How to Apply for the Support at Home Program | Step-by-Step Guide
4 August 2026
Key Points
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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