Wayly's interactive tools (Statement Decoder, Budget Calculator, Contribution Estimator) are built for the Support at Home program. CHSP works differently, so the figures on this page are general guidance drawn from Australian Government sources. Always confirm fees and eligibility with your provider and at myagedcare.gov.au. CHSP contribution amounts vary by provider.

The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), Explained for Families

By Wayly Editorial · Published 4 June 2026 · Last reviewed 4 June 2026

The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) is Australia's entry-level home care program. It helps older people who need a bit of help to keep living safely at home. If your parent gets a cleaner, a lift to appointments, or a delivered meal through the government, that is almost certainly CHSP. This page is the short version. Use it to get your bearings, then follow the links to the deeper guides.

Key facts at a glance

CHSP is for people aged 65 and over, or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
It is for lower-level needs. Most people use one or two services.
The government funds providers through grants. Your parent pays a small contribution per service.
There is no income or assets test for CHSP.
In 2024-25, 838,694 people used CHSP through 1,273 providers (ANAO).
CHSP moves into Support at Home no earlier than 1 July 2027. Nothing changes for current clients right now.

Where to go next

Parent on CHSP?
A plain English caregiver guide.CHSP vs Support at Home
Side by side, plain English.The 2027 transition
What is known, what is not.

Ask Wayly a CHSP question Classification Self-Check Letters & Follow-ups

External references: myagedcare.gov.au, health.gov.au.