Waiting for Government Aged Care Support? Why Private Home Care Might Be More Cost Effective Than You Think

If you’ve applied for a government-funded Home Care Package (HCP), you’re likely already aware of one frustrating truth: you could be waiting months, even up to a year, before your approved services start.

In the meantime, your loved one still needs support. That’s where private home care comes in.

At Care Sphere, we believe families shouldn’t have to choose between waiting and struggling. In fact, many families are surprised to learn that private care can be more cost-effective than they expect, especially when used strategically during the waiting period.

The Problem: Long Waitlists, Growing Needs

Australia’s aged care system, while well-intentioned, is under strain. Even after an ACAT/ACAS assessment, the wait for your HCP to be assigned and activated can take 6–12 months.

During that time:

• • The family often picks up the caring burden

• • Health and safety risks can increase

• • Delaying help can lead to hospital admissions or permanent residential care

The Solution: Private Support That Fills the Gap

With private home care, you can:

• • Get help immediately (within days)

• • Choose exactly what services you need

• • Adjust support hours as circumstances change

• • Avoid carer burnout and protect your loved one’s health

Even better? You don’t need to commit to large packages or ongoing costs. Care Sphere’s boutique approach means you only pay for the support you use.

Is Private Care Actually Cost Effective?

Yes! Especially when compared to the hidden costs of going without care.

Without private support:

• • You may need emergency respite or hospital stays

• • Family members may reduce work hours or burn out

• • Missed medication or poor nutrition can accelerate decline

With private support:

• • Services start fast (from $55/hour, no admin fees)

• • Costs can be shared across family members

• • Preventative care avoids larger medical bills later

• • You stay in control of your time, stress and choices

Plus, once your Home Care Package becomes available, we’ll help you transition seamlessly, often using the same trusted carer.

Can I Switch From Private to HCP Later?

Absolutely. In fact, many of our private clients later convert to HCP funded care with no disruption in service. We’ll assist with:

• • Service setup

• • Documentation

• • Ongoing service planning

Your continuity of care is our priority.

Real Story: How Private Care Helped This Family Bridge the Gap

“We were quoted a 9-month wait for a Level 3 HCP. My dad needed help right away. We started with just 6 hours of private care a week, and honestly it saved us. When his package finally came through, Care Sphere helped us shift seamlessly. And we still have the same carer today.”
– Elias, Oakleigh VIC

A Strategic, Short Term Investment

Think of private care as a temporary, targeted investment:

• • Use it while you wait

• • Control your budget

• • Avoid the health decline that often comes from waiting too long

At Care Sphere, there’s no minimum commitment. Start with as little or as much as you need, and adjust week to week.

 Ready to Get Support While You Wait?

If you’re waiting for government-funded aged care but need help now, we’re here for you.

 Call 1300 240 828 or

 Book your free consultation to explore your options.

Private care doesn’t have to be expensive and waiting doesn’t have to be painful.