There are two main government programs that support people to live safely and independently at home. The one that applies to you, depends on your age and situation.
Government-funded in-home support begins with My Aged Care. Here’s what to expect:
Register with My Aged Care
Call 1800 200 422, apply online through My Aged Care, ask your GP, health professional or hospital to refer you, or book an appointment with an aged care specialist officer at Services Australia.
During registration, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can choose to have their assessment conducted by an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander assessment organisation.
Complete your assessment
If eligible, you’ll meet with an aged-care assessor who uses the Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT) to understand your goals, health, function, and circumstances. Together, you’ll discuss what supports could help you stay independent.
Receive your support plan and Notice of Decision
After your assessment, you’ll receive:
If approved for funded services, you’ll receive a referral code to share with your chosen provider.
Choose a provider
Use your referral code to select an approved provider, such as Five Good Friends, and work together to put your support plan into action.
Some people only need a small amount of help to stay independent — for example, with cleaning, meals or transport.
They may be approved for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, which provides flexible, entry-level assistance and will continue until 30 June 2027 during the transition to Support at Home.
Many people speak to us while their application is still in progress — to ask questions, understand options, or prepare for next steps. While waiting for funds to be allocated, or if you aren't eligible for government-funded home care, you can opt for paying privately.
These changes began after the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety revealed the need for improvement. They aim to help more older Australians live safely and independently at home for longer, by creating a system that is:
At Five Good Friends, we welcome the changes.
Click here for a look at the key reforms including the new Support at Home programme which commences on November 1, 2025.
Let’s get you the right support. What do you need?
