Australia's aged care system is changing. From November 1, 2025 the Support at Home program will replace Home Care Packages - and many people are wondering what this really means for them. This short, easy-to-follow course explains the new Support at Home program in plain English. You'll learn what's changing, what's staying the same, and how to prepare with confidence. Whether you're receiving care, supporting a loved one, or working in the sector, this course helps you understand your options, rights, and next steps - without the jargon.

Support at Home: What it Means for You

Course Description

Australia’s aged care system is changing. From 1 November 2025, the new Support at Home program will replace the current Home Care Packages system, and many older Australians, families, and workers are asking what this really means in practical terms. 

This short, easy-to-follow course explains the changes in clear, plain English, helping you understand what is happening and why.

Whether you are receiving care, supporting a loved one, or working in aged care, this session provides practical guidance so you can navigate the transition with confidence. 

You’ll learn what will change, what will remain the same, how funding and services will work, and what steps you can take now to prepare. 

The focus is on clarity, reassurance, and empowering you to make informed decisions.

Course Structure

The course begins with an overview of why Australia’s aged care system is being reformed and what the new Support at Home program is designed to achieve. 

Participants will explore the key differences between Support at Home and the existing Home Care Packages system, including important dates and how the transition will occur.

The session then moves into the practical realities of the new program including who it applies to, what happens to existing package holders, and what new applicants can expect. 

Services, funding categories, and co-contributions are explained in straightforward terms. 

Participants will also learn about assessments, provider choice, rights and responsibilities, and what “person-centred care” means in practice. 

The course concludes with practical preparation tips, key questions to ask providers, and trusted sources of information for ongoing support.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Explain what the Support at Home program is and why it is being introduced
• Identify the key differences between Support at Home and Home Care Packages
• Understand how services, funding categories, and co-contributions will operate
• Recognise their rights, choices, and responsibilities under the new system
• Identify what steps to take to prepare for the transition
• Feel more confident navigating aged care changes and asking informed questions.

Your tutor is The Catalyst Foundation

The Catalyst Foundation have been teaching at WEA since 2026

Catalyst Foundation is an inclusive, independent and charitable not-for-profit organisation.

As a leading provider of information for older people, communities and the care sector in South Australia, we empower individuals to make informed decisions about ageing well through trusted information, support and service connections.

Established in 1994 as the Seniors Information Service, we became Catalyst Foundation in 2016 to reflect our expanded services, diverse communities and commitment to creating positive change.