The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) is an Australian Government initiative designed to help older Australians live independently in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. The program provides entry-level support services that assist with daily tasks, promote wellbeing, and improve quality of life for seniors.
Key Aspects of the Commonwealth Home Support Programme
- Eligibility:
- The CHSP is primarily targeted at older Australians who need assistance with daily tasks to continue living at home.
- Individuals must be aged 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and need help with everyday tasks.
- An assessment is required to determine eligibility, which is conducted through the My Aged Care system.
- Services Provided:
- Personal Care: Assistance with daily personal activities such as showering, dressing, and grooming.
- Domestic Assistance: Help with household chores such as cleaning, laundry, and shopping.
- Nursing Care: Basic nursing services, including medication management and wound care.
- Allied Health Services: Access to physiotherapy, podiatry, and other health professionals.
- Home Maintenance: Support with minor home repairs and maintenance tasks.
- Social Support: Services to help maintain social connections, such as group activities and companionship.
- Meals and Food Services: Provision of meals, including help with meal preparation and delivery of meals.
- Transport: Assistance with transportation for shopping, medical appointments, and other activities.
- Respite Care: Temporary relief for primary caregivers, providing them with a break from their caring responsibilities.
- Accessing the Programme:
- To access CHSP services, individuals need to contact My Aged Care, which is the central entry point for Australian Government-funded aged care services.
- An assessment by a Regional Assessment Service (RAS) is conducted to determine the specific needs and services required.
- Once approved, individuals can choose from various service providers to receive the necessary support.
- Funding and Costs:
- The Australian Government subsidises the cost of CHSP services.
- Clients are expected to contribute to the cost of their care if they can afford to do so. The amount of the contribution depends on the type of service and the client’s financial situation.
- Benefits of CHSP:
- Enables older Australians to remain living at home and in their community.
- Provides flexible, tailored support to meet individual needs.
- Reduces the need for more intensive, long-term care services by providing early intervention and support.
For more information or to access services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, individuals can contact My Aged Care:
- Phone: 1800 200 422
- Website: My Aged Care
Concentric is now offering allied health services to older Australian’s who are on CHSP via our Homecare service. To find out more about Concentric Homecare or to make a referral please email homecare@concentric.com.au or phone 1300 148 160.