What are my options while waiting for a Home Care Package?

Applying for a Home Care Package (HCP) can be an essential step in getting the support you or your loved one needs to continue living independently at home. However, waiting times for government-funded packages can be long, often several months or more. During this period, many older Australians and their families wonder what to do while they wait for funding to become available.

If you haven’t already applied for a Home Care Package, you’ll need to start the process through My Aged Care, the Australian Government’s aged care portal. You can apply online at My Aged Care or by calling 1800 200 422.

While waiting for your package, there are several short-term and private care options available to help you get the support you need.

1. Privately funded home care

One of the most flexible options is to pay for home care services privately while waiting for government funding. Many home care providers offer private care services, meaning you can pay for the support you need on an hourly basis.

How it works

• You choose which services you need, such as help with showering, dressing, cleaning, meal preparation, transport or nursing care.
• The cost varies by provider, but expect to pay $50 – $120 per hour, depending on the type of care required.
• Once your government-funded Home Care Package is approved, you can transition to using those funds instead of paying out of pocket.

? Not sure which provider is right for you? Use the Aged Care Guide comparison tool to compare home care providers in your area, check their services and find the best fit for your needs.

Benefits

✔ Immediate support without waiting for funding
✔ Flexible hours and services tailored to your needs
✔ No need for government assessment or approvals

2. Support from family & friends

If private care isn’t an option, short-term help from family, friends or community networks can be a practical solution. While not everyone has a strong support network, even small contributions from family members can help during this period.

Ways your family can help:

• cooking and meal preparation — ensuring healthy meals are readily available;
• household tasks — such as vacuuming, laundry or taking out the bins;
• personal care — if comfortable, family members may assist with showering, dressing or grooming; and
• social visits & companionship — reducing loneliness while waiting for formal services.

Considerations

• Family carers may be eligible for the Carer Gateway program, which offers support and financial assistance for unpaid carers.
• If the care needs become too complex, it may be time to explore professional care options.

3. Short-term respite in an aged care home

If an older person cannot safely stay at home alone, respite care in an aged care home may be an option. Respite care provides short-term accommodation and care in a facility, allowing older people to receive assistance with daily activities, meals, medication management and social engagement.

How it works

• It is accessible for a few days up to several weeks, depending on availability.
• It can be privately funded, with costs around $60 – $300 per day or subsidised if approved through My Aged Care.
• It provides 24/7 care and supervision in a safe, supportive environment.

Who this may suit:

• those recovering from a hospital stay or illness;
• older people who live alone and are unsafe without care; and
• family carers who need a temporary break from their caregiving role.

Next steps while you wait

1. Check your place in the queue — you can track your Home Care Package application status by contacting My Aged Care.
2. Explore private or family support — start by assessing what help is needed immediately and whether private care or family support is viable.
3. Plan for respite care if needed — if staying at home becomes unsafe, consider arranging a short-term stay in an aged care home.
4. Prepare for your Home Care Package — research approved Home Care Package providers so you’re ready to make an informed decision when funding is allocated.

Waiting for a Home Care Package can feel frustrating, but there are practical solutions to help manage care needs in the meantime. Whether it’s private home care, family support or short-term respite care, there are ways to ensure you or your loved one stays safe, comfortable and well-supported while waiting for government funding.

For more information or to apply for a Home Care Package, visit My Aged Care or call 1800 200 422.