Key Points

• From 1 October, the Commonwealth Government will fully subsidise the cost of personal care services like showering and grooming.
• This change will be reflected in your statements and invoices.
• Contributions for other Support at Home services will continue to apply as usual.

Summary

From 1 October 2026, Commonwealth Government will fully subsidise the cost of Support at Home personal care services. We’ve unpacked what’s changing and why it’s good news for consumers.

Outline

• Introduction
• What does this mean?
• What’s changing?
• What’s not changing?
• What happens next?
• Where can I learn more?

From 1 October 2026, the Commonwealth Government will fully subsidise the cost of Support at Home personal care services, with these essential supports moving from the Independence contributions category to the Clinical Supports contributions category.

This change will help to make essential home care services more affordable, which is great news for consumers.

What does this mean?

This means that you won’t be asked to contribute to the cost of services like:

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

What’s changing?

From 1 October 2026, you’ll no longer pay contributions for any approved personal care services, and this change will be reflected in your statements and invoices.

What’s not changing?

• If you currently receive personal care services through Support at Home, these services will continue to be provided as usual.
• The types of personal care services you can receive will not change.
• Your eligibility for personal care services will not change – so if you have been assessed and approved for personal care services, you won’t need to be reassessed.
• Your contribution for other Support at Home services will not change and will continue to apply as usual.
• The level of care you receive will not be reduced or limited by this change.

What happens next?

You don’t need to do anything.

Up until 1 October 2026, contributions for personal care will remain unchanged.

From 1 October 2026, participants will no longer be required to contribute towards the cost of any approved personal care services.

If you’re not currently receiving personal care services, you can rest easy knowing that should your needs change, you’ll be able to access personal care services at no additional cost.

Where can I learn more?

To learn more about the changes, call our friendly team on 1300 547 462.

You can also visit My Aged Care at myagedcare.gov.au

If you wish to discuss updating your care plan and budget, please speak with your Care Partner.

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• The Australian Government has extended CHSP funding, keeping the program standalone until 30 June 2029 instead of moving it into Support at Home as planned.
• Current participants will see no disruption to the services and supports they already receive.
• Ongoing CHSP funding gives greater certainty to participants, families and CHSP providers alike.
• Kirinari remains committed to helping people live well, and encourages anyone with questions to reach out to their Care Partner or call 1300 547 462.

Summary:

The Australian Government has extended CHSP funding, confirming the Commonwealth Home Support Programme will remain a standalone program until 30 June 2029 rather than moving into Support at Home. This means no disruption to current services, with continued certainty for participants, families and CHSP providers. Kirinari welcomes the decision and remains ready to support anyone with questions about their current services.

Outline:

1. CHSP Set to Continue as a Standalone Program
2. What This Means for You
3. We’re Here to Help

CHSP set to continue as a standalone program

The Australian Government has announced that the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) will be extended until 30 June 2029, continuing as a standalone program rather than being incorporated into the Support at Home program from mid-2027 as originally planned.

This announcement recognises the important role CHSP plays in helping older Australians maintain their independence, stay connected to their communities, and continue living safely in their own homes.

At Kirinari we have long advocated for this outcome and welcome the Government’s decision, which provides greater certainty for the more than 830,000 Australians who rely on CHSP services every day.

What This Means for You

If you currently receive support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, you can be confident that:

• CHSP will continue as a standalone program through to 30 June 2029.
• There will be no disruption to the services and supports you currently receive.
• Funding for CHSP services will continue, providing greater certainty for participants, families and service providers.

We’re Here to Help

If you have any questions about this announcement or would like to discuss your current services and supports, please call our friendly team on 1300 547 462 or reach out to your Care Partner.

Kirinari remains committed to supporting you to live well, your way, and we look forward to continuing to deliver the services you rely on now and into the future.

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

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

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• The Support at Home program helps older Australians receive personalised support at home.
• Applying starts with registering through My Aged Care.
• An aged care assessment determines the support you’re eligible to receive.
• Your support plan is tailored to your needs, goals and circumstances.
• Kirinari can help you understand your options and get started.

Summary

Applying for the Support at Home (SaH) program can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding the process makes it much easier. This guide explains who is eligible, how to apply, what happens during your assessment and what to expect once your support plan is approved.

Outline

• What is the Support at Home program?
• Who is eligible for the Support at Home program?
• How to apply for the Support at Home program
• What happens during your aged care assessment?
• What happens after your assessment?
• What does Support at Home look like day to day?
• Frequently asked questions
• How Kirinari can help

The Support at Home program helps older Australians access personalised services so they can continue living safely and independently at home.

