OLDER Australians relying on help to remain independent in their own homes have been given greater certainty after the Federal Government extended the Commonwealth Home Support Program until 2029.
The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), which supports about 830,000 older Australians, will now continue until June 30, 2029, rather than being absorbed into the government’s new Support at Home system in 2027.
The program provides entry-level assistance to older people who need some support to continue living safely and independently at home.
Services can include domestic assistance, shopping, Meals on Wheels, transport, home maintenance, social support and allied health, with local councils, not-for-profit organisations and community groups among more than 1300 providers delivering services across the country.
The Government has also signalled it wants CHSP to remain separate from Support at Home beyond 2029, with consultation on its long-term future beginning this year.
Aged Care and Seniors Minister Sam Rae said retaining the program would provide continuity for older Australians while giving providers greater certainty.
Mr Rae said contracts across the CHSP system, including those held by councils, would be extended through to 2029 without interruption.
