Support At Home Program: Assistive Technology & Home Modifications Funding
Australia’s aged care system is changing. Starting from 1 November 2025, the Support at Home program will replace the existing in-home Home Care Packages (HCPs). One of the biggest changes is the new Assistive Technology & Home Modifications Scheme for Support At Home participants.
If you or a loved one wants to stay safe and independent at home as you age, this scheme could be a game-changer.
We’ll walk you through exactly how it works, who it helps, what it covers, and what it means for families depending on approved aged care service providers, especially in areas like Wagga Wagga.
What Is the Support at Home Program?
The Support at Home program is all about giving older Australians better, easier access to help at home. It combines the current Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) into one new system.
There are eight funding levels, from light help to complex care. It’s designed to give you the support you need when you need it, from help with meals to personal care or mobility.
The new scheme also includes special funding, just for assistive technology and home modifications. That means you won’t need to use up your regular care budget for things like ramps, grab rails, or wheelchairs. You’ll have separate funds for Aged Care Companies and assistive components.
What Is the Assistive Technology & Home Modifications Scheme?
This scheme helps older Aussies live safely and independently at home for longer. It gives extra money, separate from your regular aged care funding, for:
● Assistive Technology (AT): Tools and devices that make everyday tasks easier.
● Home Modifications (HM): Changes to your home that make it safer and more accessible.
And the best bit? You don’t need to save up from your usual care budget to afford them. Your in-home aged care service provider can help you get the right home modifications.
Examples of Assistive Technology
Assistive technology includes simple tools and high-tech devices. These are just a few examples:
● Mobility aids: Like walking frames, scooters, and wheelchairs.
● Personal alarms and fall detectors: For safety.
● Hearing aids: And smart speakers to help with communication.
● Blood pressure monitors: Or wearable devices to manage health.
● Medication reminders: For people living with dementia.
These tools help people stay active and confident in their homes. In-home care services and carers can also help teach you how to use them.
Examples of Home Modifications
Home modifications make your home safer and easier to get around. These can include:
● Small changes: Like grab rails, anti-slip mats, and automatic lights.
● Medium changes: Such as ramps, handrails, or stair lifts.
● Big changes: Like bathroom renovations or widening doorways for wheelchairs.
If you’re working with an in-home Aged Care Provider in Wagga Wagga, they can help organise these changes with the right local builders and therapists. Too easy!
Who Can Get This Support?
To qualify, you need to go through a formal assessment. This is done through the Single Assessment System (which is already used to assess aged care needs).
Depending on what you need, you could receive one of three funding levels:
● Low level: Up to $500 (e.g., grab rails, non-slip mats)
● Medium level: Up to $2,000 (e.g., walking frames, shower chairs)
● High level: Up to $15,000+ (e.g., ramps, full bathroom upgrades)
If your needs are more complex (especially over $15,000), you may need a prescription or referral from a qualified health professional. Aged care companies can help connect you with these professionals.
How Is It Funded?
One of the best parts of this scheme is the separate and upfront funding. That means you don’t need to dip into your other care funds just to stay safe at home.
Key points:
● Assistive Tech Loan First: For higher-cost items, they’ll check if you can loan the item first through the National Assistive Technology Loans Scheme (being tested in NSW).
● Direct Purchase for Low-Cost Items: You can buy small, low-risk items without needing a loan. Your in-home aged care provider in Wagga Wagga, or wherever you’re based, can help you connect with the right dealer.
● Means-Based Contributions: If you’re a pensioner, you may pay less. The government covers all medical care but may ask for some contribution for home improvements.
● “No Worse Off” Promise: If you already get support under the HCP program, you won’t pay more for an in-home aged care provider in Wagga Wagga, for example, under the new system.
● Use Leftover HCP Funds: If you’ve got money left from your current plan, you can use it for AT-HM items while transitioning.
What Do Aged Care Service Providers Do?
Registered aged care service providers have an important role in this scheme. Whether you’re in the city or regional areas like Wagga Wagga, your provider will help:
● Source the right items: And work with you to decide what you need.
● Arrange installation or delivery: For your assistive tech or home modifications.
● Train you and your carers: To use the equipment safely.
● Ensure quality: By meeting government rules and price limits.
● Update your care plan: So that it includes the tech and home changes that suit your goals.
For example, a local aged care provider in Wagga Wagga might work with local trades and occupational therapists to get ramps built, or alarms installed faster.
Benefits of the Scheme
This scheme brings loads of benefits:
● Stay independent: Live in your own home for longer.
● Feel safer: With tools that prevent falls and injuries.
● Save money: With smart loans and funding options.
● Have more choice: With a wide range of approved devices and services.
● Get help quickly: With funding that doesn’t delay your support.
These changes are a huge plus for people needing home care services.
What Challenges Should You Be Aware Of?
● Small aged-care service providers may need time: To adjust to the new rules, although Home at Heart providers have already received training.
● Rural areas: Like some parts of Wagga Wagga, might face delays if there aren’t enough service providers.
● Not everyone knows: About the scheme yet, so it’s important to spread the word.
If you have questions, talk to your provider early. Local in-home care services teams are there to guide you every step of the way.
When Does It Start?
The Support at Home program, including this scheme, starts on 1 November 2025. If you’re already receiving help under the home care packages, you will automatically move over. You won’t lose your services, and you won’t need a new assessment unless your needs change.
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) will keep running until July 2027 to make sure no one misses out during the transition.
Wrapping Up: A Safer Home, A Better Life
The Assistive Technology & Home Modifications Scheme for Support At Home Participants is a big step forward for aged care in Australia. It helps our Aussie seniors stay where they feel happiest and most comfortable, in their own homes.
With help from your local in-home care services, including those in areas like Wagga Wagga, you can get the right support, tools, and changes that make life easier. From mobility issues, health challenges, or just wanting to feel safer, there’s now a simple, funded way to get what you need!
Speak to your in-home aged care provider in Wagga Wagga today to find out more.