• The Federal Government has announced some changes to Support at Home.
• From October 2026, the Government will fully subsidise the cost of personal care services like showering and grooming.
• This change will benefit older people and their families by making essential home care services more affordable.
• The Government has also announced, a delay in price caps on services, stronger consumer protections, and greater price transparency.

Summary

The Commonwealth Government has announced changes to the Support at Home program. We’ve taken a closer look at what’s changing and how it might make things easier for you and your family member.

Outline

• Introduction
• Personal care to be fully funded
• Who will benefit?
• What happens until October 2026?
• Other important Budget announcements
• Why these changes matter

Introduction

The Commonwealth Government recently announced changes to the Support at Home program. These changes, confirmed when the Federal budget was handed down in May, will ensure vital home care services are more affordable for older Australians.

Personal care to be fully funded

From October 2026 the Commonwealth Government will fully subsidise the cost of personal care services. This mean you won’t be asked to contribute to the cost of essential supports like:

• Showering and bathing
• Dressing and grooming
• Mobility assistance
• Non-clinical continence care

Who will benefit?

The decision to fully fund personal care will make a meaningful difference to Support at Home participants who, from October, will not be required to contribute to the cost of their personal care.

What happens until October 2026?

The changes are expected to be introduced in October 2026.

Until then:

• The current co-contribution model for personal care services remains in place
• Older Australians entering the program before this date will still need to contribute to personal care costs
• Providers and families can begin planning ahead, knowing costs for personal care services will be fully subsidised from October.

Other important Budget announcements

The Government has also announced further adjustments aimed at strengthening the Support at Home program.

• Delay to price caps

Following feedback from providers, consumers and advocacy groups, plans to introduce price caps on services from 1 July 2026 have been deferred, meaning that for now, providers will continue to set their own fees.

As yet, no new date has been announced, and the Government continues to monitor the market and gather further evidence before making any final decisions.

• Stronger consumer protections

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will be given greater powers to ensure providers are transparent and accountable, and will be able to:

1. Order refunds where providers have overcharged aged care consumers
2. Take action against providers who fail to issue monthly statements
3. Publicly report on investigations and enforcement outcomes

• Greater price transparency

A new National Summary of Support at Home Prices will also be introduced and published quarterly. This report will show:

1. Median service prices
2. Pricing ranges across providers

This will make it easier for older Australians and their families to compare the pricing across different providers and make more informed decisions about their care.

Why these changes matter

These changes mark an important step toward making Support at Home more affordable and accessible for older Australians.

Stronger consumer protections mean older people can raise concerns with confidence, knowing that they will be addressed, while greater price transparency will help families make informed decisions about their care.

And, perhaps most importantly, the removal of co-contributions for personal care means older people will be able to access these vital supports more easily, acknowledging that these supports are not optional – they are fundamental to the dignity, safety and independence of older people who wish to age well and safely at home.

You can learn more about in-home aged care services at Kirinari here.

Or get in touch with our team to discuss your options.

The post Changes to Support at Home: what it means for you appeared first on Kirinari.

• Support at Home covers meal preparation and meal delivery
• You may be able to choose your own provider depending on your location
• Meal delivery costs vary, while preparation may require a contribution
• Contributions for meal preparation can be up to 17.5% based on your income and assessment
• Meals support helps you stay independent and well-nourished

Summary:

Support at Home meal services help you prepare food at home or access delivered meals. These services support your health and independence while living at home. This guide explains what’s included, how costs work, and what to expect.

Outline:

1. Introduction
2. What are meals under Support at Home?
3. How does meal support work?
4. Can I choose my own meal provider?
5. How do co-contributions work for meals?
6. What is not included in meal support?
7. Costs and considerations
8. When meal support can help most
9. Pros and considerations
10. Is meal support right for you?
11. Talk to Kirinari about your options

Support at Home meals help you stay well-nourished while living independently. This can include help with cooking at home or meals delivered to your door. If you are exploring aged care at home, meal support is one of the most common services.

What are meals under Support at Home?

Meals under the Support at Home program can include two types of support:

• Meal preparation at home: someone helps you cook meals in your home
• Meal delivery services: ready-made meals delivered to your door

The type of support you receive depends on your care plan and what suits your situation.
You can learn more about in-home aged care services at Kirinari here.

How does meal support work?

