Concerns are growing around the federal government’s new Support at Home program, with experts warning the delays and design flaws could leave older Australians vulnerable.
Kathy Eagar, a former adviser to the Aged Care Royal Commission, told a Senate inquiry that the program, set to begin on 1 November, risks increasing demand on already stretched hospitals and aged care facilities. She highlighted that long assessment processes, high consumer co-payments, and limited flexibility in services will raise the risk of falls, medication errors, and malnutrition for older people waiting for care.
Originally due to launch in July, the program replaces existing home care packages. By November, advocates estimate that 100,000 Australians may still be waiting for support, despite the government’s promises to reduce delays to 90 days by 2027—a target that experts say is unlikely given Australia’s ageing population.
The Senate inquiry, led by the Greens’ Penny Allman-Payne, is pushing for more immediate solutions, including the release of additional packages ahead of November. Sector leaders have also raised concerns that changes to residential aged care funding could create a “two-speed system,” disadvantaging people with limited financial means.
Aged Care Minister Sam Rae has defended the program’s delayed rollout, saying the deferral is intended to ensure services are properly prepared. He confirmed that more packages will be released later this year.With Support at Home set to reshape how services are delivered, providers will need the right tools to adapt quickly. CareVision offers an easy-to-use platform that helps streamline compliance, reporting, and care coordination—ensuring organisations are ready to deliver safe, flexible support as the new program comes into effect.