From February 2017, funding for Home Care Packages will follow the consumer so they are free to select any approved provider to deliver their care.

Eligible consumers will be able to select any approved provider to deliver their care, with funding for the package paid to the approved provider selected by the consumer. Packages will be portable, allowing consumers to change their service provider, including where the consumer moves to another location.

These changes will give older Australians greater choice in deciding who provides their care, and will establish a consistent national approach to prioritising access to care.

Importantly, there will be increased competition, leading to enhanced quality and innovation in service delivery, and reduced regulation and red tape for providers. These changes are a key step in moving to a less regulated, more consumer-driven and market‑based aged care system.

Home Care Providers will also benefit from reduced red tape as they will not have to apply for home care packages through the annual Aged Care Approvals Round after 2015.

From July 2018, the Government intends to combine Home Care Packages and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme into a single integrated care at home programme.

These changes represent a significant shift in how care and support is delivered to older people and will involve consultation with stakeholders on the implementation and transitional arrangements.

Source: Department of Social Services, Budget 2015, Fact Sheet