Meal support is arranged through your provider as part of your care plan.
At Kirinari, your care partner will help you:

• understand your needs
• choose the right support
• organise services that fit your routine

Your plan can change over time as your needs change.

Can I choose my own meal provider?

In many cases, yes.
This depends on what providers are available in your area.

Common options include:

• Lite n’ Easy
• Meals on Wheels

Your provider will make sure the service meets program requirements.

How do co-contributions work for meals?

You may need to contribute to the cost of meals.

• Meal delivery: costs are set by the provider
• Meal preparation: based on your assessment

For meal preparation, the maximum contribution is up to 17.5%, but your actual rate may be lower depending on your situation.
Your Support at Home provider will explain this clearly before services begin.

What is not included in meal support?

It’s just as important to understand what is not covered.
Support at Home meals do not include:

• the cost of groceries or ingredients
• takeaway or restaurant food
• meals for other members of your household

This keeps the support focused on your needs.

Costs and considerations

Costs can vary depending on:

• the service you choose
• your personal contribution rate
• your care plan

Your provider will explain all costs before you begin. If you’d like help understanding your options, you can speak with our team here.

When meal support can help most

Meal support can make a big difference if you:

• find cooking difficult
• have specific dietary needs
• want to save time and energy
• need support to stay healthy at home

It can also reduce stress for family members.

Pros and considerations

Benefits

• supports healthy eating
• saves time and effort
• flexible options to suit your needs
• helps you stay independent

Things to consider

• some costs may apply
• meal provider availability varies
• availability depends on your care plan

Meal support may suit you if you:

• want help preparing meals
• prefer ready-made options
• need support to maintain a balanced diet

You can explore Kirinari’s full range of home care services here.

Understanding your options is the first step to getting the right support.

At Kirinari, we can help you:

• choose the right meal support
• set up services that suit your lifestyle
• adjust your plan over time

Get in touch today with our team or call 1300 547 462

The post Support at Home meals explained: what’s included and how it works appeared first on Kirinari.

These changes include a Statement of Rights for older people receiving aged care services. They include the right to make your own decisions, to be respected, and to feel safe.

At Kirinari, it is our responsibility to ensure that these rights are upheld and that you are placed at the centre of your aged care experience.

We encourage you to talk to us if you have any concerns or questions about your care or services. It is an obligation for us to provide a complaints process that is easy to understand and access.

We’re committed to providing you with safe, quality care that meets your needs and preferences. Raising your concerns with us is often the most effective way to resolve things. It is always safe to speak up.

You can provide feedback, raise a concern or make a complaint by visiting: https://kirinari.com.au/feedback/

You can also choose to have a family member or supporter raise a concern on your behalf. If you need help making a complaint or finding information, contact the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) for free, independent, and confidential support. Call the Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600.

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is the national regulator of government funded aged care services. You can contact the Commission if you’d like independent advice or support in raising a concern.

To contact the Commission:

• Call 1800 951 822 between 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday
• Write to Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, GPO Box 9819, in your capital city
• Email info@agedcarequality.gov.au

The post Choice, dignity, respect – your rights in aged care appeared first on Kirinari.

• Self-management can look different for different people depending on what aspects of your support you want to manage.
• You choose the provider you want to work with and then work with them to plan how you will self-manage.
• Your provider must still provide care management support to you, including regular check in’s.
• If you are receiving ongoing services, 10% of your budget is set aside for care management under the Support at Home program.
• Self-management suits people who want a more active role in organising services.

Summary:

Support at Home self-management gives you more choice and control over how your care is delivered. You can decide who supports you, when services happen, and how your care is organised. This guide explains how self-management works and whether it’s the right option for you.

Outline:

1. Introduction
2. What is self-management?
3. How does self-management work?
4. What can you manage yourself?
5. What about care management?
6. Can you use your own workers?
7. Costs and considerations
8. Pros and cons
9. Is it right for you?
10. Talk to Kirinari

Support at Home self-management means you take a more active role in organising your aged care services.

You can choose your workers, set your schedule, and have more control over your care. Your provider is responsible for ensuring the services provided meet the safety and quality standards set out by the aged care quality and safety commission.

Self-management is one of the biggest changes in the new aged care program.

What is Support at Home self-management?

Self-management gives you more control over your care.

You can:

• choose your support workers
• decide when services happen
• manage how your budget is used

Your provider still supports you and makes sure your care is safe and high quality.

