From 1 July 2025, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) introduced important changes to its fee schedule, eligibility rules, and provider responsibilities. These updates are designed to make aged care services fairer, more consistent, and easier to understand.
If you or a loved one relies on CHSP services, here’s what the updates mean and how to access support through Homefront Australia.
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) is a government-funded initiative that helps older Australians remain living independently at home. It offers entry-level support for people who need a little help with daily activities but don’t require the higher level of care available under Home Care Packages.
CHSP services include domestic assistance, transport, social outings, home maintenance, allied health, nursing care, and mobility aids. You can find the full list of CHSP services on the My Aged Care website.
From July 2025, all aged care providers must follow a nationally consistent CHSP fee schedule. This makes it easier for clients to compare costs across different providers and locations. Low-income older Australians will continue to be eligible for reduced or waived fees.
A new category has also been added for specialised allied health services, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology. You can view more details about CHSP fees on the Department of Health and Aged Care website.
CHSP eligibility remains for Australians aged 65 and over (or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people). Updated assessment guidelines through My Aged Care make the process clearer and more consistent. Carers are now encouraged to be more involved in the aged care assessment process, allowing families to plan together.
CHSP providers are now required to be more transparent and accountable. They must publish fees on their aged care website, offer a formal agreement outlining services and costs, and ensure care is delivered safely and appropriately. Providers are also expected to improve cultural accessibility, offering translation and language options for clients from diverse backgrounds.
(Based on common client experiences, with details changed for privacy)
Margaret, a 74-year-old living on her own, receives CHSP support for domestic tasks and transport to her weekly physiotherapy sessions. Under the July 2025 changes, Margaret now has a clear written agreement showing her service costs upfront. Thanks to the new fee schedule, her physiotherapy fees are consistent with others in her area, and her daughter was included in the reassessment process. This gave both of them confidence that her support will remain fair, safe, and reliable.
This example shows how the changes aim to make CHSP simpler for older Australians and more reassuring for families and carers.
The process for accessing CHSP has not changed. If you’re new to the program, here’s what to do:
A CHSP provider is an approved service organisation that delivers entry-level support. Providers help older people with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, transport, or allied health care, enabling them to remain at home longer. You can explore Homefront’s CHSP services to see what’s available in your area.
No, CHSP is not ending yet. It will eventually merge into the Support at Home Program, which is expected to roll out in the coming years. For now, CHSP continues under its updated structure.
Yes, while CHSP is government funded, clients may contribute to costs. Fees depend on income and personal circumstances, with concessions for low-income households. For more details, visit the CHSP fee schedule guide.
The NDIS supports Australians under 65 with permanent and significant disability, while CHSP is designed for older Australians (65+ or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) who need help with everyday tasks to remain independent. See our blog on NDIS meal preparation for veterans for related information.
These changes are important because they provide older Australians and their families with greater certainty. With clearer fees, stronger provider accountability, and simplified eligibility, CHSP is now easier to navigate. If you’re currently receiving CHSP, these changes won’t reduce your support, they’re designed to make it fairer and clearer for you and your family
For older Australians, the reforms mean you can continue living independently and safely at home while knowing what services cost and what to expect from your CHSP service provider.
At Homefront, we believe that support should be personalised, compassionate, and reliable. As an approved CHSP provider, we deliver a wide range of services, from meal preparation and home maintenance to transport and social support. Our team works closely with clients and families to build care plans that match personal goals and changing needs.
If you or your loved one would like guidance on CHSP, you can learn more about our services on the CHSP Services page or contact our team directly. We’re here to make the process easier and help you continue living well at home.