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Support at Home Program – Latest

Support at Home Program – Latest

Transitioning to the Support at Home Program: A Simple Checklist for Elderly Clients

As part of the Australian Government’s ongoing efforts to improve the care and support offered to older Australians, the Support at Home Program is being rolled out to replace the Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs.

This transition aims to make home care services more flexible and better aligned with the needs of seniors. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you through the process and ensure a smooth move to the Support at Home program.

1. Learn About the Support at Home Program

It’s important to familiarise yourself with what the Support at Home Program offers. This program includes various support levels designed to help you remain independent in your home. You can learn more about it by visiting the My Aged Care website or asking your current provider for detailed information about the transition.

Resources available include:

●       Factsheet

●       Program Handbook

●       Booklets and Brochures

2. Understand Fees and Contributions

As you prepare for the transition, it’s also essential to understand any fees or contributions that may apply to the Support at Home program. You can access a fee calculator through My Aged Care once it becomes available, which will give you an estimate of the costs involved. If you’re paying income-tested care fees, Services Australia will notify you of your contribution rate.

3. Review Your Care Plan with Your Provider

Your case manager will contact you to review your care plan and establish a new Service Agreement (this replaces the Home Care Agreement). This is an opportunity to discuss any specific needs, such as assistive technology or home modifications, which can be included in the Service Agreement. Be sure to talk about any unspent funds from your previous plan that you might want to use.

4. Explore the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme

If you need special equipment or home modifications, discuss with your provider how to use your unspent funds for these services. The Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme will help you access products that can assist with mobility, comfort, and overall safety at home.

5. Prepare for Possible Contribution Adjustments

For some individuals, there may be changes to the amount they need to contribute for their care. If you’re currently paying fees, Services Australia will notify you of any adjustments based on your income and assets. Ensure you have up-to-date information on your financial situation to avoid delays.

6. Stay Informed and Reach Out for Help

If you need assistance or have questions about the transition, you can contact organisations such as the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN). They can provide guidance and advocate on your behalf during the transition to the new program.

Support at Home Package Subsidies

The Support at Home program includes various subsidies to help cover the costs of services.

The subsidies vary depending on the level of care required, with the following amounts allocated:

●       Level 1: $29.31 per day

●       Level 2: $51.54 per day

●       Level 3: $112.18 per day

●       Level 4: $170.07 per day

Additionally, supplements are available for participants with specific needs, such as:

●       Dementia and Cognition Supplements: From $3.37 to $19.56 per day depending on the package level

●       Veterans’ Supplement: Available for eligible participants

●       Oxygen and Enteral Feeding Supplements: Covering medical needs like oxygen therapy or nutritional support, with supplements ranging from $14.25 to $25.37 per day

Other Available Subsidies

In addition to the basic subsidies, there are other supplements designed to support individuals based on their specific circumstances:

●       Hardship Supplement: Available for participants experiencing financial difficulty

●       Viability Supplements: Based on the geographic location of the participant, with varying amounts depending on the Modified Monash Model (MMM) and ARIA (Accessibility/Remoteness Index of Australia) classification.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning to the Support at Home Program is an important step in ensuring you continue to receive the care and support you need. By using the checklist provided, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for the changes ahead. Remember, we are here to help you navigate this transition and make sure that your needs are met with the utmost care and respect.

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your comfort, safety, and quality of life are our top priorities.

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Taylah Huntington

Case Manager

Taylah Huntington is a dedicated and compassionate Case Manager based on the Central Coast, bringing extensive hands-on experience across disability support, aged care, and community services.

 

Taylah has built a strong foundation working as a Disability Support Worker with both CatholicCare Diocese of Broken Bay and Trilogy Disability Services, where she currently supports individuals to live more independent, meaningful lives. Her previous role as a Support Coordinator with Sunnyfield Disability Services saw her develop strengths in client documentation, care planning, and stakeholder communication, while consistently advocating for improved client wellbeing and safety.

