Last week the Australian government announced a $3 billion funding package for aged care, including $1 billion to reclassify essential personal care services as clinical care under Support at Home, eliminating co-contributions for older Australians.

Showering, dressing, and continence care – previously categorised as personal care with a 5–50% client co-contribution – will now be fully government-funded from October 2026.

Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson commended the government for addressing what he described as "alarming" evidence of the previous system's unintended consequences.

"Showering is not just about hygiene and health; it’s about basic human dignity," Symondson said.

"This decision will rebuild trust in the reforms and ensure our most vulnerable can access the services they need when they need them."

For providers like Right at Home, these changes mean clients requiring personal care will no longer face the financial burden of co-contributions for their most essential daily needs. The government’s decision to reclassify showering as clinical care helps remove the financial pressure that has previously caused some seniors to cut back on their daily support. By moving these services into the fully government-funded clinical category, the reform ensures that cost is no longer a barrier to maintaining personal health and wellbeing at home.

Right at Home Australia CEO Fritha Radyk welcomes the changes.

“Reclassifying showering, dressing, and continence care as clinical supports simply had to happen to protect the health and hygiene of Australia’s most vulnerable older adults,” she said.  

“We look forward to the government continuing to work with providers and participants and their families to improve the Support at Home program.”

The broader $3 billion package represents a significant investment in the sector’s infrastructure, specifically designed to address the national shortage of residential care. The government has committed to funding the construction of 5,000 additional aged care beds per year starting in 2027. In addition to infrastructure, the package prioritises specialised medical support with a $200 million investment into dementia services.

Right at Home Australia is a leading provider of quality in-home care. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those we serve ensuring the Right Care, Right at Home™. We support people living with complex and post-operative care needs, dementia and cognitive decline, older adults, and adults living with a disability including NDIS participants. Our tailored services help clients to remain safe and independent in their homes. We have 59   territories across Australia and growing. If you are interested in a franchise opportunity with Right at Home, call us on 1300 363 802 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..