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Vision Australia understands that older Australians in the blind and low vision community are beginning to feel anxious about upcoming changes to aged care programs. A common theme we hear is concern about how fees and contributions will work, particularly with the new Support at Home model coming into effect on 1 November 2025.

It’s important to remember that these changes are designed to improve consistency and clarity for you. While there may be new things to get used to, there will be safeguards in place and support to help you understand your options. 

Understanding the programs

Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) offers entry-level supports such as cleaning, transport, and light domestic help, as well as specialised vision services. The government pays most of the cost, but some providers will ask clients to contribute to the cost of services if they can.

Home Care Packages (HCP) are available for people with more complex care needs and can offer basic help around the home and garden, personal care and therapeutic supports. These packages are more flexible, but they are also means tested and may come with higher fees.

Support at Home will replace HCP in November 2025. Services under Support at Home will be grouped into three categories: Clinical Care, Independence Supports, and Everyday Living. Clinical care will remain fully funded by government. For the other two categories, consumer contributions will be mandatory and are based on your income and assets.

The concerns we hear

Support at Home will work differently. For non-clinical services, such as cleaning and personal care, contributions may increase, depending on your income and assets. Knowing how your services are categorised can help you plan.

Timing can make a difference. If your HCP was approved before 12 September 2024, you are considered “grandfathered”, meaning some fee protections apply to you.

Costs feel different for everyone. Even small contributions can be difficult if money is tight. Don’t hesitate to ask your provider what options exist to reduce or waive contributions if they’re unaffordable.

The official reforms: What the government says

The government has made several commitments designed to give people a feeling of reassurance as the changes begin to roll out:

  • Those on an existing HCP will not pay more than under their current arrangement, known as the ‘no worse off’ principle.
  • CHSP will continue at least until July 2027, allowing time to adjust.
  • Assessments of contributions will be based on income and assets and linked to the service type.

These commitments are designed to reassure people that there will be continuity and protections as the system changes.

Moving forward

There are some practical steps you can take to help you feel more confident as the changes happen:

  • Stay informed. Ask your service provider for updates. Make sure information is available in a format you can access.
  • Plan ahead. Think about the kinds of supports you rely on most and ask how they will be categorised under Support at Home.
  • Know your rights. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and advocate for yourself.

The aged care reforms aim to standardise and improve support for older Australians. While change can bring uncertainty, it’s important to remember that there will be time, support, and advice available throughout the transition.

For people who are blind or have low vision, the key is not to step away from services out of worry or concern, but to ask questions, stay connected with providers and make sure your voice is heard.