 

With a career that began in aged care and personal support, Taylah has developed a deep understanding of person-centred care. Her experience spans assisting with daily living, implementing behaviour support strategies, coordinating services, and fostering community engagement. She is known for her ability to build genuine relationships with clients, families, and stakeholders, ensuring support is tailored, respectful, and outcomes-focused.

 

Taylah is currently furthering her professional development through a Certificate IV in Leisure and Health, complementing her practical experience with formal training. She is highly organised, detail-oriented, and brings strong administrative and problem-solving skills to her role.

 

As a Case Manager, Taylah is committed to delivering high-quality, relationship-based support that empowers individuals to achieve their goals and enhance their quality of life.

 

Lisa Bycroft

Care Partner

Lisa is an experienced Care Partner at HomeCare Australia, supporting clients across Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, and the Hunter. With over 20 years in aged care and disability services, Lisa is known for her calm leadership, person-centred care, and deep empathy.

Her career includes frontline care, case management, and regional operations leadership with providers such as Mercy Services and integratedliving. She has coordinated services across CHSP, HCP, and NDIS programs and is particularly skilled in dementia-specific care and behaviour support.

Lisa builds strong relationships with clients and care teams alike. She empowers care workers through mentoring and hands-on support, ensuring services are respectful, flexible, and aligned with client goals.

Her qualifications include Certificate IV in Service Coordination (Ageing & Disability), Certificate IV in Leisure and Health, and Certificate III in Aged Care. She also holds credentials in medication management, dementia care, infection control, and behavior support. Lisa maintains First Aid, NDIS Worker Screening, and Working with Children Checks.

At HomeCare Australia, Lisa supports people with high and complex needs, assists with transitions to Support at Home, and ensures care plans reflect dignity and choice. Her calm presence and strong values make her a trusted guide for clients and a leader among peers.

Patricia

Roster Team Leader

As a Roster Manager, I specialize in creating efficient and effective schedules that keep our team running smoothly and ensure the highest quality of care for our clients. My goal is to optimize operations, support our incredible staff, and contribute to seamless service delivery.

My diverse career journey—from brewing the perfect cup of coffee as a barista to coordinating campaigns as a marketing administrator and ensuring compliance as a KYC agent—has given me a unique skill set. I bring adaptability, precision, and

a customer-focused mindset to everything I do, qualities that align perfectly with HomeCare Australia’s commitment to excellence.

Outside of work, I’m a passionate reader, a foodie at heart, and an avid fan of K-dramas and binge-worthy series. I also love attending K-pop concerts, where I get to immerse myself in the electrifying energy of live performances.

With a blend of professional expertise and a vibrant personal life, I strive to bring energy, focus, and dedication to my role every day, ensuring our team and clients receive the best possible support.

Sandra Hilton

We’re excited to introduce Brittany, one of our compassionate and highly skilled Aged Care Case Managers at HomeCare Australia. Brittany brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, having worked in the community services industry since 2019. Her strong academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Communication, a Diploma of Community Services, and additional certifications in Mental Health First Aid, Applied Suicide Intervention, and Naturopathy.

Brittany’s diverse qualifications—combined with her Certificates 3 and 4 in Fitness—enable her to take a holistic and personalized approach to supporting clients in achieving their goals and maintaining independence.

Originally from a farm outside of Tamworth, Brittany grew up riding horses and caring for an array of animals, which instilled in her a deep sense of responsibility and compassion. Today, she shares her life with her partner, their lively one-year-old daughter, and their playful border collie.

Brittany is passionate about personal growth, journaling, neuroscience, and living a balanced, low-tox lifestyle. She thrives on creating meaningful connections with her clients, helping them navigate their aged care journey with kindness, empathy, and expert guidance.

Her approachable nature, love of gardening, and belief in the importance of protecting your energy ensure that she brings warmth and positivity to every interaction. Whether she’s coordinating services or simply sharing a light-hearted moment (along with her signature “funny” jokes), Brittany is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care and support.

We’re confident that Brittany’s expertise and genuine care will make her an invaluable partner in helping you or your loved one live comfortably and independently at home.Sandra Hilton is a highly experienced aged care and disability professional with over 24 years of progressive leadership across frontline care, administration, and executive management. Throughout her career, Sandra has built a strong reputation for guiding individuals and families through complex care systems with empathy, clarity, and professionalism.

