A New Direction for In-Home Aged Care in Australia

The Australian Government has introduced a new Aged Care Act, which will come into effect from 1 November 2025. These reforms aim to create a simpler, safer, and more transparent aged care system — one that places the rights, dignity, and independence of older Australians at its heart.

You can read more about the new Act on the Department of Health and Aged Care website.

What You Need to Know

The new Act responds to the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, and includes key changes such as:

• A Statement of Rights, protecting older people’s dignity, privacy and freedom of choice
• A new Support at Home program designed to help older people live safely and independently
• Improved access to services, with fairer and more transparent funding
• Stronger Aged Care Quality Standards and accountability for providers
• More oversight and enforcement by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission

About the Support at Home Program

The Support at Home program is the future of in-home aged care in Australia.

It will replace the current Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs. Support at Home aims to deliver flexible, needs-based care so older Australians can continue living where they feel most comfortable — at home.

Key resources:

• Support at Home program resources— a list of resources including apps, audio and video resources and other publications – about the Support at Home program

• Support at Home Handbook — simple info on eligibility, assessments, and services
• Support at Home Program Manual — detailed guidance for consumers and providers

What This Means for You

All aged care providers, including Baldwin Living HomeServe, are preparing to transition from the current Home Care Package system to the new Support at Home model.

We’re actively working to:

• Upgrade our systems to meet new standards
• Train our staff and prepare clients for the changes
• Integrate health supports more seamlessly into home care
• Ensure your care remains personal, consistent and high-quality

We’re here to guide you through these changes, and your services will continue as usual for now. If anything changes for you, we’ll contact you directly — with clarity, care and plenty of notice.

Have Questions?

We understand that change can feel uncertain — especially when it comes to something as important as your support at home.

If you or your family have questions, please reach out to us directly via your Care Partner or via the contact information below:

📞 1800 911 989
📩 homeserve@baldwinliving.com.au