If you’re considering applying, understanding the process is the first step. This guide explains how to apply for the Support at Home program, what to expect during your assessment and how services are arranged once you’re approved.

What is the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home program is the Australian Government’s new in-home aged care program, designed to help older Australians live safely and independently at home for longer.

It brings together a range of services to help older people remain independent at home for longer.

Support may include:

• personal care
• domestic assistance
• meal preparation
• transport
• nursing and allied health
• social support
• respite care
• home modifications and assistive technology

Services are based on your individual needs and are tailored through your support plan.

If you’re new to the program, start by reading our guide, Support at Home service list: what’s included and what’s not?. It explains the different services available, what’s covered under the program and how support is tailored to your individual needs.

Who is eligible for the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home program is designed for older Australians who need help to continue living safely and independently at home.

Eligibility is determined through an aged care assessment that looks at:

• your health
• your daily living needs
• your mobility
• your support network
• your goals for remaining independent

The assessment helps determine the level of support that’s right for you.

How to apply for the Support at Home program

Applying usually follows these steps.

Step 1: Register with My Aged Care

Contact My Aged Care online or by phone to begin your application.

Step 2: Complete your aged care assessment

An assessor will meet with you to understand your needs and discuss the support you may benefit from.

Step 3: Receive your assessment outcome

Following your assessment, you’ll be advised of the outcome, including the level of support you’re eligible to receive and the next steps in the process.

Step 4: Choose your provider

Once approved, you can choose an approved provider such as Kirinari to deliver your services.

Step 5: Develop your support plan

Your provider will work with you to create a personalised care plan based on your goals and approved services.

What happens during your aged care assessment?

Your assessment is a conversation about your everyday life.

The assessor may ask about:

• your health
• your mobility
• daily activities
• home environment
• current supports
• future goals

The purpose is to understand the support you need to continue living independently.

What happens after your assessment?

If you’re approved for the Support at Home program, you’ll receive information about the services you’re eligible to access.

You’ll then work with your chosen provider to:

• develop your support plan
• organise services
• schedule appointments
• review your support over time

Your provider will also explain which services are included in your support plan and any participant contributions that may apply.

What does Support at Home look like day to day?

Every person’s support plan is different.

Your services may include:

• personal care
• cleaning
• meal preparation
• transport
• social support
• nursing
• allied health
• home maintenance

Your services can change over time as your needs change.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to apply through My Aged Care?

Yes. My Aged Care is the starting point for accessing Australian Government funded aged care services.

How long does the Support at Home (SAH) application process take?

Timeframes vary depending on assessment availability and your individual circumstances. Your provider can also help you understand the next steps once your assessment has been completed.

Can I choose my own provider?

Yes. Once approved, you can choose an approved provider that best meets your needs.

How Kirinari can help

Applying for the Support at Home program can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.

At Kirinari, we can help you:

• understand the application process
• prepare for your assessment
• explain your support options
• develop a personalised care plan
• coordinate services as your needs change

You can also learn more about Kirinari’s In-Home Care services and how we support older Australians to live independently at home.

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

The post How to Apply for the Support at Home (SaH) Program | Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Kirinari.

• The Support at Home program helps older Australians stay safe and independent at home
• Services are grouped into clinical supports, independence services and everyday living
• Some everyday costs, like groceries, rent and bills, are not included
• Personal care will move to clinical supports from October 2026
• Understanding your rights can help you make informed choices about your care

Summary

The Support at Home program provides services to help older Australians live safely and independently at home. This guide explains what is included, what is not covered, and how the service list is structured across clinical supports, independence services and everyday living.

Outline

• What is the Support at Home program?
• Support at Home service list at a glance
• Clinical supports: what’s included and what’s not
• Independence services: what’s included and what’s not
• Everyday living: what’s included and what’s not
• Understanding your rights
• How Kirinari can help

The Support at Home program is designed to help older Australians live safely and independently at home.

It brings in-home aged care services together under one program. This can make it easier to understand what support is available and how it fits your needs.

Understanding the Support at Home program inclusions and exclusions can help you plan your care with more confidence.

What is the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home program provides funding for services that help you stay well, safe and independent at home.

Your services are based on your needs, goals and care plan. This means your support should be tailored to your daily life, not treated as one-size-fits-all.

The new aged care system also places more focus on rights, choice and safe care. This means older people should have a say in the services they use, how they access them and who provides them.

