Who is eligible for the Support at Home program?

Not sure if you qualify for Support at Home? We will walk you through who’s eligible, how to apply, and what to expect from the new assessment process.

Get help with your assessment

Do you fit the criteria?

Support at Home is designed for older Australians who need extra support to continue living independently in their own homes. If you meet the criteria below, you may be eligible to receive government-subsidised aged care services through this program.

Eligibility criteria

Aged 65 or over (or 50+ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people)

Living at home (not in residential aged care)

Having difficulty with everyday activities

An Australian resident with a valid Medicare card

Do I need a new assessment?

If you’re already receiving a Home Care Package, you may not need to be reassessed under the Support at Home program—unless your care needs have changed significantly. New applicants, however, will need to complete an assessment through My Aged Care to determine their eligibility and appropriate funding level. This ensures that support matches your current situation, whether continuing with care or just getting started.

How do I get assessed?

Getting assessed for the Support at Home program is a key step in receiving the right level of care. The process is simple and designed to evaluate your needs fairly and transparently.

Register with My Aged Care online or by phone.

Call 1800 200 422 or visit My Aged Care to start the registration process.

Complete the initial screening questions.

These questions help determine whether you need a full assessment and what kind of support you might require.

You’ll be referred to an assessment team for an assessment in your home.

A trained assessor will evaluate your situation based on physical, mental, and social well-being.

After your assessment, you’ll receive a letter with your assessment outcome.

This list outlines the services you’re eligible for and the support you can access through the Support at Home program.

What is the Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT)?

The Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT) is the new standard for assessing eligibility under the Support at Home program. It has replaced the previous ACAT and RAS assessments to create a streamlined process.

The IAT is replacing ACAT and RAS assessments.

It assesses physical, cognitive, and social needs.

Determines funding level (1–8 or short-term pathway).

Ensures consistency and fairness in how support is allocated.

Already receiving a Home Care Package?

You won’t need to do anything immediately if you’re already receiving a Home Care Package (HCP). You’ll be automatically transitioned to the Support at Home program at a later stage. You’ll be notified if you need a reassessment—but for many, the transition will be seamless. If your care needs have changed significantly since your last assessment, a reassessment may be scheduled earlier to ensure your support level remains appropriate.

Book a Free Consultation

Support at Home services across Australia

Let’s Get Care offers Support at Home services all over Australia. from regional towns to capital cities — our experienced team is ready to help you access the care you need. We partner with trusted local providers to deliver tailored in-home support that meets your community’s needs, lifestyle, and goals.

Find your location

Hear from some of our happy clients!

Judie & Cecilia | Perth

I needed someone who had the lowered budget, and allowed me to get my own carer who spoke the language.

Kay & Bob | Perth

I reckon it’s the best thing that’s ever happened.

Andreas | Sydney

What I know, I’m very happy with the package, with the government.

Get help with your assessment with a free consultation

Need help navigating your eligibility or preparing for your assessment? Let’s Get Care can guide you through the entire process—from application to approval. We’ll help you prepare for your My Aged Care assessment and guide you through the steps to access care sooner.

Consultation Preferred Time(Required)

Consultation Length(Required)

Consultation Date(Required)

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Email(Required)

Phone Number(Required)

State(Required)

Postcode

What stage are you at in your home care journey?(Required)

ga_client_id

gclid

utm_campaign

utm_medium

utm_source

utm_term

utm_content

Frequently asked questions about eligibility and assessment

To be eligible for the Support at Home program, you must be 65 or older. However, if you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, or are at risk of homelessness, you may qualify from the age of 50. Learn more about what the government looks for regarding eligibility by visiting My Aged Care’s page about eligibility.

Yes, you can still apply for the Support at Home program if you’re working part-time. Your eligibility is based on your support needs, not your work status. If you need assistance with everyday tasks, mobility, or health-related care, you may qualify even while maintaining part-time employment. Learn how to get started.

The process begins with registering via My Aged Care. You’ll then complete an initial screening and a formal assessment using the new Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT). While the timing may vary based on demand, most assessments are scheduled within a few weeks. The IAT will determine your funding level and the types of services you can access.

Once your assessment is complete, you’ll be approved a support classification and a quarterly funding level and be placed on the national waitlist until your funding is assigned to you. Once you receive a letter notifying you that you have been assigned your funding, you’ll then be able to choose services based on your needs and preferences, such as clinical care, independence support or everyday living.

If your situation changes due to new health conditions or increased support needs, you can request a reassessment through My Aged Care. This ensures your funding level and care plan continue to meet your needs. Our team can help you understand when a reassessment is appropriate. Learn more about the Support at Home funding structure and how it adapts to your circumstances.

Contribution amounts depend on your income, the type of service you receive, and your pension status. For example, independence support services may have lower contribution rates than domestic assistance or home and garden maintenance. Our pricing page provides a breakdown of contributions.

Still not sure if you’re eligible?

Call our friendly team and we’ll walk you through the eligibility checklist, answer your questions, and help you take the first step toward accessing the Support at Home program.

Call 1300 497 442