As you get older, everyday tasks can become more difficult. Even though you need help, you may still want to live at home. Asking for help doesn’t mean losing your independence or moving out of home. The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) helps older Australians access entry-level support services to live independently and safely at home. CHSP works with you to maintain your independence rather than doing things for you.
Read more below including how to find if you're eligible and how to apply for the program with council.
Eligibility for CHSP is based on your support needs and age. If you’re having trouble with everyday tasks and feel that a little support could improve your health and wellbeing, this program could be right for you.
To be eligible, you must be aged:
An aged care assessment will determine your eligibility for the program including specific services you may need.
You must meet certain requirements to be eligible for an aged care assessment. You may be eligible if you have:
To find out if you are eligible for services, the first step is to have an assessment. Assessments are done by a representative from My Aged Care in person, usually at your own home. Their online eligibility checker helps you quickly check if you meet the requirements for an assessment before you apply. If your application is successful, you will then be referred for an in-person assessment. Check your eligibility by clicking below.
There are a range of services available which are provided by local community care organisations, such as council's Community Care team and their amazing Domestic Care Workers.
Services available through Northern Grampians Shire Council include:
Services are identified by a council representative once your My Aged Care assessment has been completed and a referral is sent to our Community Care team. We can also modify services depending on your individual needs and in consultation with you should the need arise.
To make sure you can access the help you need at an affordable price, the government subsidises a variety of organisations across Australia. These organisations are called service providers who deliver care and services to you at a subsidised price. Northern Grampians Shire Council and our Community Care team are one such service provider.
If you are eligible, you’re expected to contribute to the cost of your care if you can afford to. The cost depends on the type of support and every service provider sets their own fees. Simple services like house cleaning and meals might cost a few dollars, whereas more complex services like renovation work may cost more.
Northern Grampians Shire Council operates transparently in this regard. You can view our relevant fees by clicking on our Community Care Fees and Charges 2024-25(PDF, 164KB). For more information, please call the Community Care team on (03) 5358 0514.