Finding a reliable home care package provider that delivers quality service, value for money, and provides the necessary support when you need it is essential when it comes to home care services. Home care services aim to help you maintain your independence and happiness by taking care of tasks that may have become challenging for you to handle on your own.
If your current home care package provider is not meeting your expectations or delivering the level of care you deserve, switching to another provider is a viable solution. The good news is that changing home care package providers in Australia is now a fee-free process. As of January 1, 2023, you cannot be charged any fees for ceasing care with your current provider.
Furthermore, you have the freedom to change providers at any time, and your current provider is obligated to support you in making the transition. To make the switch to a new home care package provider, you can follow these three easy steps:
Step 1: Search for a new provider
The number one recommendation that we suggest before changing Home Care Package provider is that you find a new provider before agreeing on an end date with your current one. This will limit issues like a gap in your home care services if you don’t have a new provider ready.
Our top tips for finding a new Home Care Package provider include:
- Use the My Aged Care Find a provider Or you can phone My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 and they will help you with your search.
- Find a local provider near you using the Aged Care Guide online. https://www.agedcareguide.com.au/
- Do Your Own Research by Google or Bing search “Home Care Providers Near Me”
If you need support or a new local home care provider you can always call the team here at Care With Quality on (03) 9374 2100 and we will be more than happy to help.
Step 2: Inform and give notice to your current home care package provider
As per the Charter of Aged Care Rights, it is your responsibility to inform your current home care provider about your intention to terminate your Home Care Agreement and discontinue receiving their home care services. It is important to review your current Home Care Agreement to understand any conditions, such as notice periods, that may be applicable.
Most home care providers typically require a notice period of 2-4 weeks to conclude a Home Care Agreement, preferably in writing. The specific notice period and exit conditions will be clearly outlined in the contract or care plan you have with your current provider.
It is crucial to note that, starting from January 1, 2023, you cannot be charged any fees for ceasing care with your provider. Additionally, your provider is obligated to assist and support you during the transition to a new home care provider.
Step 3: Notify My Aged Care and get a referral code for your new home care package provider
Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to re-activate your referral code. You’ll need this referral code to give to your new home care package provider before you can start receiving their services.
After taking these three steps you’ll be ready to enter an agreement with a new home care package provider. For more information on entering into agreements, you can read the my aged care Agreeing to services page.
If you need support or a new local home care provider you can always call the team here at Care With Quality on (03) 9374 2100 and we will be more than happy to help.
Home Care Packges
Steps to switch your
home care provider:
Search for
a new
provider
The number one recommendation that we suggest before changing Home Care Package provider is that you find a new provider before agreeing on an end date with your current one. This will limit issues like a gap in your home care services if you don’t have a new provider ready.
Inform current
provider
Inform your current home care provider about your intention to terminate your Home Care Agreement and discontinue receiving their home care services.
Most home care providers typically require a notice period of 2-4 weeks to conclude a Home Care Agreement, preferably in writing.
Notify
My Aged Care
Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to re-activate your referral code. You’ll need this referral code to give to your new home care package provider before you can start receiving their services.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you decide to switch home care package providers, your unspent funds will go with you. It’s important to note that only when you terminate your Home Care Package will any remaining unspent funds be returned to the government. Any fees you have paid but haven’t utilized will be refunded to you or your estate.
How much time do I have to switch home care package providers? Once you have agreed upon an end date with your current provider, you have a total of 56 calendar days from that date to enter into a new Home Care Agreement. If you need additional time, you can request a 28-day extension by reaching out to My Aged Care at 1800 200 422. It’s crucial to ensure that the start date with your new provider falls after the agreed-upon end date with your previous provider, without any overlapping dates.
As your home care needs are likely to change over time, there are options available to address these changes. Instead of switching home care package providers altogether, you can work with your current provider to adjust the combination of services you are receiving to better align with your evolving needs. In case your needs have significantly changed and you may require a higher-level home care package, you should contact My Aged Care at 1800 200 422 to arrange for a reassessment.
When seeking a new home care package provider, it’s essential to consider a few key factors. Look for a provider that offers the specific combination of home care services you require, in the area where you reside. They should provide these services at an affordable price while ensuring they employ qualified and dedicated support staff. It’s also important that the support workers are compatible and can establish a positive rapport with you or your loved one receiving care.
Changing home care package providers is a significant decision, and by addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to provide you with a clearer understanding of the process and considerations involved.
If you need support or a new local home care provider you can always call the team here at Care With Quality on (03) 9374 2100 and we will be more than happy to help.