Support at Home service list at a glance

The Support at Home service list is grouped into three main contribution categories:

• clinical supports
• independence services
• everyday living

Across these categories, the service list includes 14 service types and 49 services.

Each service type explains what is in scope and what is out of scope. This helps you understand what may be funded and what you may need to pay for yourself.

Clinical supports: what’s included and what’s not

Clinical supports are services that help maintain or improve your health, function and wellbeing.

These may include:

• nursing care
• allied health and therapy
• nutrition support
• restorative care management

These services must be delivered or supervised by trained health professionals where required.

Clinical support may include help with wound care, medication support, continence care, allied health treatment, care planning and service coordination.

They do not usually include services that are better funded through another system, such as hospital care, medical treatment, dental care or some specialist health services.

From October 2026, personal care will move from the independence category to the clinical supports category. This means approved personal care services, such as help with showering, dressing and non-clinical continence support, can be delivered with no out-of-pocket cost where funding is available.

Independence services: what’s included and what’s not

Independence services help you manage daily life and stay connected to your community.

These may include:

• personal care
• social support
• community engagement
• cultural support
• digital support
• transport
• respite
• assistive technology
• home modifications

These services can help with everyday activities such as attending appointments, staying socially connected, using technology, accessing the community and maintaining independence.

Some costs are not included. This may include activity fees, tickets, accommodation, membership fees, car costs, licence costs, public transport fares or holiday travel.

Everyday living: what’s included and what’s not

Everyday living services help keep your home safe, clean and liveable.

These may include:

• domestic assistance
• laundry
• shopping assistance
• light gardening
• minor home maintenance
• meal preparation
• meal delivery

For example, domestic assistance may include light cleaning, washing dishes, laundry or accompanied shopping.

Home maintenance may include light gardening or small repairs that help keep your home safe. Meals may include support to prepare food at home or access pre-prepared meals.

The program does not cover general living expenses. This can include:

• rent or mortgage payments
• utility bills
• groceries and ingredients
• takeaway food delivery
• pet care
• professional cleaning or gardening that would usually be paid for privately

Understanding your rights

Under the new Aged Care Act, older people have rights when accessing aged care services.

These include the right to:

• make decisions about your care
• receive safe and quality services
• be treated with dignity and respect
• access information in a way you understand
• raise concerns or make a complaint without fear
• stay connected to important people, pets, culture and community

You also have the right to understand what your services cost and how your care is delivered.

If you have a concern, you can speak with your provider. You can also ask a family member, supporter or advocate to help you raise your concern.

How Kirinari can help

At Kirinari, we support you to understand your options and get the most from your Support at Home plan.

We can help you:

• understand what services may be available
• build a care plan around your needs
• explain what may be covered and what you may need to pay
• coordinate services over time
• adjust support as your needs change
• stay independent and safe 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.

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• The 2026 national Census will take place on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
• The Census is a nationwide survey that counts everyone in Australia and collects information about who we are and how we live.
• It is compulsory to participate in the Census.
• Support to help you understand and complete the Census is available.

Summary

Census night will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026, and everyone in Australia is asked to participate. We’ve taken a closer look at the Census to find out what it is, why it’s important, and how we can make sure we’re counted.

Outline

• Introduction
• What is the Census?
• Why is the Census important?
• How to complete the Census
• What information you’ll need
• Completing a separate Census form
• Support to complete the Census
• Make sure you’re counted!

Introduction

Every five years, Australians are asked to take part in the Census. This is more than just another form to fill out. The Census plays a vital role in shaping the future of all our communities, and with the 2026 Census fast approaching, we thought we should unpack some of the details.

What is the Census?

The Census is a nationwide survey that counts everyone in Australia and collects information about who we are and how we live. It captures details about each of us, our households and dwellings, providing a clear snapshot of the population.

In 2026, Census night will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026, and everyone in Australia on that night must be included in a Census form.

Why is the Census important?

The Census is more than just a data collection exercise—it directly influences decisions that affect our everyday lives. The Information collected helps governments, businesses, and community organisations plan for:

• Transport and roads
• Schools and education services
• Hospitals and healthcare
• Housing and infrastructure
• Local community services

By participating, you help ensure your community receives the services and funding it needs. Participation is also compulsory under the Census and Statistics Act 1905, and you can be fined for failing to take part.

How to complete the Census

From late July 2026, households will receive instructions on how to complete the Census, and if you know where you’ll be on Census night you can complete it straight away.

Most people will:

• Receive a letter with a Census number and temporary password
• Complete the form online

If you would prefer to complete a paper form, you can request one. Some households, especially in regional or remote areas, may automatically be sent paper forms.

