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Navigating the world of aged care can be complex, particularly when it comes to understanding Home Care Packages (HCP). These packages are designed to provide older Australians with the support they need to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible. This blog aims to clarify the different levels of HCP, what each level entails, and how to determine the best fit for you or your loved ones.
What are Home Care Packages?
Home Care Packages or HCP are government-subsidised packages of care services tailored to meet the individual needs of older Australians. These packages are part of the Australian Government's initiative to help seniors stay in their homes rather than moving to residential care. For a detailed explanation, check out our previous blog on What is a Home Care Package. The services included can range from help with daily activities to more complex health care needs.
The Four Levels of Home Care Packages
Home Care Packages are categorised into four levels, home care packages level 1-4, each offering a different subsidy amount and range of services. These levels are designed to match the varying care needs of individuals, from basic support to high-level care.
Level 1: Basic Care Needs (ACAT level 1 required)
Service | Description |
Funding/Subsidy Amount | Up to $10,588.65 per year |
Intended For | Individuals with basic care needs |
Hours of Service | Approximately 2-3 hours per week |
Domestic Assistance | Light housekeeping tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and basic home maintenance |
Social Support | Assistance with social activities, ensuring the individual stays connected with their community |
Meal Preparation | Help with planning and preparing meals |
Shopping | Assistance with grocery shopping and other errands |
Transport | Transport to medical appointments and social engagements |
Personal Care | Help with daily personal tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming |
Level 2: Low-Level Care Needs (ACAT level 2 required)
Service | Description |
Funding/Subsidy Amount | Up to $18,622.30 per year |
Intended For | Individuals with low care needs |
Hours of Service | Approximately 3-4 hours per week |
Domestic Assistance | Light housekeeping tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and basic home maintenance |
Social Support | Assistance with social activities, ensuring the individual stays connected with their community |
Meal Preparation | Help with planning and preparing meals |
Shopping | Assistance with grocery shopping and other errands |
Transport | Transport to medical appointments and social engagements |
Personal Care | Help with daily personal tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming |
Increased Personal Care | More frequent assistance with personal tasks |
Home and Garden Maintenance | Light maintenance tasks to ensure safety and comfort at home |
Some Nursing Care | Basic medical care such as wound dressing and medication assistance |
You can learn in detail about home care package level 2 here.
Level 3: Intermediate Care Needs (ACAT level 3 required)
Service | Description |
Funding/Subsidy Amount | Up to $40,529.60 per year |
Intended For | Individuals with intermediate care needs |
Hours of Service | Approximately 7-9 hours per week |
Domestic Assistance | Light housekeeping tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and basic home maintenance |
Social Support | Assistance with social activities, ensuring the individual stays connected with their community |
Meal Preparation | Help with planning and preparing meals |
Shopping | Assistance with grocery shopping and other errands |
Transport | Transport to medical appointments and social engagements |
Personal Care | Help with daily personal tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming |
Medication Management | Ensuring proper medication administration and monitoring |
Allied Health Support | Access to professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and dietitians |
Aids and Appliances | Assistance with purchasing and using aids like walkers, shower chairs, and other mobility aids |
More Comprehensive Personal Care | Extensive support with daily living activities |
You can learn in detail about home care package level 3 and level 3 home care package funding here.
Level 4: High-Level Care Needs (ACAT level 4 required)
Service | Description |
Funding/Subsidy Amount | Up to $61,440.45 per year |
Intended For | Individuals with high-level care needs |
Hours of Service | Approximately 10-13 hours per week |
Domestic Assistance | Light housekeeping tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and basic home maintenance |
Social Support | Assistance with social activities, ensuring the individual stays connected with their community |
Meal Preparation | Help with planning and preparing meals |
Shopping | Assistance with grocery shopping and other errands |
Transport | Transport to medical appointments and social engagements |
Personal Care | Help with daily personal tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming |
Medication Management | Ensuring proper medication administration and monitoring |
Allied Health Support | Access to professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and dietitians |
Aids and Appliances | Assistance with purchasing and using aids like walkers, shower chairs, and other mobility aids |
Extensive Personal Care | Intensive support with all aspects of daily living |
Advanced Nursing Care | Regular medical care, including complex wound care, injections, and health monitoring |
Specialist Health Services | Access to a broader range of health professionals for conditions like dementia or Parkinson’s disease |
Social and Emotional Support | Intensive support to address mental health and emotional well-being |
You can learn in detail about home care package level 4 here.
Determining the Right HCP Level
Selecting the appropriate HCP level depends on the specific needs of the individual. An assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) is required to determine eligibility and the suitable assessment level of care, known as "ACAT Assessment Levels". The assessment considers various factors, including health status, daily living activities, and overall well-being. For a comprehensive guide on ACAT assessments, refer to our ACAT Assessment Guide.
For more information on Home Care Package eligibility, visit our Home Care Package Eligibility blog.
Home Care Package Fees
Home care packages Level 1-4 receive different fundings, however the home care package fees is the usually the same company with one provider. Fees rate from 19-35%. My Companionship is widely recognised as one of the cheapest yet of the highest quality home care provider in Australia with a fixed fee of 20%.
Maximising Your Home Care Package
Once approved for an HCP, it's crucial to make the most of the available funding. Working with a trusted provider like My Companionship can help tailor the services to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the best possible care and support. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your care plan can also ensure that it continues to meet your evolving needs.
For additional resources and support, visit My Companionship, where we are committed to providing high-quality home care tailored to your needs.
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