Home Care Package Wait Times: How Long Does it Really Take?

For many older Australians, accessing home care services is a vital step in ensuring they can continue living comfortably and safely in their own homes. However, the process of obtaining a home care package can sometimes be met with frustrating delays, leaving individuals and their families wondering: How long does it take to access home care, and why does it vary?  

In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of home care package wait times, shedding light on what to expect and how to navigate the journey effectively. 

Understanding home care in Australia

Home care services in Australia encompass a range of support options designed to assist older individuals with various aspects of daily living.  

These services aim to enhance independence and enable individuals to age in place with dignity and comfort. From assistance with personal care tasks such as bathing and dressing to household chores, meal preparation, and even allied health services like physiotherapy or occupational therapy, home care packages offer a tailored approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. 

Read our comprehensive blogs taking a deeper look into home care services in Australia and services that home care packages can be used toward.

Applying for home care services

If you are interested in accessing home care services in Australia, you or your loved one must first undergo an assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) – or, if you are in Victoria, the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS).

This assessment evaluates the person’s care needs and determines their eligibility for government-funded home care packages. Once approved, the next step involves applying for a suitable package level based on assessed care needs, ranging from Level 1 (basic care needs) to Level 4 (high-level care needs). 

For more information, read our guide to aged care assessments, which includes how to prepare and what it will entail. 

Home care package wait times

One of the most significant challenges you or your loved one may face when seeking services is the home care packages wait times associated with obtaining a package. Unfortunately, wait times can vary considerably depending on factors such as geographic location, the package level sought, and the overall demand for home care services in the area.  

In some cases, individuals may even experience wait times of several months before securing a package. 

To give you a rough idea of the current wait times for someone applying for a home care package (and classified as ‘medium’ priority), here are wait times* as listed by MyAgedCare:

• Level 1: Less than 1 month
• Level 2: 3-6 months
• Level 3: 9-12 months
• Level 4: 3-6 months

*As of March 2024.

Why do wait times exist?

Several factors contribute to the existence of wait times for home care packages. One key factor is the growing demand for aged care services amid an aging population. As more Australians choose to age in place and access support services at home, the demand for home care packages has surged, placing strain on the existing system. Additionally, funding constraints and administrative processes can further exacerbate wait times, leading to delays in service provision. 

Navigating the wait

While waiting for a home care package can be challenging, there are steps you or a loved one can take to make the process more manageable. One option is to connect with multiple home care providers in their area to explore interim support options or to be placed on waiting lists for available packages. Many providers offer a range of services on a fee-for-service basis, allowing you to access essential support while awaiting their allocated package. 

In cases where individuals find themselves in urgent need of home care due to deteriorating health or safety concerns, there are avenues for expedited access. This may include seeking assistance from local health services, community organisations, or contacting My Aged Care for guidance on accessing emergency support or prioritised assessment. 

As you navigate the wait times for your home care package, there are several proactive steps you can take to make the process more manageable: 

• Stay informed: Keep abreast of updates and changes in the aged care sector, including policy reforms and funding allocations, to better understand the context of your wait. 
• Connect with providers: Reach out to multiple home care providers in your area to explore interim support options and be placed on waiting lists for available packages. 
• Advocate for prioritisation: If your health or safety is at risk, don’t hesitate to advocate for expedited access to home care services through local health services or community organisations. 
• Explore alternative funding options: Investigate other sources of funding or support that may be available to you while waiting for a home care package, such as carer support programs or community grants. 
• Maintain regular communication: Stay in touch with your assigned case manager or care coordinator to stay updated on your application status and any changes in your care needs. 
• Consider private services: Explore the option of accessing home care services on a fee-for-service basis through private providers to supplement your care while waiting for a government-funded package. 
• Prioritise self-care: Take proactive steps to maintain your physical and mental wellbeing during the waiting period, including practicing relaxation techniques, staying socially connected, and engaging in enjoyable activities. 
• Stay organised: Keep all relevant documents, correspondence, and contact information in one place to streamline communication and ensure you’re prepared for any updates or requests from service providers. 
• Be patient and persistent: While waiting for a home care package can be frustrating, it’s important to remain patient and persistent in advocating for your needs and seeking the support necessary to maintain your independence and quality of life. 

Reaching out to providers for support

Seeking support from a home care provider can significantly ease the burden of navigating the home care application process and managing wait times.  

While the process to apply for home care may seem daunting and complex, many providers are dedicated to simplifying the process for applicants. They take a lead role in guiding individuals through each step of the application, from initial assessment to package allocation, and provide ongoing support and assistance throughout the waiting period.  

By partnering with a trusted home care provider, you or a loved one can access valuable resources, expertise, and advocacy to ensure a smoother journey towards securing the care they need. 

In summary

Home care package wait times can present significant challenges for older Australians seeking support to remain living independently at home. By understanding the factors influencing wait times and exploring interim support options, individuals can navigate the journey more effectively and access the care they need in a timely manner. While the road to securing a home care package may be filled with obstacles, it’s essential to remain resilient, informed, and proactive in seeking the support necessary to maintain a high quality of life in later years. 

We’re here to support

Ready to receive hassle-free in-home care support? Grab our free report for a step-by-step guide to accessing a Home Care Package (HCP), understanding costs, and a must-have handy home care checklist. Take the first step toward care at home — download now for free.   

Got questions or like to receive more support? Please reach our care at home advisors or call us on 1300 144 144 and choose “home care” as a service option.