Physiotherapist, Founder of Community Therapy
If you or a family member have been approved for a Support at Home classification, the next big question is: How do I actually get the support started?
Getting the help you need involves finding the right partner to deliver your services. Here is a guide to navigating the process, from finding a provider to managing your ongoing care.
Where to Find Approved Providers
Once you have your classification, you are free to choose a registered provider. There are several ways to find one:
- The “Find a Provider” Tool: The My Aged Care website has a dedicated search tool. You can enter your postcode to see which providers operate in your area.
- Search Engines: Many families find it easiest to use Google or Bing to search for “Support at Home providers near me.”
- Services Australia Centers: If you aren’t comfortable navigating the internet, you can visit a Services Australia center in person. They have Aged Care Specialist Officers (ACSOs) who can help you navigate the “Find a Provider” tool and explain your options.
Choosing the Best Provider for You
With so many options, how do you know which one to pick? Like any important service, it comes down to research and a bit of “shopping around.”
1. Check for Government Approval
The safest way to ensure a provider is government-approved is to look them up on the My Aged Care “Find a Provider” tool. Only registered providers are allowed to be listed on that directory.
2. Compare Costs and Quality
Providers set their own fee schedules, so prices will vary. It is important to compare service prices to find the right balance of cost and quality.
Note: Starting 1 July 2026, the government intends to introduce price caps for Support at Home services (similar to the NDIS) to ensure pricing remains fair and consistent across the board.
3. Read Reviews and Ask Around
Look at provider websites and social media, and read any available participant reviews. Word of mouth is also incredibly powerful—ask friends or neighbours about their experiences with local providers.
Managing Your Services
Can I use more than one provider at the same time?
Generally, no.Â
You can only engage with one registered provider at a time. However, your chosen provider can work with “associated providers.” These are third-party professionals (like gardeners or allied health professionals) that your main provider subcontracts to ensure you get all the specific help you need.
What if my worker doesn’t show up?
Your provider should have systems in place to notify you if a worker is unable to attend.Â
They will typically try to cover the shift or, at the very least, check in to ensure you are safe until the next scheduled service.
Can I change my supports or my provider?
- Changing Supports: Yes! Your supports are flexible. You are given a quarterly budget based on your classification, and you work with your provider (or care partner) to decide how to use that budget to meet your goals.
- Changing Providers: If you aren’t happy, you can switch. You just need to give notice to your current provider and tell them which new provider you are moving to. They will handle the transition of your claims and records.
Urgent Care Needs
If your situation changes and you need help immediately, this should be raised during your My Aged Care assessment. Those with urgent needs are given a priority classification to ensure they aren’t stuck on a long waiting list and can access services as quickly as possible.
Do you need a Support at Home Healthcare Provider?
Navigating the transition to a Support at Home Plan is a significant step, and it’s okay to have more questions.
If you are looking for local insights or need help understanding how clinical services—like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or dietetics—might help, you can reach out to Community Therapy.Â
We provide mobile healthcare services across Newcastle, Central Coast, Hunter and Port Stephens and are experienced in working alongside various providers to help older adults stay longer and stronger at home!
February 15, 2026