How does self-management work?

Self-management is set up with your provider as part of your care plan.
Your provider will help you decide:

• what you want to manage
• what you want support with

This is agreed at the start and reviewed over time.
Even if you self-manage:

• your provider checks in at least once a month
• your care must meet quality standards
• your plan stays active and supported

What can you manage yourself?

Self-management looks different for everyone.
You might choose to manage:

• your support workers
• your service schedule
• how tasks are done
• communication with your care team
• your appointments

Everything is written into your care plan so everyone is clear.

What about care management?

Care management is still paid to your provider, even if you self-manage.
This covers the work your provider does to:

• keep your care safe
• update your plan
• meet regulations

Under the Support at Home program, 10% of your budget is set aside for care management, and your provider must check in with you regularly. This includes maintaining safety, quality, and compliance.

Can you use your own support workers?

Self-management can allow you to work with people you already know, such as:

• a cleaner
• a gardener
• a personal care worker

Your provider is responsible for the safety and quality of the services provided by the worker, so they must approve the workers you request. If you have specific workers you want to deliver your services it’s best to talk about this early so everything is set up properly.

Costs and considerations

Self-management does not remove provider involvement.
Care management is still included in your plan, and provider fees may apply depending on your setup.

Pros and considerations

Benefits

• increased control and flexibility of your services
• increased choice of your own support workers
• possible lower service fees

Things to consider

• your responsibility and time to manage your services, including budget management
• your responsibility for coordination of services, including managing worker absences
• your provider can only use support workers who meet all safety and quality requirements

Self-management may suit you if you:

• feel confident coordinating your own services
• want a high degree of flexibility
• have time to take on administrative tasks

If not, your provider can manage your package and services for you.
There is no right or wrong choice. It depends on what works best for you.

Understanding your options is the first step.

While Kirinari doesn’t currently offer self-management for Support at Home participants, we can help you understand which management option is right for you.  

Kirinari provides full management for Support at Home participants via our dedicated team of Care Partners.

If you choose to partner with Kirinari, you will be matched with a dedicated care team who will:

• oversee all aspects of your support; while ensuring you maintain choice and control
• take care of the paperwork, budgeting and compliance.

You can find out more about Kirinari’s home care services here.

To find out more about Support at Home with Kirinari, get in touch today with our team or call 1300 547 462

The post Support at Home self-management explained: how it works and who it’s for appeared first on Kirinari.

• Community transport is a specialised door-to-door service for people who cannot easily use regular public transport due to age, disability, health conditions, or limited access to transport options.
• Community  transport services are available for seniors with limited mobility, people living with disability or health conditions, and those living in areas without adequate public or private transport.
• Community transport for people living with disability includes individual one-on-one services, group transport for social outings, and spacious buses with wheelchair accessibility.
• Kirinari provides community transport with familiar drivers, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and flexible booking to help people access appointments, shops, and social activities in their community.

Summary:

Community transport helps older people, individuals living with disability, and people who are transport disadvantaged travel safely to appointments, shops, and social activities. These transport services provide door-to-door support for those who cannot access standard transport options. Community transport promotes independence, confidence, and connection to everyday life.

Outline:

1. Introduction
2. What Is Community Transport?
3. Who Can Use Community Transport Services?
4. What Are the Different Types of Community Transport Services?
5. Access Community Transport with Kirinari Today

Getting out and about is an important part of life. It helps us attend appointments, shop for essentials, and spend time with the people who matter most. Community transport makes this possible for people who cannot easily use regular transport. 

Kirinari believes that everyone deserves the chance to live independently and participate fully in their community. That’s why our community transport services make that possible by providing safe and reliable transport with caring drivers who understand your needs.

What Is Community Transport?

Community transport is a special service for people who find regular transport difficult to use. It’s designed for those who can’t easily catch a bus or train because of age, disability, health conditions, or living in areas with limited public transport.

Unlike regular public transport, community transport offers door-to-door service. A driver picks you up from home and takes you safely to your destination. You’re not just getting from one place to another, you’re staying connected to your community with support that respects your dignity and independence.

Community transport is run by caring organisations like Kirinari with trained support workers who understand that getting around means more than just travel. It means staying active, independent, and connected to the life you want to live.

Who Can Use Community Transport Services?

