8 Things a Home Care Package Won't Get You

Posted 1st November2024 | 4 minute read

Written by Jesse Gramenz  Reviewed by Kristopher McMurdy 

Only things that are related to ‘ageing and functional decline’ and meet your assessed care needs can be funded under a Home Care Package. But what does that mean? And what are some examples of things that won’t be funded? Let's find out. 

1. A new fridge 

Even if you *really* wanted the one you can watch the footy on. This goes for other whitegoods, appliances and electronics (like TVs).

What can be funded? 

The only exceptions to this are items designed specifically for people who use certain whitegoods that support their clinical needs. 

The government gives a couple of examples like:

• People who are very frail needing a tipping kettle which doesn’t need to be lifted to pour hot water 

• A dryer or washing machine for people who suffer from severe incontinence and need to regularly clean their clothes 

2. The latest iPhone 

Laptops, phones and personal technology devices more broadly can’t be purchased with a Home Care Package. 

While some people think that this would be funded on the  grounds of social engagement for older people, unfortunately it isn’t. There are some very rare only exceptions to this such as people who are experiencing homelessness or need assistance with medication management, but generally it’s a no go. 

What can be funded? 

If you were thinking of getting a techonlogy upgrade from a social perspective, there are a variety of other services that Home Care Packages can fund that will help. 

• Transport support for trips to the shops or groups and events 

• Social support visits from home care workers who can spend time with you for a cuppa 

3. A bathroom renovation 

Bathroom in need an update? Eyeing off a new deck to replace the back patio? 

You might have to look elsewhere, because your Home Care Package isn’t going to fund it. 

Any kinds of renovations like bathroom renos, aesthetic changes like new tiles or vanities won’t be funded under Home Care Package. BUT, there are some exceptions for some changes to your home. 

What can be funded? 

Exceptions to renovations can be modifications to your home for accessibility. The funding includes any professional or clinical advice for making your home more accessible too. 

Some accessibility modifications include: 

• Wider doorways 

• Ramps for wheelchair access 

• Non slip flooring 

• Pull out drawers for the kitcen 

• Sensor lighting to improve visibility 

• Accessible shelving 

• Lower countertops 

• Rails in the bathroom

4. Already subsidized medical stuff 

Anything already covered by other medical subsidy programs, can’t be paid for or covered again through a Home Care Package. 

A few examples include: 

• Visits to the GP or other specialists already covered by Medicare 

• Buying PBS medication (antibiotics, blood pressure tablets, insulin etc.) 

• Continence aids (already funded through the Continence Aids Payment Scheme [CAPS]) 

• Certain assistive technology already funded through government programs 

• Medical equipment like ventilators, oxygen concentrators or dialysis machines already funded through state health systems 

• Diabetes management already funded through the National Diabetes Service Scheme (NDSS) 

What can be funded? 

Other health related consumables can be covered. 

Example: If you require wound care supplies, like bandages or special dressings for a chronic condition, these costs can be covered by your HCP. 

Other allied health services not covered fully by Medicare can also be paid for under a Home Care Package: 

• Podiatry 

• Physiotherapy 

• Post-surgery rehab 

• Occupational Therapy (OT)

• And more! 

5. Dinner and a movie 

While we’re all for you getting out and living your best life, a Home Care Package won’t fund it.  But if you’re assessed to have a need for social support that can be an option for you. 

What can be funded? 

HCP funds can be used to cover the cost of a social support worker who assists you with attending community events or social activities as part of your care plan. 

If social isolation is a concern, and you require assistance attending a local seniors' club or group activity, HCP funds can cover the cost of a support worker to accompany you. 

6. Your yearly cruise to Fiji 

Your ‘bula vinaka’ will have to be on your own dime, because Home Care Packages can’t pay for holidays, accommodation or leisure and travel.  

What can be funded? 

While slightly less glamorous, If you need transportation to medical appointments or health-related activities, HCP funds can be used. 

HCP funds can cover the cost of a taxi or other transport to get you to a specialist appointment or rehabilitation sessions, ensuring you're staying on top of your care needs. 

7. A free trip to the pokies 

You can’t use your Home Care Package funding for any gambling or anything considered illegal. 

What can be funded? 

HCP funds can be used for social and community engagement activities that enhance well-being and reduce isolation, as long as they are part of your care plan. 

You could use HCP funds to participate in a community bingo session at a local seniors' center, where the activity helps reduce your isolation and keep you connected in the community. 

8. A fresh set of nails at the salon 

Any non-care related personal grooming can’t be used in a home care package. That includes everything from manicures to pedicures to facial treatments to haircuts. 

BUT, there are cases where similar services can be funded. 

What can be funded? 

If your mobility issues prevent you from attending to personal grooming, HCP funds can cover basic grooming services like a hairdresser paying you a home visit. 

You can also get access to allied health professionals like podiatrists who will be able to help you with any foot related issues you have (they just won’t give you a gloss finish on your nails). 

Parting Thoughts 

While we’ve addressed some of the things that you can’t spend a Home Care Package on (and some things you can), if in doubt just ask your home care provider. At the end of the day, Home Care Packages are there to help improve your health and limit decline. And with that, there’s many areas in your life that you can meaningfully improve with the support of a Home Care Package. 

If you’re looking to change your provider, or talk to a home care package coordinator, you can call St Vincent’s on 1800 778 767 and we can help you get started.