More funding for CHSP home support services

Minister for Aged Care, Ken Wyatt AM, MP, announced an extra $115 million for the program meaning many more older Australians will be able to receive support at home and maintain their independence. 

The CHSP currently supports more than 640,000 older Australians to continue living independently in their own home and community. 

The program provides support with tasks such household chores, preparing meals, personal care, transport and home maintenance. 

“These services assist older Australians to live at home longer and enjoy all the benefits of being in their local community, Mr Wyatt says. 

“It will provide extra transport services to take clients to appointments as well as social events in their local community. 

“In addition, the funding will support vulnerable people, including the homeless, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse people and those in rural Australia.” 

Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA), the peak body for the not-for-profit aged care industry, welcomes the increased funding for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). 

“The vast majority of CHSP funded services are delivered by not-for-profit aged care providers. The additional $115 million will support many more older people than the 640,000 already receiving support through the programme, helping them remain in their own homes,” says ACSA CEO Pat Sparrow. 

The ‘wellness approach’ of the CHSP builds on older people’s strengths, capacity and goals to help them remain independent and living safely in their home. 

Mr Wyatt says the extra money will provide additional nursing services, respite care services, allied health and therapy services, such as physiotherapy and speech pathology, as well as assistance with care and housing that is responsive to local community needs. 

“Helping older people to stay at home and in their communities for longer is another way the Government is providing choice in aged care services so that the people who built this nation can live a dignified old age.

“It’s about providing quality services for older Australians in the right way, at the right time,” Mr Wyatt adds. 

“We are giving people choice. We are making sure they get practical help.”