Community transport services are available to people who need support to travel safely. You may be eligible if you:

• Are an older person with limited mobility
• Live with disability or ongoing health concerns
• Do not have access to private transport
• Live in an area with limited public transport

Disability transport services provide practical support that helps people attend medical appointments, go shopping, visit friends, and take part in community activities. Community transport for people living with disability includes vehicles with wheelchair access and drivers trained to provide the assistance you need.

What Are the Different Types of Community Transport Services?

Community transport comes in different forms to match different needs. These include: 

Individual Transport

One-on-one service where a driver picks you up and takes you directly to your destination. This option is perfect for:

• Medical appointments
• Personal errands
• Shopping trips
• Visiting family or friends

You get personalised attention and support throughout your journey.

Group Transport

Travel with others who are heading to similar places. Group transport is ideal for:

• Social outings
• Community programs
• Shopping centres
• Group activities

It’s a great way to meet people and feel less isolated while getting where you need to go.

Community Bus Services

Scheduled routes that run regularly to common destinations like shopping centres, medical facilities, and community hubs. These services offer:

• Predictable schedules you can plan around
• Regular connections to your local area
• Reliable transport you can count on each week

Many community buses have wheelchair access and space for mobility aids, making them accessible for everyone.

Access Community Transport with Kirinari Today

Community transport helps you stay connected to the services and people that matter most. It supports independence, builds confidence, and keeps you engaged in your community.

At Kirinari, we make it easy to get out and about with familiar, friendly drivers who bring you right to your door. Our transport services can take you to medical appointments, the shops, social activities, or anywhere else you need to go in your community.

If you would like to learn more or book community transport support, contact Kirinari today. We are here to help you get where you need to go, safely and comfortably.

The post Understanding Community Transport: Your Guide to Getting Around appeared first on Kirinari.

Kirinari has have made a submission to the Senate Committee Inquiry into The Transition of the Commonwealth Home Support Program to the Support at Home Program.

As Australia’s largest regional provider of human services, we see every day that delivering care in the regions is different.

Travel distances, thin markets and workforce pressures mean regional providers simply can’t match an hour of care to an hour of funding under metropolitan‑designed models.

Policy designed in the cities must not forget the realities of the regions. Kirinari will continue to advocate for models that ensure regional Australians are not left behind simply because of where they live.

Our submission highlighted these challenges, with case studies on our experience of the Support at Home Program.

This can be read in full on the Committee webpage: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Community_Affairs/CHSPTransition/Submissions

The post Senate Inquiry into the Transition to Support at Home appeared first on Kirinari.

• Commonwealth Home Support Programme services provide low-level support for older people who need occasional help.
• The Support at Home program for aged care offers coordinated and ongoing care for people with more complex needs.
• CHSP providers often act as a starting point, with people moving to Support at Home as their needs grow.
• Both programs require an assessment through My Aged Care to determine eligibility and the right level of support.

Summary:

The Support at Home program for aged care and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme both help older Australians stay at home, but they are designed for different levels of support. CHSP offers basic, low-level help for people who are mostly independent, while the Support at Home program provides more structured and ongoing care for those with higher or more complex needs. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right support and plan for future care.

Outline:

1. Introduction
2. Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
3. Support at Home
4. How CHSP and Support at Home work together
5. Important to know
6. How to access CHSP and Support at Home Services
7. We’re here to help

Although the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Support at Home both provide essential supports for older Australians, there are differences between the two programs. While CHSP is ideal for those who need a little bit of help now and then, Support at Home is a comprehensive home care program designed for people who need regular, coordinated support so they can live safely and well at home.

To help you understand which option might be right for you, we’ve outlined the key differences below.

Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)

CHSP is for older people who are mostly managing on their own but may need a little help with everyday tasks.

Key Features

• Provides basic assistance
• Usually one or two services per week
• Supports independence and reablement, which means doing things with you, not for you
• You can use different providers for different types of services
• Services are subsidised, with customers contributing to the cost of each service

Services include things like:

• Cleaning or laundry
• Meals or meal delivery
• Transport to appointments
• Social activities or companionship
• Small jobs around the house

CHSP might suit you if:

• You only need one or two types of help
• You are generally independent
• You only need support occasionally, not every day

In summary

CHSP is ideal for those who might just need one or two hours of support each week. If you’re finding everyday tasks more difficult and think some low-level support might increase your health, well-being and independence, CHSP might be a good fit for you.

