Once you’ve been approved for a Home Care Package – or, later this year, a Support at Home classification, your next step is one of the most important: choosing the provider who will deliver your care and manage your services.
This isn’t just a paperwork decision. The provider you choose will shape your day-to-day experience. They’ll help manage your budget, coordinate your care workers, and support your independence over the long term.
At Harbourside Port Stephens, we believe the answer lies in two simple principles: stay local and choose not-for-profit. Here’s why that matters.
What Does a Home Care Provider Actually Do?
A home care provider is an organisation approved by the government to manage care plans and funding under the aged care system. Their role includes:
- Working with you to build a care plan based on your goals
- Organising services like cleaning, transport, personal care, and nursing
- Managing your budget and service agreements
- Monitoring your health, safety, and changing needs
- Providing access to clinical care, allied health, and equipment if needed
From 1 November 2025, under the Support at Home program, providers will continue playing this central role, managing your quarterly budget and coordinating approved services.
What to Look For in a Provider
Not all providers are the same. When choosing one, consider:
1. Are they local to your area?
A local provider understands the community. They know the streets, the service options nearby, and the values that matter to people living here. In a place like Port Stephens, this can mean quicker response times, familiar care workers, and stronger continuity of care.
2. Are they a not-for-profit?
Choosing a not-for-profit (NFP) provider means your funding goes further. Unlike for-profit companies, NFPs reinvest into care, not shareholders. That can mean:
More staff hours in your care plan
Better access to nursing and clinical services
Greater transparency and fewer hidden fees
A values-based approach focused on people, not profit
It’s not just about money, it’s about trust, accountability, and care that puts your wellbeing first.
3. Do they offer clinical care?
Not all home care providers offer nursing support or clinical services, even though you might need them. At Harbourside, we provide clinical care delivered by qualified nurses, which is especially important as needs change.
4. Can they explain things clearly?
A good provider should help you understand your budget, your rights, and your options. If you’re left confused or overwhelmed, or if everything feels like a hard sell, that’s a red flag.
5. Are they flexible and responsive?
Your needs might change. Your care plan should be able to change with them. Ask how easy it is to add or remove services, adjust your hours, or get a review if something’s not working.
6. Do they have real people you can talk to?
You deserve more than a generic call centre. You deserve someone who knows your name, understands your situation, and picks up the phone when you need them.
Why Harbourside?
At Harbourside Port Stephens, we’re not a national chain. We’re a local not for profit. Our care workers live here, our nurses drive these streets, and our support team works from our office right in your community.
We believe in:
- Clear communication
- Continuity of care
- Listening to our clients
- Responding when it matters most
Whether you’re just starting out or transitioning to the new Support at Home model later this year, we’ll guide you through every step with care and clarity.
Come Chat With Us in Person
We’re hosting an information stall at Salamander Square, a perfect chance to meet the team, ask questions, or just say hello on any of the following dates:
Salamander Square
10th July
14th August
18th September
30th October
13th November
11th December
9:00am – 3:00pm
No appointments needed, just drop by.
Let’s Talk About What You Need
Choosing a provider is a big decision. Let’s make it simple. If you’re comparing options or unsure what to look for, we’re happy to talk it through, no pressure.
Call us on (02) 4984 1811
Visit: www.harboursideportstephens.com.au