Approval and active funding are not the same thing.
Funding & programs
Waiting for funding explained in plain English
Being approved confirms that your care needs have been assessed. Funding may still take time to be assigned before full services can begin.
Liz explainsPlain-English guidance, then the next useful step.
At a glance
What to know first
Waiting time can vary.
You may still have support options while you wait.
The practical detail
Understand the part that matters to you.
What “approved” means
Your care needs have been assessed and a funding level has been allocated, but the funding may not yet be active.
Why there can be a wait
Funding is released through national allocations and demand can exceed available funding at different times.
What you can do while waiting
Some people may be able to use CHSP or other short-term and privately funded supports while they wait for their full funding to become available.
Related Liz Questions
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Navigating the System & Eligibility
How long is the national waitlist for a Home Care Package?
There is no single fixed national wait time. Under Support at Home, waiting depends on your priority category, the services approved and available funding. Some urgent funding is expected within one month, while other ongoing services may take considerably longer.
Read answer →Assessments, Waiting & Urgent HelpWhat can I do while waiting for Support at Home funding?
Ask about interim funding, CHSP, private services, community support and whether your priority should be reviewed.
Read answer →Assessments, Waiting & Urgent HelpWhat is interim Support at Home funding?
Some people may receive part of their approved funding while waiting for their full allocation.
Read answer →Commonwealth Home Support ProgrammeCan a CHSP provider place me on a waiting list?
Yes. CHSP providers can place people on a waiting list if they do not currently have capacity to deliver services. Being approved for CHSP services does not guarantee immediate access to a provider or immediate commencement of services.
Read answer →Navigating the System & EligibilityWhat does it mean to be “approved” versus “assigned” a Home Care Package or Support at Home package?
Being approved means an assessment has found you eligible for particular aged care services. Being allocated or assigned funding means the government funding for those approved Support at Home services is available for you to start arranging care.
Read answer →In-Home Care & Support at HomeWhat services can I actually pay for with Support at Home?
Support at Home funding can pay for services that are approved in your support plan and included on the official service list. These may include nursing and allied health, personal care, respite, transport, domestic assistance and home maintenance.
Read answer →In-Home Care & Support at HomeCan I get help with transport to medical appointments?
Yes, you can get help with transport to medical appointments through My Aged Care. Assistance is generally provided as direct transport with a driver, or via taxi and rideshare vouchers. Depending on your region, these services are offered through programs like the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) or a Support at Home funding.
Read answer →Financials, Fees & FundingIs aged care entirely free or subsidized by the government?
Aged care in Australia is heavily subsidized by the Australian Government, but it is not entirely free. The government pays significant subsidies to approved providers on your behalf, but individuals are still expected to contribute to their care and living costs depending on their income and assets. The exact costs depend heavily on whether you are remaining at home or moving into an aged care facility:1.
Read answer →When general information is not enough
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