Support at Home

Support at Home is for older people who need regular, coordinated help to live safely and well at home.

Key features

• Replaced Home Care Packages and Short Term Restorative Care on 1 November 2025
• Designed for ongoing or complex support needs
• Services fall under three main categories: Clinical Care, Independence, and Everyday Living
• Uses eight funding classifications (or levels)
• Provides a planned budget, so your services are organised together in one place.
• Includes care management, capped at 10% of the budget
• Funding is more flexible and needs-based
• Has a stronger focus on transparency and quality

Services include things like:

• Personal care (showering, dressing)
• Help around the home
• Nursing or allied health
• Transport and respite care
• Equipment or home modifications
• Short-term pathways such as restorative care and end-of-life care

Support at Home might suit you if:

• Need help with several different things
• Need support regularly
• Have more complex health or care needs

How CHSP and Support at Home work together

• CHSP operates alongside Support at Home for people with low needs
• CHSP often acts as an entry point for home care services
• If a person’s needs increase, they can be reassessed for Support at Home

Important to know

• Both programs are government-funded
• An assessment will help decide which program is right for you
• CHSP will continue for now, but it is expected to transition into Support at Home in 2027.

How to access CHSP and Support at Home Services

To be eligible, you must be aged:

• 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people), or
• 50 years or older (45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people), on a low income and homeless, or at risk of being homeless.

If you are eligible, the first thing you need to do is arrange for an assessment through My Aged Care. This will determine the type and level of support that is best suited to meet your support needs.

We’re here to help

Choosing between programs can feel confusing, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. At Kirinari, we offer both CHSP and Support at Home program services across regional communities.

Our team takes the time to understand your needs, explain your options in plain language, and guide you through every step, from your My Aged Care assessment to setting up the right supports. If you need a little help now or more regular care, we’re here to make the process simple and supportive.

Kirinari provides both CHSP and Support at Home services across regional Australia. To find out more, contact our experienced team today by calling 1300 547 462.

The post Support at Home vs. Commonwealth Home Support Programme – which is better for me? appeared first on Kirinari.

• Speech pathology for children supports speech, language, and social communication development at every stage.
• Early signs such as delayed speech, unclear sounds, or difficulty following instructions may signal the need for NDIS speech pathology support.
• Seeking help early can improve confidence, learning, and everyday communication outcomes for children.
• Kirinari’s NDIS speech pathology providers offer personalised speech pathology treatment that supports both children and families.

Summary:

Speech pathology plays an important role in helping children develop communication skills, confidence, and connection with others. This guide helps parents and carers recognise common signs that may indicate a child could benefit from kids speech pathology or NDIS speech therapy, from delayed milestones to social communication challenges. It also explains how Kirinari’s speech pathology services can support children and families with tailored, neuroaffirming care, which means they’re designed to acknowledge and support people with conditions like autism and ADHD.

Outline:

1. Introduction
2. What Is Speech Pathology?
3. Understanding Common Speech Problems
4. Key Signs It’s Time to See a Speech Pathologist
5. Is Your Child Showing Signs of Speech Delay? How Kirinari Can Support Your Child

As a parent or carer, watching your child grow and develop is one of life’s greatest joys. But sometimes, you might notice they’re finding it harder to express themselves or connect with others through words. If you’ve been wondering when to reach out for support, you’re not alone. Many families ask themselves this same question.

Speech pathology plays a vital role in helping children build confidence in communication. At Kirinari, we understand that every child’s journey is unique, and we’re here to walk alongside your family when you need us most. Our team of caring professionals provides kids speech pathology services designed to help your child find their voice and thrive.

What Is Speech Pathology?

Speech pathology is a type of therapy that focuses on supporting people who find communication, speech, language, or swallowing challenging. 

For children, paediatric speech pathologists help with things like expanding vocabulary, speaking clearly, following directions, and navigating social situations. Through kids speech pathology, children are supported to express their thoughts, needs, and ideas in ways that work best for them.

Understanding Common Speech Problems

Speech problems include any difficulty with the voice, language or swallowing. These may arise due to developmental delays or differences. However, they can also be the result of trauma or other health conditions that impact the use of the tongue, lips, jaw or throat.

There are various common speech disorders that both children and adults may experience, all of which can be supported with the help of a paediatric speech pathologist. To get a thorough diagnosis and treatment plan, it’s best to seek the help of a qualified professional who specialises in speech pathology for kids.

