As part of this evolution, older Western Australians can now access home care via a scheme called the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).

CHSP is an entry level service for older people (aged 65 years and over and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over) who are generally able to manage at home but may need some help with daily tasks. The types of support available includes help with cleaning, showering, shopping and transport, as well as organised social trips and activities.

The programme is subsidised by the Commonwealth Government and people can receive funding for a range of different types of support. You don’t need an income assessment to access the CHSP but you’ll still be expected to contribute to the costs of the service if you can afford to do so.


CHSP replaced Home and Community Care (HACC) services which was funded by the WA Government until 30 June 2018.


The move to a Commonwealth scheme doesn’t bring a lot of changes as the goal of the two programmes are essentially the same - to help older Western Australians to remain living at home through the provision of timely services that supports independence and wellness.

Plus, older people who were receiving HACC services before the transition will continue to receive these services funded by the CHSP from their existing provider(s).

However, the biggest difference is how new users can access to the service. Entry and assessment for all CHSP services is now through the Government’s aged care contact centre, My Aged Care, whereas previously people who wanted to access HACC had to be assessed by the WA Regional Assessment Service.

The home care assessment by the My Aged Care team involves an assessor meeting you at home to discuss your daily activities, what you need help doing and what you’re still able to do. 

If you are eligible for CHSP services, you can then research service providers and arrange for the services to be delivered.

To find out if you are eligible for CHSP services, contact our experienced customer service team on 1300 26 26 26 and we will help you through the process. Alternatively, you can talk to My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit www.myagedcare.gov.au.