What a Home Care Package Covers: Inclusions & Exclusions
What does a home care package cover? Inclusions like personal care, nursing and cleaning, exclusions like rent and groceries, plus the grey areas.
The guiding principle
Personal care and clinical support
Help around the home
Getting out and staying connected
Equipment and home modifications
What is not covered
The grey areas
Frequently asked questions
What does a home care package cover?
It funds care tied to your assessed needs — personal care, nursing and allied health, domestic help, meals, transport, social support, and aids or home modifications. Under Support at Home, clinical care is fully funded and everyday-living services carry a larger contribution.
What can't home care funding be used for?
It cannot pay everyday bills like rent, groceries and utilities, major assets like a car, holidays or gambling, general non-access renovations, or care the health system already covers such as GP visits, hospital care and PBS medicines.
Can home care funding pay for a cleaner or gardener?
Yes. Cleaning, laundry and light garden maintenance are covered as everyday-living support. Under Support at Home these services carry the largest participant contribution, since they are the kinds of household costs many people meet themselves through life.
Why was my request refused when a friend's was approved?
Many items sit in a grey area, funded only when documented clinical need links them to your goals. A clinician's recommendation and clear relevance to your safety or independence often make the difference. Ask your care partner what evidence would support the request.