Everything You Need to Know, from Getting Started to Choosing a Provider
If you or someone you care about wants to stay at home as you age, but needs a bit of extra support, the Australian aged care system has help available.
But knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this practical guide: to walk you through the full process, step by step, in plain language, with real support from your local not-for-profit provider, Harbourside Port Stephens.
Whether you’re applying for help for the first time or planning for the transition to the new Support at Home model starting in November 2025, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Understand What Help Is Available
Read: Where to Start: Getting Help to Stay at Home Longer
In this blog, we cover:
- What a Home Care Package is
- The kinds of support you can access
- Signs it might be time to look into support
- How Harbourside can help you start the process
If you’ve been struggling with housework, feeling isolated, or just need a hand getting to appointments, this is the place to begin.
Step 2: Apply for a Home Care Package
Read: How to Apply for a Home Care Package (and Get Government Help)
Here we walk you through the full application process, including:
- How to register with My Aged Care
- What happens during your in-home assessment
- What your approval letter means
- How long the wait might be and what to do next
We’ve also updated this blog to reflect that assessments are now part of the Single Assessment System (replacing ACAT).
Step 3: Understand the New Support at Home System
Read: Home Care Packages Are Changing: What You Need to Know About Support at Home
From 1 November 2025, the aged care system is changing. In this blog, you’ll learn:
- What’s changing under Support at Home
- The new 8-level classification system
- Indicative funding amounts and quarterly budgets
- What stays the same and what improves
This is a must-read if you or your family are currently receiving care, or about to apply.
Step 4: Choose the Right Provider
Read: How to Choose the Right Home Care Provider (And Why Going Local and Not-for-Profit Matters)
Choosing a provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. In this post, we explore:
- What makes a good provider (and red flags to avoid)
- Why local, not-for-profit providers offer better value and personalised care
- How Harbourside delivers clinical support, continuity, and transparency
We also invite you to visit us in person at our community information stalls.
Step 5: Learn What You Can Use Your Funding For
Read: What Can You Use Your Home Care Package For?
This guide outlines the wide range of services and supports your funding can cover, including:
- Personal care, transport, domestic help
- Clinical nursing, allied health, and equipment
- Social connection and assistive technology
- What’s not allowed under the rules
You’ll also learn what’s changing under Support at Home when it comes to equipment and home modifications.
Need Personalised Help?
At Harbourside Port Stephens, we understand that every person and every situation is different. Whether you’re helping an ageing parent, planning ahead, or already approved for services, we’re here to talk it through with you.
📞 Call us on (02) 4984 1811
📍 Drop in to our office in Port Stephens
🌐 www.harboursideportstephens.com.au
Visit Us at Salamander Square
📍 Salamander Square
14th August
18th September
30th October
13th November
11th December
🕘 9:00am – 3:00pm
Drop in for a chat, no appointment needed.