Support at Home vs. Commonwealth Home Support Programme – which is better for me?
February 1, 2026
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
If you have any questions about CHSP or the Support at Home programme, or if you need help navigating My Aged Care and the assessment process, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
You can talk to one of our experienced team members by calling 1300 547 462.
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