Navigating the world of aged care and understanding Home Care Packages can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when trying to determine the best support options for you or your loved ones. This page aims to provide clear, concise answers to the most frequently asked questions about Home Care Packages, helping you make informed decisions about care.

Understanding Home Care Packages

What is a Home Care Package?

A Home Care Package is a government-subsidised program that provides coordinated support to older Australians who wish to remain living independently at home. It offers personalised care based on individual needs, which are outlined in a care plan.

Who is eligible for a Home Care Package?

To be eligible, you must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, typically aged 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people). An assessment by the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) determines your eligibility and care needs.

How do I apply for a Home Care Package?

You can apply for a Home Care Package by contacting My Aged Care to arrange an ACAT assessment. After the assessment, if you are eligible, you will receive a letter confirming your package level and a unique referral code to access services. Read our step-by-step guide.

Care Management & Planning

What is a care plan?

A care plan is a document that outlines your specific home care needs, the services you will receive, who will provide these services and when they will be provided. Your care plan can be updated as your needs change, and your provider cannot alter it without your permission.

What is case management?

Case management involves a professional who works with you to coordinate your care services and resources. This includes assessment, care planning, service coordination, managing budgets, and reviewing your care plan. At Burnie Brae, case management fees are covered by your Home Care Package, so there are no direct payments required from you.

Services Provided by Home Care Packages

What can Home Care Packages provide?

Home Care Packages can fund a wide range of services to support your care and wellbeing. This includes personal care, cleaning, home modifications, shopping assistance, transport and respite care. Additionally, it covers services that help you stay connected to your community, such as participation in social activities or having a care worker accompany you to your favoyrite places. Health services like exercise classes, podiatry, physiotherapy and occupational therapy can also be included in your care plan.

What supplements are available if I have extra needs?

If you meet certain eligibility criteria, you may be entitled to receive supplements to help cover additional care needs. Available supplements include:

• Dementia & Cognition supplement
• Veterans supplement
• Oxygen supplement (for those with an ongoing medical need for the continual administration of oxygen)
• Enteral feeding supplement
• Hardship supplement

Is there anything Home Care Packages cannot provide?

Home Care Packages cannot fund programs and services already covered or subsidized by Medicare or the Australian Government. It also doesn’t cover expenses like rent, mortgage payments, holidays, food, gambling, entertainment, or the purchase of large appliances like fridges. For these, you may need to explore other financial assistance programs.

Can I buy a fridge with my Home Care Package?

Typically, Home Care Packages do not cover the purchase of large appliances, such as fridges. The focus of the package is on services and support rather than major purchases. For essential items like a fridge, other financial assistance programs or local community support might be a better option.

Does the Home Care Package cover oxygen supplementation?

Generally, Home Care Packages do not cover the cost of oxygen equipment. For oxygen supplementation, Medicare or private health insurance often provides coverage. Your Home Care Package provider can guide you on additional resources or support if needed.

Financial Information

How are Home Care Packages funded?

Home Care Packages are funded by the Australian Government. The amount of funding depends on the package level you are assigned. You may also be asked to contribute to the cost of your care based on your income assessment.

What is the Basic Daily Fee?

The Basic Daily Fee is a standard charge applied to all Home Care Packages to cover administrative costs. This fee is set by the government and is deducted from your Home Care Package budget. It is consistent across different providers and does not cover additional services or personal care costs, which are funded separately by your package.

Choosing & Changing Aged Care Providers

How do I choose a Home Care Provider?

After receiving your Home Care Package approval, you can choose a Home Care Provider from an approved list. It’s important to compare providers based on the services they offer, their costs and how well they can meet your specific needs.

Can I change my Home Care Package provider to Burnie Brae?

Yes, you can switch to Burnie Brae if you feel our services align better with your needs. To make the change, first, contact your current provider to arrange the transition. Then, reach out to Burnie Brae to begin the onboarding process and discuss your care needs.

Do you charge exit fees?

At Burnie Brae, we do not charge any exit fees for our Home Care Packages. This means you can transition out of our service or adjust your care plan without incurring additional costs, providing you with flexibility and peace of mind.

If you have any more questions or need assistance with your Home Care Package, feel free to contact us for more information.