With Aynsley Johnson, Head of Care Services – Burnie Brae
Updated July 2025

Changes are coming to aged care later this year with the launch of the new Support at Home program. To help clear up any confusion, we sat down with Aynsley Johnson, our Head of Care Services, to answer some of the most common questions from our community.

What is Support at Home?

Support at Home is the Australian Government’s upcoming aged care reform, designed to replace the current Home Care Package system. It’s now scheduled to begin on 1 November 2025 (delayed from the original 1 July start).

The goal is to make aged care services simpler, more flexible, and more aligned with your needs — helping you stay safe, comfortable, and independent at home for longer.

Will I lose my Home Care Package?

No, you won’t lose your package. If you're already receiving care through a Home Care Package, it will automatically transition into the new Support at Home system. There’s no need to reapply or worry about a gap in services — the change will be smooth and hassle-free.

Will my costs change?

That depends on when you started receiving care:

• If you started before 12 September 2024, your current fees will stay the same.

• If you begin care after 1 November 2025, there may be new contributions based on your income and assets.

  • Full pensioners will pay the least

  • Self-funded retirees may contribute more

If you'd prefer not to go through income and asset checks, Burnie Brae also offers a private-pay option, allowing you to access services without means testing or additional paperwork.

Will I need to be reassessed?

No. If you already have a Home Care Package, you will not need a new assessment. Your care will transition seamlessly to the new system on 1 November 2025.

However, there will be some changes in how services are funded. Certain items, such as:

• Assistive technology (e.g. walkers, rails)

• Home modifications

• End-of-life care

will be funded separately, meaning they won’t come out of your regular care budget.

What’s changing in the services I can access?

Support at Home will introduce a clearer, standardised list of services, so you'll know exactly what's included in your care. This aims to reduce confusion and ensure greater consistency across all service providers.

More details about this list will be released closer to the rollout date.

Who can I talk to if I’m unsure about how this affects me?

There are several trusted sources you can contact for help and advice:

• My Aged Care: 1800 200 422

• Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN): 1800 700 600

• Burnie Brae Care Services Team: Our staff are here to help guide you through the changes and explain how they apply to your individual situation. Contact us

Free Information Session

Would you prefer to speak with someone face-to-face and get your questions answered? Join us at our free Support at Home Information Session.