 1: basic care needs
– Level 2: low-level care needs
– Level 3: intermediate care needs
– Level 4: high-level care needs
Home Care Package Eligibility
To be eligible for a home care package, you must first be assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT).
ACAT assessors will look at your health, functional abilities and care needs to determine which level of home care package is appropriate for you.
You can contact ACAT directly to arrange an assessment, or your doctor, hospital or other health professional can refer you.
How Home Care Packages Work
Once you have been assessed by NDIS service providers and approved one, you will be placed on a national waitlist.
Once a package becomes available, you will be contacted by the home care provider and asked to choose your preferred provider.
You can also request a change of provider if you are unhappy with the service you are receiving.
Once you have selected a provider, they will work with you to develop a care plan that outlines the services and support you will receive.
Your care plan will be reviewed regularly, and can be updated as your needs change.
Appealing a Home Care Package Decision
If you are not approved for a home care package or are unhappy with the level of care you have been allocated, you can appeal the decision.
Appeals must be lodged within 28 days of receiving the decision, and must be in writing.
You will need to provide supporting documentation, such as a medical report, to back up your appeal.
An independent panel will assess appeals, and you will be notified of the outcome within 21 days.
Who is eligible for a Home Care Package
To be eligible for a Home Care Package you must:
- Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen currently residing in Australia
- Be aged 65 years or over, or 50 years or over if you are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
- Have been assessed by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) as needing a Home Care Package
- Be on the Home Care Waiting List
Note: If you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may still be eligible for a Home Care Package if you have a humanitarian visa.
What services are included in a Home Care Package
Home Care Packages can include a range of services, such as:
- Home support
- Home maintenance and modifications
- Personal care
- Respite care
- Transport
- Social activities
