How Much Do Home Care Services Cost in Australia?

 

A survey of over 10,000 Australians shows that 80% of older adults want to stay in their current homes, and 62% prefer to receive home care services.

Home care is a valuable type of elderly care with a range of services that you can choose based on the needs of the elderly. Not only does the program vary, but the prices can also differ accordingly. If you or your loved one wishes to choose this program, it is crucial to know the cost of home care services in Australia.

The Assistance Offered by Home Care Services

The assistance revolves around tasks like the following:

  • Cooking
  • Personal care assistance
  • Home maintenance, repairs, and minor upgrades
  • Housekeeping and grocery shopping
  • Support for hobbies, social activities, and community engagement
  • Basic healthcare services, monitoring and therapy support

 

These services are provided to help individuals maintain their independence, improve their quality of life, and stay safely in their own homes. Care plans are tailored to each person’s needs, ensuring they receive the right level of support to meet their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Caregivers will coordinate with family members and healthcare professionals to provide the best quality of care.

Factors Influencing the Overall Cost

Several factors, as follows, can impact the overall cost:

  • The scope of care needed

If you only require simple assistance with everyday chores, like food preparation and housekeeping, the price will be more affordable. However, if you require assistance with personal hygiene and health care, the rate will be higher.

  • The location of your residence

The area where you reside also determines the overall cost, because some areas have higher living expenses. 

  • Emergency or after-hours care

Care provided outside normal hours, including nights, weekends, or holidays, comes with higher fees.

  • Caregivers’ skills and backgrounds

If you want to receive help from a competent caregiver who has years of experience, you will pay a higher cost due to the credentials they hold.

Payment Contribution

  • Government Support

The Australian Government provides financial assistance to eligible individuals through the Home Care Packages Program. The subsidy amount varies based on the package level, with higher levels receiving greater funding to address more complex care needs. These funds are allocated monthly into a home care account managed by Services Australia and are used to pay the costs of care and services provided by the approved providers.

It’s important to note that not everyone qualifies for this funding. Eligibility is determined through an assessment by an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT), which considers factors such as health status and care requirements.

  • Individual Payment

In addition to government funding, individuals are required to contribute to the cost of their home care through an individual payment. This payment helps cover any additional fees or services not funded by the government subsidy. Payment arrangements should be discussed directly with the care provider to ensure transparency and affordability.

The Cost of Home Care Services in Australia

Here’s what you can expect to pay for common home care services in 2025:

  • Personal Care: Approximately $85 – $115/hour
  • Domestic Assistance: Around $83 – $109/hour
  • Nursing Services: Typically $150 – $179/hour
  • Specialised Health Services (e.g., physiotherapy): $190 – $220/hour
  • Home Maintenance and Repairs: $85 – $120/hour

 

As mentioned in this article before, the Australian Government offers subsidies to cover the cost of home care services. For more detailed information, you can visit the Schedule of Subsidies and Supplements for Aged Care (2025)

Planning and Budgeting

To create an accurate budget, take the time to research different care providers and gather important information. When doing your research, it’s a good idea to focus on these key areas:

  • What specific services are offered, and whether they match your needs.
  • The qualifications and background of the staff who will be providing care.
  • Reviews and the overall credibility of the care organisation to ensure quality and trustworthiness.

With this information, you can compare different providers and find the one that best fits your needs. 

Conclusion 

Home care services offer a flexible and comfortable solution for seniors to receive the support they need. Understanding the costs involved is essential to plan effectively and avoid surprises. Since the price varies depending on factors like the level of care, location, and specialised needs, doing your homework on different providers will help you make the best choice.

By researching the offerings, staff qualifications, and reputations, you can find a home care service that fits your situation and budget. Ultimately, selecting the right home care will greatly improve the quality of life for you or your loved ones, making everyday living safer, easier, and more enjoyable.