Home care waitlist blows out by 26% in just three months

The number of older Australians approved for but still waiting to receive a Home Care Package has surged by more than 25,000 in just three months, new figures reveal.

Documents tabled at Senate Estimates show 121,909 people were on the National Priority System (NPS) at the end of September 2025 – up from 96,709 at the end of June. That’s a 26 per cent jump in one quarter, and it doesn’t include around 120,000 seniors still waiting to be assessed for support.

Fewer packages, longer waits

Between July and September, the Government released just 10,001 new Home Care Packages – roughly 3,300 a month. By contrast, the NPS waiting list grew by about 8,400 people each month.

Advocates say the imbalance shows reforms are not keeping pace with demand. Many are calling on the Government to publicly explain the slow rollout and work with the sector on immediate solutions.

Calls for transparency

Committee Chair Senator Allman-Payne criticised the Government’s reluctance to share up-to-date data, saying it was “astonishing” that information about the waiting list was only released after repeated questioning.

“The lack of transparency makes it harder for the community to understand the scale of the issue and how it affects older Australians who need help at home,” she said.

Most already receiving some form of care

According to the Department of Health, 99 per cent of people on the waiting list are either receiving a lower-level Home Care Package or basic supports under the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP).

Providers say they’re ready

In a submission to the Senate inquiry, aged care provider Whiddon said many providers were well placed to deliver more services if more packages were made available.

“While the Government has expressed concern that providers may not be adequately staffed to manage an expedited release of packages, we believe that many providers are well-prepared and capable of absorbing additional packages, particularly with appropriate support and flexibility,” the organisation said.

What you can do while waiting

If you or someone you care for is on the waiting list, there are still ways to get help and plan ahead:

• Stay connected with My Aged Care: Keep your details updated and check in regularly for updates on your assessment or approval status.
• Ask about the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP): You may be eligible for entry-level help at home while waiting for your package.
• Use respite and community services: Local councils, neighbourhood houses and charities often provide short-term or low-cost support.
• Compare providers early: When your package is assigned, you’ll need to choose a provider quickly. You can search and compare approved home care providers on the Aged Care Guide.
• Get advocacy support: Organisations such as OPAN can help you understand your rights and navigate the system.