It can be difficult to know the differences between the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and Home Care Packages. Rest assured though, we want to put your mind at ease by explaining both of them to you so you can understand the differences and when each of them are typically available.

Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP):

The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) is an initiative providing extra assistance around the home, including a wide range of services which can be tailored to your individual requirements. Support is available with services including house cleaning, home maintenance services, social support and personal care. Some of the situations where you might like to consider CHSP include if you have experienced the following:

– noticed that memory has become a bit challenging
– reduced mobility
– been diagnosed with a medical condition
– family care arrangements have altered.

In the situation where you think CHSP may be the best option for yourself or a loved one, you can check out whether you are eligible right here. To arrange and assessment and check eligibility, you can call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 and the contact centre may then arrange a home support assessment to determine suitable help for your needs. You can also apply online.

Home Care Packages:

Home Care Packages provide assistance within the home where it is needed for many everyday tasks, as well as situations in which the needs of the person needing the help become intense or complex. Typically, home care packages will be provided where the individual has needs which are beyond those that are provided through CHSP.

Support is available with services including bathing, hygiene and grooming, nursing, personal care services which relate to health and mobility, meals and food preparation, cleaning and laundry, transport and many more!

The package levels for Home Care Packages can be found right here: The package level assigned to you is based on your needs.

Package level Level of care needs
Level 1 Basic care needs – $9,026.45 a year
Level 2 Low care needs – $15,877.50 a year
Level 3 Intermediate care needs – $34,550.90 a year
Level 4 High care needs – $52,377.50 a year

The application process for home care packages is done through My Aged Care right here (link to https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment/apply-online). It will take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete and you will need your medicare card to complete it.

If you get stuck with working out which option is the most appropriate for your individual circumstances, or simply have a question that we can assist you with, then you are welcome to contact us for support and guidance via 1300 773 202. Our friendly team are here to support you