In 2026, you can also complete the Census through myGov.

Simply sign in to myGov and subscribe to Census updates. You will then receive a notification in your myGov inbox that will enable you to access the Census online.

Information you’ll need

To complete your Census form, you’ll need details about:

• Everyone staying in your household on Census night including family members, house mates, and visitors
• Children and babies
• Anyone who usually lives there but is away

Information collected includes:

• Basic details (name, age, date of birth)
• Cultural background (ancestry, language, religion)
• Education and employment
• Health and wellbeing
• Housing details (rent, mortgage, vehicles)

Some questions (such as gender and sexual orientation for people aged 16 and over) are optional.

Completing a separate Census form

If you want to fill in your Census separately from your household, you’ll be able to request a Census number so you can complete it online or get a paper form. You can find out more here

Support to complete the Census

The ABS provides a wide range of support to ensure everyone can participate, including:

• Translated materials for culturally and linguistically diverse communities
• Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)
• National Relay Service (NRS) for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Pop-up hubs and help sessions in local communities

For remote Indigenous communities, Census staff will visit between July and September, conducting face-to-face interviews to ensure culturally appropriate participation.

If you need help completing your Census form, visit Help and support | Census Information

Make sure you’re counted!

The Census is a snapshot of Australia that helps shape the future of our country. By completing your Census in 2026, you’re helping build better services, stronger communities, and get a clearer picture of who we are as a nation in 2026.

Don’t forget to complete the Census on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.

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• 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

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• Recent changes to aged care laws have strengthened the rights and protections of older Australians receiving care services.
• The new Statement of Rights supports older people to make their own decisions, be treated with respect, and feel safe.
• Aged care providers must offer clear and accessible ways for people to provide feedback, raise concerns, or make complaints.
• Independent support is available through advocacy organisations and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

Summary: 

Older Australians now have stronger rights and protections under Australia’s updated aged care laws. The new Statement of Rights places choice, dignity, respect, and safety at the centre of aged care in home services. People receiving care are encouraged to speak up about concerns and can access simple complaint processes to help resolve issues. Independent advocacy and regulatory bodies are also available to provide advice, support, and assistance when needed.

Older people now have stronger rights and protections following recent changes to aged care laws in Australia.

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

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• 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. Understanding how it works, and whether it suits your lifestyle, can help you get the most from your Support at Home funding.

What is Support at Home self-management?

Support at Home Self-management gives you more control over your care, the way services are delivered and how your budget is used.

You can:

• choose your support workers
• decide when services happen
• manage how your budget is used
• have more input into the day-to-day running of your care

Your provider still supports you and makes sure your care is safe and high quality. This balance between your independence and your provider’s oversight is central to how Support at Home self-managed arrangements are designed to work.

New to Support at Home? Read our guide on understanding the new Support at Home program today.

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
• how responsibilities will be shared between you and your care team

This is agreed at the start and reviewed over time. Your needs and preferences may change, and your plan can be adjusted to reflect that.

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
• your provider remains responsible for the overall safety and compliance of your services

It is important to know that choosing self-management does not mean you are left to figure things out on your own. Your provider is there to guide you, answer questions, and step in when needed.

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. This written agreement protects both you and your provider, and makes it easier to resolve any questions that arise.

The arrangement is personalised to suit your situation, your capacity, and your goals.

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
• liaise with relevant health and community services on your behalf

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. Even in a support at home self-managed arrangement, care management is a non-negotiable part of the program. It ensures you always have a safety net in place.

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. In some cases, there may be additional onboarding or compliance steps before an existing worker can be formally included in your plan.

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
• the ability to build your care around your own schedule and preferences
• stronger relationships with workers you already know and trust

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
• the administrative load involved, including record keeping and communication with your provider
• the need to stay informed about your funding balance and how it is being used

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
• are comfortable communicating directly with support workers about schedules and expectations
• have a good understanding of, or willingness to learn about, your funding and budget

If not, your provider can manage your package and services for you. A fully managed approach means your provider handles everything, such as from booking workers to monitoring your budget, so you can focus entirely on your wellbeing.

There is no right or wrong choice. It depends on what works best for you. Many people find it helpful to start with a conversation about both options before making a decision.

If you’d like to explore self management Support at Home, our team is here to help you understand your options.

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.

Whether you are interested in a Support at Home self managed plan or prefer a fully managed approach, we’ll find the right fit for you.

You can also explore our frequently asked Support at Home questions to learn more about costs, contributions, and eligibility

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.