CHSP Services and Fees Explained
CHSP services and fees explained: what the Commonwealth Home Support Programme covers, how client contributions work, and its move to Support at Home.
What the CHSP is
What services the CHSP covers
Who is eligible
How CHSP fees work
How to apply
The CHSP's future
Frequently asked questions
What does the CHSP cover?
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme covers basic help such as domestic assistance, meals, transport, personal care, nursing and allied health, social support, home maintenance and modifications, and respite. It's designed as entry-level support — usually one or two services — to help older…
How much do CHSP services cost?
The CHSP is heavily government-subsidised, so you pay a modest client contribution towards your services rather than the full cost. Providers set contributions in line with a fees policy, so amounts vary. If a contribution would cause hardship, you can discuss it with your provider.
Who is eligible for the CHSP?
You generally need to be 65 or over (50 or over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and need low-level help to keep living independently at home, confirmed through an aged care assessment via My Aged Care. The CHSP assessment is usually a lighter-touch home support assessment.
Is the CHSP being replaced by Support at Home?
Eventually. The CHSP has been extended to 30 June 2027 and will transition into Support at Home no earlier than 1 July 2027. Current CHSP clients don't need to do anything now; the government has committed to a smooth transition so support continues uninterrupted.