Private home care Australia offers families flexible, immediate support for older loved ones, while government-funded programs often involve waitlists and strict eligibility. Understanding the differences helps families make informed decisions about safety, comfort, and independence.

Both options offer valuable support, yet they work very differently. In this guide, we gently unpack the key differences so you can make an informed choice that suits your family’s needs, timing and peace of mind.

The Better Health Channel – Home Care provides practical advice on combining private and government-funded care options.

Government-funded care usually comes through programs like:

• Support at Home (Levels 1–8)
• Short-Term Restorative Care

These services are subsidised by the Australian Government and are designed to help older people live safely at home for as long as possible.

For many families, this support is essential. However, the challenge often lies in how long it takes to access the care.

After assessment and approval, many people wait months — and sometimes more than a year — for funding to be released. During this period, care needs don’t pause. Mobility may decline, falls become more likely, and family carers can quickly feel overwhelmed.

This waiting period is where many families begin exploring private home care as an immediate solution.

Private home care allows you to arrange professional care immediately, without government approval or package limits. Support can begin within days and can be increased, decreased or adjusted as needs change.

Private care can include:

• Personal care and hygiene
• Dementia support
• Hospital discharge care
• Overnight supervision
• Palliative and end-of-life support
• Short-term or ongoing respite

It offers families choice, speed and flexibility — especially during times of urgent need.

Government-funded care is generally more affordable, but the available hours are limited by your approved budget.

Private care is paid directly, meaning:

• There are no wait lists
• No capped hours
• No administrative deductions
• Care can begin instantly

Many families choose to use private care temporarily while waiting for government funding, then blend both together long term.

Government care may suit you if:

• You can safely wait
• Care needs are low to moderate
• Long-term affordability is your priority

Private care may be the right choice if:

• Support is needed right now
• Dementia or high-level care is involved
• You want consistency in carers
• Family burnout is becoming a concern

In reality, there is no wrong choice — only the right choice for your situation right now.

In today’s care landscape, more families are choosing a hybrid model — beginning with private care for immediate safety and stability, then transitioning into government-funded care once approvals come through.

This balanced approach brings reassurance, continuity and control during uncertain times.