Melton City Council will adjust its delivery of aged care services, following a review of its service model in response to the Australian Government’s aged care reforms.
Council will continue delivering services under the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) until the current funding agreement expires on 30 June 2027.
However, from 1 July 2027, when the Australian Government’s new Support at Home Program replaces the CHSP, Council has decided it will not become a provider.
While Council’s role in delivering Commonwealth-funded aged care services will change, it will continue to play an important role in supporting older residents. This includes delivering a broad range of positive ageing initiatives, such as Men’s Sheds and learning and social programs at community centres and libraries.
Council will also continue to deliver the Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACC PYP) – a State funded program for people who are under 65 (or under 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islanders) who are not eligible for NDIS.
The decision not to continue to provide CHSP services follows the introduction of the Australian Government’s Aged Care Act 2024 and the new Support at Home Program, which are designed to provide older residents with greater choice, flexibility and access to specialised aged care services.
Since the reforms were introduced, Council has closely monitored its service delivery model and assessed the impact of the increased requirements for providers of these aged care services. Following this review, Council determined that it is not best placed to continue delivering these services for our community under the new program.
Residents currently receiving CHSP services from Council, including personal care, respite care, meals, social support and domestic assistance, will continue to receive these services as usual until 30 June 2027.
Council will work closely with clients, carers and families and our workforce during this time to support a smooth transition to suitable alternative providers and ensure continuity of care.
Quotes attributable to City of Melton Mayor Cr Lara Carli:
“This change will ensure our community can continue to access appropriate, flexible and comprehensive care available under the new aged care system.”
“This decision has not been taken lightly by our Council, and follows a detailed review of our ability to operate in an increasingly complex and changing aged care system.”
“The Australian Government’s aged care reforms have significantly changed the way services are funded, regulated and delivered, and after careful consideration our Council determined that it is not best placed to provide this service into the future.
“We want to reassure Commonwealth Home Support Program clients that there are no immediate changes to services, and support will continue to be provided as usual until the transition date.”
“We also want to acknowledge and thank the team that deliver these services for the dedication, professionalism and compassion they bring to supporting older members of our community. Our Council leaders are committed to supporting them throughout the transition process.”
“Our priority is to make this transition as smooth as possible while ensuring our older residents continue to receive the care and support they need.”
