Commonwealth Home Support Programme
As you get older, everyday tasks can become more difficult. Even though you need help, you may still want to live at home. Asking for help doesn’t mean losing your independence or moving out of home.
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) helps older Australians access entry-level support services to live independently and safely at home.
CHSP works with you to maintain your independence rather than doing things for you.
Is CHSP right for me?
Eligibility for this program is based on your support needs and age.
If you’re having trouble with everyday tasks and feel that a little support could improve your health and wellbeing, CHSP could be right for you.
To be eligible for this program, you must be aged:
- 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people), or
- 50 years or older (45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people), on a low income and homeless, or at risk of being homeless.
An aged care assessment will determine your eligibility for the CHSP, including specific services.
How do I get an assessment?
You must meet certain requirements to be eligible for an aged care assessment.
Answer a few simple questions in our eligibility checker tool. If you meet the requirements, you can apply for an assessment straight away.
If your application is successful, you will be referred for an assessment. An assessor will arrange to meet you in person, usually at your own home.
Follow this link: Am I eligible for an assessment? | My Aged Care
What services can I get through CHSP?
- Meals and food preparation
To help ensure you continue to eat well.
- Bathing, hygiene and grooming
To help maintain your personal grooming standards.
- Nursing
To help treat and monitor medical conditions at home.
- Podiatry, physiotherapy, and other therapies
To help maintain your movement and mobility.
- Help with impairments or continence
To help manage particular conditions and maximise your independence at home.
- Day/overnight respite
To support you and your carer by giving you both a break for a while.
- Changes to my home
To help maintain or increase your ability to move around your home safely and independently.
- Home or garden maintenance
To help keep your home and garden safe.
- Cleaning, laundry and other chores
To help keep your home clean and livable.
- Aids to stay independent
To help your mobility, communication, reading, and personal care limitations.
- Transport
To get out and about for community activities and appointments.
- Social outings, groups and visitors
To help you remain social and interact with your community.
How much will it cost me?
If you are eligible, you’re expected to contribute to the cost of your care if you can afford to. The cost depends on the type of support and the provider. Simple services like house cleaning and meals might cost a few dollars. More complex services like renovation work will cost much more.
Each provider sets their own prices. You’ll need to talk to them to get exact costs. You can find CHSP service providers using the Find a provider tool.
Read more about how CHSP service costs work.
Homelessness support is also available for older people who are homeless or at risk of being homeless as they get older. This includes providing links to housing and care services.
For more information head over to the CHSP website here: Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) | My Aged Care
Contact:
5551 8480
Frances Hewitt Community Centre, 2 Roberts St, Hamilton VIC 3300.
Office hours are Monday to Friday 8.00-4:30 pm