Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) | RusCare Melbourne

Table of Contents

Overview of CHSP

Discover the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP)—a government-funded initiative that helps older Australians maintain their independence at home. Learn how CHSP provides entry-level support tailored to your needs, focusing on wellness and reablement to enhance your quality of life.

CHSP Services

Explore the comprehensive range of services offered under CHSP by RusCare. From personal care and domestic assistance to social support and transport, see how our tailored services can help you live comfortably and confidently in your own home.

Eligibility and Application

Find out if you're eligible for CHSP services and understand the simple steps to apply. We guide you through the assessment process, helping you access the support you need with ease and confidence.

At RusCare, we are committed to providing accessible, high-quality aged care services to help you maintain your independence and quality of life.

The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) is a key component of our services, offering entry-level support for seniors who need assistance with daily tasks.

This page serves as a comprehensive guide to help you understand CHSP, the services we offer under this program, and how you can access them.

Overview of CHSP

What is the Commonwealth Home Support Program?

The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) is an Australian Government initiative that provides entry-level support services to older Australians who need assistance to continue living independently at home and in their community.

CHSP focuses on working with you, rather than doing for you, to help you maintain your independence for as long as possible.

Key Features of CHSP

  • Entry-Level Support: Ideal for seniors who need basic assistance with daily tasks.
  • Wellness and Reablement Approach: Focuses on helping you improve your ability to perform daily activities.
  • Flexible Services: Offers a range of services that can be tailored to your needs.
  • Cost-Sharing Model: Government-funded with a small contribution from you, based on your capacity to pay.

Who is CHSP For?

CHSP is designed for:

  • Older Australians: Generally aged 65 years or over (50 years or over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people).
  • Those Needing Basic Support: Individuals who require assistance with daily living tasks to remain at home.
  • Carers: Providing respite services to support those who care for seniors.

CHSP helps you stay independent and connected to your community.

CHSP Services

At RusCare, we offer a comprehensive range of CHSP services to support your independence:

Personal Care

  • Assistance with Daily Activities: Bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
  • Mobility Support: Help with moving around your home safely.
  • Meal Preparation: Assistance with preparing meals that meet your dietary needs.

Domestic Assistance

  • Household Tasks: Cleaning, laundry, and basic home maintenance.
  • Shopping Assistance: Help with grocery shopping and errands.
  • Meal Services: Delivery of prepared meals if required.

Social Support

  • Companionship: Regular visits for conversation and social interaction.
  • Group Activities: Participation in community events and cultural programs.
  • Technology Assistance: Help with using devices to stay connected.

Transport Services

  • Travel Assistance: Transport to medical appointments, shopping centers, and social engagements.
  • Accessible Vehicles: Options available for those with mobility aids.

Respite Care

  • In-Home Respite: Temporary care at home to give your regular carer a break.
  • Community Respite: Participation in group activities while providing respite for carers.

Allied Health Services

  • Physiotherapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Podiatry
  • Nutrition Advice

Home Maintenance and Modifications

  • Safety Installations: Grab rails, ramps, and other modifications to enhance safety.
  • Minor Repairs: Basic home maintenance tasks to ensure a safe living environment.

 

Our services are designed to support your independence and enhance your quality of life.

Eligibility and Application

Who is Eligible for CHSP?

You may be eligible for CHSP if you are:

  • 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people).
  • In need of assistance with daily tasks to live independently at home.
  • A carer of an older person who requires respite services.

How to Apply for CHSP Services

Step 1: Contact Us

Step 2: Complete a Home Support Assessment

  • An assessor from the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) will contact you to arrange a face-to-face assessment at your home.
  • They will discuss your needs, preferences, and goals to determine the appropriate level of support.

 

Step 3: Receive Approval and Referral Codes

  • If approved, you will receive a referral code for each service you are eligible for.

 

Step 4: Choose RusCare as Your Service Provider

  • Contact Us: Provide us with your referral codes.
  • Develop a Care Plan: We’ll work with you to create a personalized care plan.
  • Service Agreement: Sign an agreement outlining the services, schedule, and any contributions.

 

Step 5: Begin Receiving Services

  • Our team will start providing support as per your care plan.

We are here to guide you through every step of the process.

Costs and Contributions

  • Government Funding: The majority of service costs are covered by the government.
  • Client Contribution: A small fee may be required based on your income and capacity to pay.
  • Transparent Fees: We provide clear information about any costs involved.

 

No one will be denied services if they cannot afford to contribute.

Benefits of Choosing RusCare for CHSP

Cultural Sensitivity

  • Russian-Speaking Staff: Communication in your preferred language.
  • Cultural Understanding: Services that respect your traditions and customs.

Personalised Care

  • Tailored Services: Customised care plans to meet your specific needs.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Services arranged at times that suit you.

Professional Team

  • Qualified Staff: Experienced professionals trained in aged care.
  • Continuous Training: Ongoing education to provide the best care possible.

Community Engagement

  • Social Activities: Opportunities to participate in community and cultural events.
  • Support Networks: Connections with other seniors and community resources.

Quality Assurance

  • Accredited Provider: Compliance with all government regulations and standards.
  • Client Feedback: Regular reviews to ensure satisfaction and continuous improvement.

 

Choose RusCare for compassionate, high-quality support that feels like family.

Frequently Asked Questions

CHSP provides entry-level support for those needing basic assistance, while HCP offers more comprehensive, coordinated care for individuals with higher or more complex needs.

Generally, no. Once you are assigned a Home Care Package, you will transition from CHSP to HCP services.

The assessment process typically takes a few weeks, but timing can vary. We recommend contacting My Aged Care as soon as possible to begin.

If your needs change, we can adjust your care plan accordingly. If you require more support, we can assist you in applying for a Home Care Package.

You may be asked to contribute a small fee based on your income and ability to pay. We are committed to ensuring services are accessible regardless of financial circumstances.

Contact Us

We’re Here to Help

If you have any questions or need assistance with the CHSP process, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Further Resources

Enhance your understanding of the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) by exploring these valuable resources:

  • Commonwealth Home Support Programme – My Aged Care

    Learn more about the CHSP, the types of services available, and how they can help you stay independent at home.

    Visit the My Aged Care CHSP Page

  • Commonwealth Home Support Programme – Department of Health

    Access detailed information about the CHSP directly from the Australian Government’s Department of Health, including policies and program updates.

    Visit the Department of Health CHSP Page

  • Connect with CHSP Providers – My Aged Care

    Find and connect with CHSP service providers in your area through the My Aged Care website.

    Find CHSP Providers