Calls are intensifying in parliament for the federal government to release more home care packages ahead of the delayed rollout of the Support at Home program.
Independent Senator David Pocock has urged the release of 20,000 additional packages under the National Priority System before 1 November, when the new program is scheduled to commence. His motion, backed by both the Opposition and the Greens, comes amid concern that older Australians are being left waiting without essential support.
Senator Anne Ruston, speaking for the Opposition, proposed further amendments that would see tens of thousands of home support places allocated by 2025–26, along with greater clarity around program timelines and workforce planning. She also called for the immediate release of the Support at Home manual and more consultation on care management fees.
The Greens’ Senator Penny Allman-Payne echoed the urgency, stressing that many older people are struggling, and in some cases dying, while waiting for care. “Everyone in the community agrees that older people deserve to be cared for, yet Labour still cannot get its act together,” she told the Senate.
With Support at Home now just weeks away, sector leaders are urging the government to act quickly to ease pressure on families, providers, and the aged care system.At CareVision, we understand how vital timely home care is. Our platform is designed to help providers prepare for Support at Home by simplifying compliance, streamlining care coordination, and giving older Australians the support they deserve—ready to go when the new program begins.