The government has confirmed the introduction of staged price caps for the Support at Home program, starting 1 July 2025. Providers will set their own prices during the program’s first year.
Government-set price caps will begin on 1 July 2026, as per updated guidance from the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority (IHACPA).
Providers have welcomed the move.
“This flexible approach will be more effective than the originally intended price caps in meeting the ambitious goals of the Aged Care Act to dramatically increase access to high-quality, in-home aged care services in the coming years.”
Catholic Health Australia
During the transition, IHACPA and the Department of Health and Aged Care will closely monitor market behaviour, including transparency and consumer safeguards, alongside existing protections like bans on hidden fees, capped co-contributions, and a financial safety net.
Stakeholder consultations will start in January 2025, with updates shared in March 2025. Providers are expected to discuss service agreements with care recipients by April 2025, ensuring a smooth transition to the new pricing structure.
