Important changes are happening in home care support across Australia. With the government's announcement of 20,000 additional Home Care Packages, more older Australians can access the support they need to live independently at home.
At Five Good Friends, we're here to help you understand what this means for you or your loved one. Our team are ready to guide you step by step through the journey of getting the right support in place so you can remain living in the home and community you love.
Learn more about our Aged Care services and how we support older Australians to stay safe and independent at home.
A unique chance to access home care sooner
While the aged care system prepares for its transition to the Support at Home program on 1 November 2025, these additional packages mean more people can access essential support right now.
For many families, the timing couldn’t be better. You might have noticed small but meaningful changes in your daily life or in a loved one’s needs — perhaps needing a helping hand with cooking, managing medications, or staying connected in the community. Or you may simply want to plan ahead to ensure the right support is there when it’s needed.
You don’t need to figure this out alone. At Five Good Friends, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
What the release of 20,000 Home Care Packages means for older Australians
This announcement represents real change for thousands of Australians who wish to remain independent, safe, and comfortable in their own homes.
- Shorter waiting lists: Many people who have been waiting for months will finally move into the next stage of care.
- Greater access to essential support: More funding means more people can receive the right level of support earlier.
- Peace of mind for families: You can plan care with confidence, knowing that government-funded assistance is becoming more accessible.
If you’ve recently received your Home Care Package assignment, it’s natural to feel uncertain about the next steps. That’s where we can help.
I’ve been assigned a Home Care Package – what do I do next?
Receiving confirmation of your Home Care Package is a major milestone — but it’s only the beginning. Here’s what you’ll need to do to get the right supports in place:
- Confirm your approval – Read your letter carefully and understand your assigned funding level. Each package level (1–4) offers different amounts to cover services such as personal care, domestic assistance, or allied health.
- Choose a provider – This is the most important step. The provider you choose will determine how effectively your funding is used and whether your care truly meets your needs.
At Five Good Friends, we make this step simple. We explain your package in plain language, outline your options, and ensure you start receiving the support you deserve as quickly as possible.
Already approved? Talk to our team today to get started.
Choosing the Right Home Care Package Provider in Australia
Selecting a provider isn’t just about services — it’s about finding a partner who respects your independence, understands your goals, and provides reliable support when you need it.
Here are key things to consider:
- Will I have a dedicated team I can contact when I need to?
- How are care workers selected and matched to clients?
- Will I see the same carers each day/week?
- What qualifications do your care workers have?
- How often will my care plan be reviewed?
- What are all the costs involved, and how is my budget managed?
Tip: Explore our guide on Support at Home reforms to understand how today’s decisions prepare you for future changes.
Making sense of the changes ahead
We know navigating aged care can feel overwhelming. That’s why Five Good Friends has made it our mission to simplify the journey for you and your family.
Our experienced team will guide you through every stage:
- Understanding your eligibility
- Applying for an assessment
- Accessing support sooner
- Planning for future care needs
Looking ahead
These additional packages are an important opportunity ahead of the Support at Home program. At Five Good Friends, our purpose remains the same: to support our Members to live vibrant, independent lives in the homes and communities they love.
We are uniquely positioned to support you through both immediate care needs and the changes to come in 2025.
The Five Good Friends difference
When you join Five Good Friends, you’re not just choosing a provider. You’re choosing a care team who truly understands what matters most: your independence, dignity, and quality of life.
We focus on creating meaningful connections that enhance your daily life through:
- Thoughtful Helper matching based on shared interests and understanding
- Clear, warm communication that keeps you informed and confident
- Support that evolves naturally with your changing needs
- Intuitive technology that keeps you connected and monitors your wellbeing for extra peace of mind
- Continuity of care with internal training so Helpers can upskill as your care needs evolve
It's home care that understands you. Where you’re among friends.
Take the next step
With 20,000 new Home Care Packages now available, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Contact us today for a warm, obligation-free conversation about how we can support you or your loved one to live independently, safely, and happily at home.
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