Aged care in Western Australia is changing. For many years, families across Perth relied on the Home Care Package (HCP) system to help their loved ones remain independent. But, as part of the Australian Government’s commitment to a more flexible and transparent system, there has been a big transition at the end of 2025.
Perth Care Partners helps families navigate these transitions, ensuring that seniors across Perth and Mandurah receive the full range of government-subsidised support they are entitled to while remaining in the comfort of their homes.
What Replaced the Home Care Packages?
The Home Care Packages program has been replaced by the Support at Home program. This shift is designed to simplify how seniors access services and provide more transparency regarding funding. Under the previous system, packages were divided into four levels; the new Support at Home model utilises a more refined classification system to better match funding with a person’s actual clinical and social needs. Find out how to apply for Support at Home.
For Perth residents, this means more direct access to the specific services we provide at Perth Care Partners, such as:
- Personal Care and Nursing: Assistance with showering, dressing, and medication management.
- Specialised Care: Expert support for Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Palliative support care.
- Home Maintenance: Assistance with gardening, cleaning, and laundry to keep your home safe, clean and tidy.
How Do I Get an IAT Assessment in Perth?
The IAT (Integrated Assessment Tool) assessment replaces the ACAT and RAS assessments and is the primary method for receiving government-funded care. To start the process, you must first register with My Aged Care.
read our guide on How to Prepare for Your Aged Care Assessment in Perth.
You can apply online or call the national helpline 1800200422. Once registered, an assessor from a local Perth health service will visit your home. During this meeting, it is helpful to have a trusted advocate present. Perth Care Partners can help you prepare for this assessment, ensuring all your requirements, from social companionship to post-hospital care, are clearly documented so you receive the appropriate funding level.
What is the Difference Between CHSP and Support at Home?
There is currently some confusion in Western Australia regarding the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). While the Support at Home program has launched nationally to replace Home Care Packages, the CHSP will continue to operate as a separate program in WA until mid-2027.
The main difference lies in the level of need:
- CHSP is generally for seniors who only need one or two entry-level services.
- Support at Home is a more comprehensive program for those with complex or ongoing needs.
Because both programs currently coexist in Perth, our team at Perth Care Partners works closely with families to determine which funding stream is most beneficial for their current situation and how to transition seamlessly as needs change.
Can I Choose My Own Carers in Perth?
Yes, and this is a core value of the Perth Care Partners philosophy. One of the biggest frustrations for families in the Mandurah and the Perth metropolitan area is carer inconsistency, where a different stranger shows up at the door every week.
We believe that high-quality aged care is built on trust. That is why we provide a stable team of carers for our clients. You have the right to choose a provider that avoids a constant stream of new faces, allowing you to build a genuine relationship with a professional who knows your routine, your home, and your personal preferences.
What are the Next Steps for Perth Families?
If you are ready to explore your options or need help understanding your eligibility, the team at Perth Care Partners is here to guide you. Navigating government subsidies doesn’t have to be a solo journey.
- Review Our Services: Visit our Aged Care Services page to see how we can assist with everything from domestic help to complex clinical care.
- Book a Consultation: Contact us today to discuss your specific needs in Balcatta and the wider Perth area.
- Start Your Assessment: Let us help you prepare for your My Aged Care registration to ensure you get the support you deserve.
Contact Perth Care Partners today to learn how we can help you or your loved one live independently and with dignity.
