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How Support Workers Are Funded Under Home Care Packages

Support workers are a key part of Home Care Packages (HCPs), helping older Australians live safely and independently at home. They assist with personal care, domestic tasks, transport, and social participation. Understanding how their services are funded ensures families can use their package effectively and avoid unnecessary costs.

1. How Home Care Package Funding Works

Home Care Packages are government-subsidised and delivered across four levels, each designed for different care needs:

  • Level 1 – Basic care needs.
  • Level 2 – Low-level care needs.
  • Level 3 – Intermediate care needs.
  • Level 4 – High-level or complex care needs.

Each level provides a set amount of annual funding, which can be used flexibly for support services such as personal care, household assistance, and allied health.

2. Support Worker Services Covered by HCPs

Support workers are typically funded to deliver the following services:

  • Personal Care – Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
  • Domestic Support – Help with cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation.
  • Community Access – Transport and support to attend appointments or social activities.
  • Respite Support – Short-term help for family carers.

These services must be linked to goals in the client’s care plan, such as maintaining independence, improving wellbeing, or supporting community participation.

3. Funding Allocation for Support Workers

Support worker hours and rates are drawn from your total package budget. The provider manages this budget and deducts costs for:

  • Direct service hours (support worker pay).
  • Case management and package management fees.
  • Equipment or allied health services if included.

The remaining balance is available for day-to-day support. Monthly statements show exactly how much funding goes toward support worker services.

4. Hourly Rates and Fee Differences

The cost of support workers varies between providers.

  • Average rates range from $55 to $75 per hour depending on time, location, and provider fees.
  • Public holidays, after-hours work, or weekend shifts may incur higher rates.

To maximise value, compare provider rates and ask for a transparent fee schedule before signing an agreement.

5. How to Plan Support Worker Hours

When planning support hours, focus on balancing daily living assistance with longer-term independence.

  • Schedule essential support (e.g., personal care) regularly.
  • Combine with allied health recommendations (e.g., mobility training from an OT or physio).
  • Review hours quarterly to ensure funding is used effectively and aligns with your care goals.

6. Using Therapy Assistants and Support Workers Together

In higher-level packages, some clients use therapy assistants—often supervised by physiotherapists or occupational therapists—to deliver mobility or exercise programs. This approach uses support hours efficiently while maintaining professional oversight.

7. Self-Management for More Flexibility

Some clients choose to self-manage their HCPs, allowing them to hire independent or local support workers directly. This can reduce management fees and stretch funding further, but requires more responsibility for coordination and compliance.

Conclusion

Support workers are fully fundable under Home Care Packages, providing essential assistance with daily living, mobility, and community access. By understanding how funding is allocated, comparing provider rates, and reviewing care plans regularly, families can ensure their support hours deliver maximum independence and quality of life at home.

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