Key Signs It’s Time to See a Speech Pathologist

Every child develops at their own pace, but when it comes to communication, it can be hard to know if your child’s progress is on track. 

If you’re worried your child isn’t hitting the milestones, or if something feels off, it’s worth getting professional advice. Here are some common signs that it might be time to consult a speech pathology services provider:

Speech and Language Development Delays

• Little or no babbling by around 12 months
• Few or no spoken words by 18 months
• Difficulty putting words together or a very small vocabulary by age 2

Difficulty Being Understood

• Ongoing trouble producing certain sounds past age 3
• Speech that is hard for people outside the family to understand by age 4
• Constantly substituting the sounds of words or letters (for example, “rabbit” becomes “wabbit”)

Fluency and Flow of Speech

• Repeating parts of words or stuttering when talking
• Avoiding talking or feeling frustrated when trying to speak

Social Communication Issues

• Having a hard time maintaining eye contact or taking part in conversations
• Difficulty reading facial expressions, gestures, or body language
• Limited interest in interacting with others through speech

Understanding and Following Directions

• Struggling to follow simple instructions by age 2
• Difficulty learning early concepts like colours, shapes, or basic questions by age 3

Changes in Communication Skills

• Losing words or skills your child previously learned
• Speaking less or withdrawing from communication over time

Concerns Raised by Others

• Educators or carers noticing communication challenges
• Difficulty participating in group activities due to speech or language issues

If something does not feel right, trusting your instincts and seeking guidance early can make a positive difference.

Is Your Child Showing Signs of Speech Delay? How Kirinari Can Help

Kirinari offers supportive, neuroaffirming speech pathology services for children aged 18 months to 18 years. Our speech pathologists work closely with families to build practical strategies that support communication at home, school, and in the community.

We support children through a range of communication approaches, including:

• Verbal language development
  Helping children learn how to use and understand words and sentences to communicate

• Gestures and signing
  Communicating and expressing needs through the use of natural body movements, hand gestures, or sign language

• Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
  The use of methods and tools that can support or replace speech for individuals with severe communication problems, like picture boards, tablets, and speech generation devices

• Social communication support
  Recognising and understanding non-verbal cues to help people use language effectively in social settings

As experienced NDIS speech pathology providers, we deliver NDIS speech therapy that is personalised, respectful, and focused on meaningful outcomes. Our goal is to help your child feel understood, confident, and supported in everyday life.

If you would like to learn more about our speech pathology services or explore NDIS speech pathology options for your child, we invite you to reach out to Kirinari. 

Our team is here to listen, guide, and support your family every step of the way.

The post Early Signs Your Child May Benefit from Speech Pathology appeared first on Kirinari.

• Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) provides purpose-built housing for people with very high support needs, with features designed for safety and accessibility.
• Supported Independent Living (SIL) focuses on daily support inside the home, helping participants build skills through shared or individual sil SIL accommodation.
• Short and Medium-Term Accommodation (STA and MTA) offer flexible NDIS STA and temporary housing while participants rest, transition, or wait for permanent homes.
• Choosing the right NDIS housing option depends on your support needs, living preferences, and long-term goals, with guidance available from experienced providers like Kirinari.

Summary:

The NDIS offers  a range of housing solutions to help participants live independently and safely, including Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), Supported Independent Living (SIL), and Short-Term/Medium-Term Accommodation (STA/MTA). SDA housing provides specially designed properties with accessibility features, while a SIL provider delivers daily living support in shared or individual homes. NDIS short and medium term accommodation (STA/MTA) offer temporary housing solutions for respite or transitional periods, giving participants flexibility and continuity of care.

Outline:

1. Introduction
2. What Is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?
3. What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?
4. What Is Short-Term and Medium-Term Accommodation (STA & MTA)?
5. Choosing the Right NDIS Housing Option for Your Needs
6. Finding the Right Home and Support with Kirinari

Finding the right place to call home is an important step towards living a good life – the life you want. Under the NDIS, housing supports exist to help people live safely, build independence, and stay connected to their community.

From long-term accomodation to short stays during times of change, each option is designed to support different needs and goals.

This guide explains the main NDIS housing options and how Kirinari can help you choose which one is right for you or your loved one.

What Is Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)?

