Physiotherapist, Founder of Community Therapy
When you begin your journey with a Support at Home plan, you will be asked to sign a service agreement. This document outlines the partnership between you and your provider. Because these agreements are individualised and based on the Aged Care Act, it is important to understand what to look for and what your rights are.
What Makes a “Good” Service Agreement?
There is no single “standard” agreement; every provider has their own. However, a good agreement should feel fair and transparent. It should clearly define:
- Rights and Responsibilities: What you can expect from the provider and what they expect from you.
- Compliance: It must meet the requirements of the Aged Care Act and the Aged Care Quality Standards.
- Clinical Safety: It should outline how the provider will ensure safe care through clinical assessments and reviews.
Rights vs. Responsibilities
As a participant, you have defined rights, but you also have a few key responsibilities to keep the services running smoothly.
Examples of Your Responsibilities:
- Worker Safety: You are responsible for treating workers with respect and working with the provider to ensure your home is a safe environment for staff.
- Financial Contributions: You must pay any agreed-upon participant contributions.
- Transparency: You must notify Services Australia or My Aged Care if your financial situation changes (e.g., an inheritance), as this may affect your government subsidies.
The Provider’s Responsibilities:
- Budget Management: They must provide you with monthly statements so you can see exactly how your budget is being spent.
- Clinical Care: They are responsible for conducting comprehensive assessments, usually by a nurse or Allied Health professional, and regular reviews every 3 to 12 months.
- Reporting: They handle all the heavy lifting regarding government reporting and claims.
Common Questions About Providers and Changes
Can I use a “non-registered” provider?
No. Under the Support at Home program, you must engage a registered provider. However, that registered provider can use “associated providers”, third-party contractors like gardeners or allied health professionals, to deliver specific parts of your care.
What happens if my health or circumstances change?
If your health declines (for example, after a fall) and your current classification no longer provides enough support, you can request a Support Plan Review. This involves a new assessment through My Aged Care, which may be done over the phone or in person at your home.
Do I have to attend regular meetings?
While providers are required to conduct reviews to ensure your care is safe and meeting your goals, you aren’t strictly required to attend a specific number of “meetings.” It is a collaborative process designed to support you, not a chore to check off.
About Community Therapy
If you’re navigating these agreements and want to understand the clinical side of care, such as how a mobile therapist can support your goals, Community Therapy is an associated Support at Home Allied health provider and an approved CHSP provider.
We work alongside various registered Support at Home providers to deliver clinical assessments and ongoing therapy.Â
If you are considering allied healthcare under your Support at Home plan, you are welcome to contact us for a transparent conversation whether we’re a good fit!
February 15, 2026
