4 Tired of Broken Vertical Blinds? Blinds Don’t Open? Fabric Blades Faded? CALL RON 0438 724 834 No Call Out Fee or Minimum Charge SPECIAL PRICES FOR SENIORS We can fix them or replace Tracks only, New Blockout Blades or complete NEW Verticals with simple Wand Controls Planning for In-Home Care Under Australia’s New Support at Home Program As Australia’s aged care system evolves, many families are looking for ways to help older loved ones live safely and independently at home. With the introduction of the Support at Home Program on 1 November 2025, understanding how to plan financially for home care is more important than ever. At Home Care Assistance Gold Coast, we know navigating in-home care costs can feel overwhelming, particularly when families are balancing changing health needs, personal responsibilities and government funding systems. Understanding the new framework can make planning ahead far simpler. The Support at Home Program replaced the previous Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care programs, creating a streamlined approach to accessing services. Funding is now service-based rather than package-based, with budgets allocated quarterly. The program introduces eight funding levels, ranging from approximately $2,600 to $19,400 per quarter, depending on a person’s assessed care needs. A small portion of unused funding—up to 10 per cent or $1,000 per quarter—can also roll over. Funding can be used for a wide range of supports that help people remain comfortable and independent at home. These include everyday assistance such as cooking, light domestic support, lawn mowing and transport, as well as personal care like showering, dressing and mobility support. Clinical services such as nursing care, physiotherapy, medication management and wound care may also be included. While government funding covers a significant portion of care costs, most people will still be expected to contribute something. Contributions are income-tested and assessed by Services Australia. Full Age Pensioners generally pay little or no cocontribution, while self-funded retirees may contribute more. Importantly, these contributions become part of the overall care budget, meaning they help increase the level of support available. Additional funding streams are also available. Assistive Technology and Home Modifications funding can help cover items such as grab rails, mobility aids, or larger home adjustments like ramps or accessible bathrooms. Shortterm restorative care funding—up to $12,000—may support recovery after illness or surgery, while an end-of-life pathway provides additional funding for palliative care delivered at home. Accessing support begins with an aged care assessment through My Aged Care. Once eligibility and funding levels are confirmed, care providers work with families to create a personalised care plan that matches individual needs and budget. For many Australians, in-home care offers a practical and flexible alternative to residential care. With the right planning and support, it can help older Australians maintain independence, comfort and familiar surroundings for longer. Home Care Assistance Gold Coast helps families navigate assessments, funding and personalised care planning, making the journey to supported living at home clearer and more manageable. See page 5 > THE VILLAGE - HERITAGE B&B - 65 Railway St, Mudgeeraba www.thevillagebnb.com.au For more information and bookings ... Liz 0448 722 233 or Rich 0410 210 858 Catering Available BOOK NOW Mother’s Day Sunday 10th May Limited Bookings heritagehightea thevillagebnb Word Puzzle 131 Find a four letter word that will fit in all of these to complete another word. Answer next issue. Answer to Word Puzzle 130 BEAR __ __ __ __ IAC __ __ __ __INAL __ __ __ __BOARD DIS__ __ __ __ KEY__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __IGAN PLA__ __ __ __ POST__ __ __ __
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