Specialist Disability Accommodation, often called SDA accommodation, is designed for people with very high support needs or significant functional disability. These homes are built with accessibility, safety, and comfort in mind.

SDA housing NDIS properties may include:

• Step-free access and wider doorways
• Smart home technology
• Strong structures to support specialised equipment

There are different SDA design types, such as Fully Accessible, High Physical Support, and Improved Liveability. Each offers features to suit different needs and preferences.

SDA funding covers the cost of the home itself. But, daily support inside the home is funded separately through other NDIS supports.

What Is Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) focuses on the support you receive in your home, not the building itself. SIL helps people manage daily life while building skills and confidence over time.

Support from a SIL provider can include:

• Preparing meals
• Cleaning and home care
• Medication support
• Learning everyday life skills

SIL accommodation is often shared with others, but it can also be arranged if you live on your own or with family. People who need specialised housing and daily support can receive both SIL and SDA funding.

What Is Short-Term and Medium-Term Accommodation (STA & MTA)?

Short and Medium-Term Accommodation gives you a safe, supported place to stay during times of change or transition. These options offer flexibility, continuity of care, and peace of mind while longer-term housing or daily living supports are being arranged.

Short-Term Accommodation (STA)

STA, sometimes known as respite care, provides temporary housing and support. It’s a helpful option if you want to give your primary caregivers a short break, your family needs time to recharge, or you would like to try living more independently.

NDIS short term accommodation usually includes:

• A furnished place to stay
• Meals and daily support
• Opportunities to join community activities

NDIS STA funding is generally available for up to 28 days per year and can be used all at once or spread across the year.

Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA)

MTA is like STA, but provides longer accommodation. It offers housing for up to 90 days while you wait for a long-term home, such as SIL or SDA, to become available.

MTA may be suitable if:

• Your long-term housing has been approved, but is not ready yet
• You do not have a safe place to stay during the transition
• You are being discharged from the hospital or another care setting

Choosing the Right NDIS Housing Option for You

Choosing the right housing support starts with understanding your needs and goals. It can help to think about:

• How much daily support you need
• How you prefer to live, such as shared or on your own
• If you need short-term support or a long-term home
• What helps you feel confident and secure

You don’t have to worry about working this out by yourself. Support Coordinators, Local Area Coordinators, and disability support services can guide you through your options and help align them with your NDIS plan.

Finding the Right Home and Support with Kirinari

We believe everyone deserves a home where they feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow. That’s why our accommodation and housing services are designed to help you build independence, develop new skills, and stay connected to your local community.

We offer:

• Supported Independent Living: Practical daily support to help you live confidently at home
• Specialist Disability Accommodation: Purpose-built homes that are secure, comfortable, and suited to complex needs
• Short and Medium Term Accommodation: Flexible options that support change, rest, and smooth transitions

If you would like to explore your options or view current vacancies, our team is here to help. Reach out to Kirinari today and let’s talk about what home can look like for you.

The post Finding Your Home: A Complete Guide to NDIS Housing Supports appeared first on Kirinari.

• The Support at Home program is designed to simplify and improve aged care services in Australia.
• It replaces the Home Care Package and Short-Term Restorative Care programs as part of broader reforms.
• The Commonwealth Home Support Programme will transition into Support at Home by 2027.
• A new Aged Care Act introduces stronger rights, standards, and protections for older Australians.

Summary:

The Support at Home program for aged care is a new initiative introduced in November 2025 to make services simpler and more sustainable. It replaces existing programs like Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care, with more changes planned in the coming years. Alongside this, a new Aged Care Act strengthens the rights of older Australians and improves quality and safety across services.

On 1 November 2025 the Australian Government introduced Support at Home, a new program that aims to simplify and ensure the ongoing sustainability of aged care services.

It replaces the old Home Care Package program and Short-Term Restorative Care. This is the first step in a major reform, with the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) also set to join Support at Home in 2027.

A new Aged Care Act also started on 1 November 2025. It replaces outdated laws and delivers key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The new Act includes:

• A Statement of Rights for older Australians
• Stronger quality standards
• Better regulation and complaints processes

At Kirinari, we understand that navigating the transition to Support at Home may be confusing. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you access the information you need to make informed decisions about your care.

You can view the FAQ’s below or download your own copy here.

The post Support at Home is Here: Your Top Questions Answered appeared first on Kirinari.