 

Sandra’s expertise spans client admissions, care navigation, workforce coordination, and regulatory compliance. She has an exceptional ability to translate complicated funding structures, including aged care reforms and NDIS requirements, into clear, practical guidance for clients and their families. Her person-centred approach ensures that every individual receives the support, dignity, and advocacy they deserve.

 

In her most recent role as Customer Admissions Manager, Sandra played a key role in supporting residents and families through the aged care journey. She managed enquiries, conducted assessments, facilitated tours, and led contract negotiations, all while building trusted relationships with hospitals, clinicians, and community partners. Her ability to balance compassionate care with strong commercial and operational outcomes has consistently contributed to improved occupancy and client satisfaction.

 

Sandra’s earlier leadership roles further demonstrate her depth of experience. As an Employee Support Manager and Cluster Manager, she oversaw workforce compliance, recruitment, training, and quality improvement initiatives across multiple services. She has a strong track record in team leadership, risk management, and creating supportive environments for both clients and staff.

 

Known for her integrity, attention to detail, and calm, solutions-focused approach, Sandra excels in high-pressure environments where clear communication and decisive action are essential. She is highly skilled in stakeholder engagement and has worked collaboratively with families, clinicians, government agencies, and multidisciplinary teams throughout her career.

 

Sandra is passionate about improving access to care and empowering people to make informed decisions about their support. Her commitment to excellence, combined with her deep industry knowledge, makes her a valuable asset to any organisation dedicated to delivering high-quality, person-centred care.

 

Jo Townsend

Care Coordinator
Jo Townsend is a dedicated and compassionate Care Coordinator with extensive experience supporting older Australians to live independently and with dignity in their own homes. With a strong commitment to person-centred care, Jo brings a thoughtful, empathetic approach to every client interaction, ensuring individuals and their families feel supported, informed, and empowered.Since transitioning into the aged care sector in 2017, Jo has developed deep expertise in coordinating Home Care Packages and Support at Home services. She works closely with clients to develop tailored care plans, manage individual budgets, and coordinate multidisciplinary supports that enhance wellbeing, independence, and quality of life. Jo is highly skilled in navigating the aged care system, advocating for her clients, and ensuring they receive the services and outcomes they deserve.In her current role, Jo coordinates day-to-day care delivery, collaborates with allied health professionals, and supervises support teams to ensure consistent, high-quality care. She is known for her ability to build strong, trusting relationships with clients, families, and service providers, while effectively resolving concerns and adapting to changing care needs.Jo’s earlier career in quality assurance and management within the food industry has provided her with a strong foundation in compliance, audit processes, and continuous improvement. This experience translates into a highly organised, detail-oriented approach to care coordination, with a strong focus on meeting Aged Care Quality Standards and maintaining best practice at all times.Known for her professionalism, adaptability, and calm problem-solving approach, Jo thrives in dynamic environments where client needs can change quickly. She is equally effective working independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team, always prioritising the dignity, safety, and wellbeing of those she supports.Jo is passionate about empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their care and is committed to delivering services that promote independence, inclusion, and quality of life.

Sheryll

Foundational Member of HomeCare Australia

Sheryll has been an integral part of HomeCare Australia since the very beginning, bringing her wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to our team. As a seasoned accountant and bookkeeper with over 18 years of expertise, Sheryll’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence have been pivotal in supporting the success and growth of our organization.

A proud mother of four, Sheryll balances her professional responsibilities with her vibrant family life. Her warmth and organizational skills extend beyond the office, where she is known for her love of baking and cooking—delighting friends and family with her culinary creations.

Outside of work, Sheryll embraces life with enthusiasm. She enjoys traveling and exploring new places, channelling her creativity into crocheting unique items, and playing the guitar during her downtime. Whether she’s embarking on outdoor adventures or sharing stories with loved ones, Sheryll brings energy, joy, and a sense of purpose to everything she does.
As one of our longest-standing team members, Sheryll’s dedication, expertise, and passion continue to be an inspiration to