The 2026–27 Federal Budget includes an additional $3.7 billion investment into aged care, with funding aimed at improving affordability and access to in-home support services. While sector organisations welcomed several measures, many stakeholders say further investment is still needed to address growing demand for care at home.
Part of the funding will support refinements to the Support at Home (SaH) program, including expanded end-of-life care pathways, assessment improvements and reduced out-of-pocket costs for some personal care services. The government also announced efforts to accelerate the release of Support at Home places.
Despite these measures, aged care groups and advocacy organisations raised concerns about ongoing wait times for assessments and home care packages. Industry representatives warned that demand continues to outpace available support, placing pressure on older Australians, providers and the broader healthcare system.
Stakeholders across the sector continue to call for increased investment in home care services to help older Australians maintain independence and access support earlier within their communities.