Understanding Home Care Packages

Home Care Packages (HCPs) are government-funded programs designed to help older Australians remain living independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

These packages provide a coordinated mix of services tailored to meet individual care needs, promoting autonomy and enhancing quality of life.

Understanding the Different Levels of Home Care Packages

The Australian Government offers four levels of Home Care Packages, each corresponding to varying degrees of care requirements:

Level 1: Supports those with basic care needs.
Level 2: For individuals with low-level care needs.
Level 3: Covers intermediate care needs.
Level 4: Caters to high-level care needs.

Each level provides a different subsidy amount, ensuring that the support aligns with the specific needs of the individual.

Package Level	Level of care needs
Level 1	Basic care needs - $10,687.20 a year
Level 2	Low care needs - $18,793.85 a year
Level 3	Intermediate care needs - $40,905.55 a year
Level 4	High care needs - $62,013.50 a year

How Home Care Packages Support Older People on the Mid North Coast

Living on the Mid North Coast offers a unique lifestyle, and Home Care Packages are designed to complement this by providing services that address both daily living activities and broader wellbeing. These services can include:

Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, and grooming to ensure personal hygiene and comfort.
Domestic Assistance: Help with household tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation, maintaining a safe and tidy home environment.
Home Maintenance and Modifications: Ensuring the home is safe and accessible, which may involve installing ramps, handrails, or performing minor repairs.
Transport Services: Providing transportation to medical appointments, social engagements, or shopping trips, facilitating continued community involvement.
Social Support: Encouraging participation in social activities to foster connections and reduce feelings of isolation.
Clinical Care: Access to nursing services for medication management, wound care, or chronic disease management.
Meal Services: Providing nutritious meals delivered to your door, ensuring dietary needs are met without the hassle of cooking.

Our team collaborates with you to develop a care plan that reflects your preferences and goals, ensuring that you receive the support you need while maintaining control over your care decisions.

Am I eligible for these services?

Eligibility is based on your care needs as determined through an assessment, but you must also be:

an older person 65 or over (or 50 and over for First Nations people) who needs coordinated services to help them stay at home, or
a younger person with a disability, dementia or other care needs not met through other specialist services.

Your financial situation won’t affect your eligibility. But you may also need an income assessment through Services Australia to work out exactly how much you may be asked to contribute. 

You can check your eligibility here: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/am-i-eligible

How do I get started with a Home Care Package?

Navigating the process of obtaining a Home Care Package can seem daunting, but we're here to assist you every step of the way:

Check Eligibility: Contact My Aged Care at 1800 200 422 or visit their website to determine your eligibility for an assessment.
Assessment: An Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will evaluate your care needs to identify the appropriate package level.
Approval and Assignment: Once approved, you'll be placed in the national priority system until a package becomes available.
Choose a Provider: Select an approved home care provider, like Omnicare, to coordinate and deliver your services.
Develop a Care Plan: Work with your chosen provider to create a personalised care plan that aligns with your needs and preferences.

At Omnicare, we strive to make this journey as smooth as possible, offering guidance and support to help you access the care you deserve.

What will it cost me?

You’re expected to contribute to the cost of your care if you can afford it. Your contribution is made up of three types of fees:

Basic daily fee (up to $13.08 from 20 September 2024) Your provider may ask you to pay a basic daily fee based on your Home Care Package level.
Income tested care fee (up to $37.55 from 20 September 2024) Some people may also have to pay an income tested care fee. Whether you pay it, and how much of it you pay, is determined through a formal income assessment from the Services Australia. This assessment only looks at your income. If you must pay this fee, there are annual and lifetime limits on how much you can be asked to pay.
Additional fees Any other amount you have agreed to pay for extra care and services that wouldn’t otherwise be covered by your Home Care Package.

What is an income assessment?

An income assessment works out if you have to pay an income tested care fee for your Home Care Package. It is undertaken by the government and is based on your income only.

Why Choose Omnicare?

At Omnicare, we believe in providing more than just home care—we offer support, community, and a commitment to quality. Here’s why we stand out:

Experience: With over 30 years of experience, we understand the needs of older Australians and provide expert care.
Local Focus: We are locals, for locals. We know the Mid North Coast community and tailor our services to fit your lifestyle.
Comprehensive Services: Everything you need is under one roof, ensuring convenience and seamless care.
Compassionate Approach: We genuinely care about your comfort and wellbeing, making sure you feel supported every step of the way.
Personal Contact: Your dedicated home care coordinator will manage your services, providing a familiar and friendly point of contact.
Quality Commitment: We prioritise quality in everything we do, ensuring you receive the best possible care.
Profit-for-Purpose: We are more than just a not-for-profit organisation—we reinvest in community programs to maximise support and impact.
Client-First Philosophy: At Omnicare, it’s all about you. Your needs, your preferences, your care.

Do you have more questions?

If you or a loved one are considering a Home Care Package on the Mid North Coast, we'd be honoured to assist you. Reach out to us at 1300 336 488 to learn more about our services and how we can support your journey.