Choosing the right home care funding option can feel overwhelming, especially with the complexity of government-funded care and the flexibility of private pay. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve broken down the key differences between government-funded home care and private pay options, focusing on cost, timelines, and flexibility.

Cost Comparison: Transparency Matters

One of the biggest concerns when choosing home care is cost. Here’s how government-funded and privately funded home care compare:

Government-Funded Home Care

The Australian Government provides Home Care Packages (HCPs) to support older Australians in staying at home. These packages are tiered based on care needs, with funding allocated accordingly. However, some providers charge package management fees, daily fees, and other hidden costs, which can significantly reduce the number of care hours received.

At Right at Home, we take a different approach. Unlike some providers, we do not charge daily package fees or Home Care Package Management Fees or any other hidden costs . This means you get more care hours and greater value from your funding.

Private Home Care

Privately funded home care offers complete flexibility and transparency. At Right at Home, all private care costs are clearly outlined with a detailed budget breakdown, ensuring there are no unexpected fees. This allows clients to plan their care with confidence, knowing exactly what services they are receiving and how much they will cost. Private clients do not need to go through government processes such as Income Testing Assessments to determine whether or not an income tested care fee is needed to be paid in order to receive the government funding. 

Timelines: Immediate Care vs. Long Waiting Periods

A major drawback of government-funded home care is the waiting time. Home Care Packages can take 6 to 12+ months to be approved, leaving many families without essential support when they need it most.

If immediate care is required, private home care is the best solution. Privately funded services can begin immediately, ensuring that clients receive the support they need without delay. Right at Home also offers a privately paid 'Care While Your Wait' Program for those waiting for government funding, providing a seamless transition to government funding once their package is approved.

Flexibility: Your Care, Your Way

Government-funded home care comes with restrictions. Funding can only be used for approved services, and certain supports require additional approvals. If your chosen provider has limited service options, you may not receive all the care you need.

With private home care, you have complete control over your care plan. You can access a wide range of services, from domestic and companion care to personal care and skilled nursing, without the application process, government assessment and waiting  for approval or waiting for the package to be released. Private funding also allows you to choose what you want to spend on in home modifications and assistive technologies to support  your independent living.

At Right at Home, we provide a full continuum of care—whether you’re government-funded or privately paying, we ensure that all your needs are met through your aging journey and as your needs change.

Making the Right Choice for You

When deciding between government-funded and private home care, consider:

• How soon do you need care? If you can’t wait for a government package, private home care is available immediately.

• Do you need flexibility? Private home care allows for greater control over services and spending.

• Are you looking for transparent pricing? Right at Home provides clear budget breakdowns with no hidden fees, ensuring you receive the most value from your care.

• Do you need Top Up Care? Right at Home provides privately paid top up care to ensure your needs are met where government funding doesn't cover all your requirements. 

Next Steps: Find the Right Home Care Plan

If you’re ready to get started, book a free in-home consultation to explore your care options. If you need more information before making a decision, visit our Resources Page for helpful guides, including:

• Right Conversations Toolkit – How to discuss home care with loved ones.

• Home Care Needs Assessment Worksheet – Determine what level of care is required.

• Home Care Package Application Guide – Step-by-step instructions for applying for government-funded care.

For more information on private or immediate care, explore our Private Home Care, Immediate Home Care, and Care While You Wait Program pages.

Choosing the right home care funding option is an important decision—Right at Home is here to support you every step of the way.

If you would like to learn more about how we can help you or someone you love, with government funded Home Care Package support or with Private Home Care, contact your local Right at Home office today. 

Right at Home Australia is a leading provider of quality in-home care. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those we serve ensuring the Right Care, Right at Home™.  We support people living with complex and post-operative care needs, dementia and cognitive decline, seniors, and adults living with a disability including NDIS participants. Our tailored services help clients to remain safe and independent in their homes. We are an Approved Provider under the Aged Care Act, meaning we can provide quality support at home under a government-funded home care package. We also offer private pay arrangements for those who do not have government funding, or who wish to pay privately for top-up care. Right at Home is all about you. We are available 24/7 so contact your local office today. You can also call our national number on 1300 363 802. 

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