Great News: No More Personal Care Contributions from 1 October 2026
Thanks to a new Australian Government change to Support at Home contributions, from 1 October 2026 you will no longer need to pay a contribution towards your approved personal care services.
This means that if personal care is included in your support plan and you have available Support at Home funding, the Australian Government will fully fund your personal care services, including support with showering, dressing and personal hygiene.
We think this is wonderful news.
At Heather, we believe good care is about much more than helping with everyday tasks. It’s about helping you feel safe, comfortable, respected and confident in your own home.
A Little Help Can Make a Big Difference
This change gives us a great opportunity to talk about an important part of staying safe and independent at home: showering.
We know that accepting help with something as personal as showering can feel like a big step. Many people tell us they’re managing okay on their own, don’t feel ready for assistance, or would prefer not to use their care funding for personal care support.
We completely understand.
However, bathrooms can be one of the most challenging places in the home. Wet floors, slippery surfaces and getting in and out of the shower can all increase the risk of a fall.
Having a trusted Heather team member nearby can provide reassurance and practical support while still allowing you to do as much as possible for yourself.
It’s your shower, your routine and your independence. We’re simply there to support you and help you stay safe.
If showering is becoming a little harder, you’re feeling less steady on your feet, or you would simply feel more confident with someone nearby, now may be the perfect time to consider this support.
You don’t have to wait until something happens.
A little extra help today can often help people maintain their confidence, wellbeing and independence for longer.
What Is Included in Personal Care?
Personal care services may include support with:
- Showering and personal hygiene
- Dressing and getting ready for the day
- Getting in and out of bed
- Eating and meal assistance
- Non-clinical continence support
- Assistance with self-administration of medication
From 1 October 2026, approved personal care services will no longer attract a participant contribution, provided you have available Support at Home funding.
What Stays the Same?
You do not need to do anything for this change to take effect.
Your current care arrangements and care workers will continue as usual, and you do not need a new assessment because of this change.
Contributions for other Support at Home services are not changing.
We may contact you before 1 October if any updates are required to your care plan, service agreement, budget or related documents.
Please note that personal care contributions will continue to apply to services delivered before 1 October 2026.
We’re Here to Help
At Heather, we want you to feel supported by a team that knows you, listens to you and understands what’s important to you.
If you’d like to talk about your personal care needs, your shower routine, or whether additional support could help you feel safer and more confident at home, we’d love to have a conversation. There is no pressure and no obligation. We’re simply here to help you find the support that works best for you.
Call us on 07 3720 9122, speak with your Care Partner or submit an enquiry
