What is the Support at Home Priority System?
Understand how the Support at Home Priority System works, what each priority level means and how it affects when you receive funding. A clear explanation of how priority is determined after your assessment and what happens when your referral codes are released.
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When you are approved for government funded home care, one of the first questions you might have is how soon you will receive your funding. Under the new Support at Home program, this is managed through what is called the Support at Home Priority System. Understanding how it works can help you know what to expect after your assessment and what steps come next.
Why a priority system exists
The Support at Home program is designed to give older Australians timely access to help that keeps them safe and independent at home. However, because many people apply for support, the government uses a priority system to make sure those with the most urgent needs are allocated funding first. It is a fair way to match available resources with the people who need them most.
How your priority is determined
Your priority level is decided after your aged care assessment. During your assessment the team will look at factors such as your health, mobility, living situation and how well you are coping with daily tasks. They will also consider risks such as falls, social isolation or a sudden decline in your condition.
Based on this information you will be placed into one of four priority groups:
- Immediate for people who have urgent needs and require fast access to support
- High for people who need help soon and are at risk without extra support
- Medium for people who would benefit from support but are currently managing
- Standard for people who have lower urgency and stable needs
Your assessor will explain your priority level and how it affects when you can expect your funding to be released.
What happens next
Once you have your assessment outcome you enter the national queue for funding. This is not a first come first served list. Your place in the queue is guided by your priority level and by the availability of government funding at that time.
When your funding becomes available you will receive a letter letting you know that you can now choose a provider. You will also receive a referral code which your chosen provider needs in order to set up your services. You usually have 56 days to use this code before it expires, so it is helpful to start looking into providers early.
If you are already receiving short term care, such as the Restorative Care Pathway, you can usually continue that support while waiting for ongoing services to start.
How this supports you
The Support at Home Priority System is designed to make sure care is delivered where it is needed most. For you it means transparency, a clear process and reassurance that the timing of your support is based on a fair and consistent approach.
It also means that once your funding is released you can move forward with confidence. You will have choice, control and the opportunity to work with a provider who understands your goals and preferences.
How Leora can support you through the Support at Home Priority System
Team Leora can help you understand where you sit in the Support at Home Priority System and what your priority level means for your funding timeline. Our team explains each step in simple terms and guides you through using your referral codes, choosing services and getting your plan started.
If you want support while you move through the Support at Home Priority System, you can reach out to us at any stage. We make the process easier to navigate so you feel informed, prepared and ready to begin the care that suits your needs.