Simple, Stress-Free Access to Quality Care
Navigating the aged care system can feel overwhelming, but at RusCare, we're dedicated to making the process simple and stress-free. Whether you're seeking support through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or comprehensive care via Support at Home, our experienced team guides you every step of the way - in Russian and English.
No Waiting List - Start Services Immediately!
One of the biggest improvements in Support at Home is the elimination of the national waiting list. Unlike the previous Home Care Packages Programme where thousands of people waited months or even years, you can now start services immediately after your assessment and approval.
This means you get the support you need when you need it, not months down the track. Once you're approved, simply choose RusCare and we'll begin your personalised care plan straight away.
Russian-Speaking Support Throughout Your Journey
At RusCare, we understand that discussing care needs is easier in your native language. Our bilingual staff provide support in Russian and English at every stage:
- Explaining the assessment process in Russian
- Developing care plans with cultural sensitivity
- Coordinating services in your preferred language
- Regular communication and support from Russian-speaking staff
- Understanding Russian cultural values and preferences
Your Three-Step Journey
Accessing Support at Home services with RusCare follows a straightforward three-step process. We're here to support you at every stage with expertise, compassion, and cultural understanding.
Getting Started
Begin your care journey by understanding your options and completing your aged care assessment. We provide personalised assistance to help you navigate eligibility requirements, assessments, and application processes - ensuring you have all the information needed to make informed decisions.
What You'll Learn: Contact My Aged Care • Complete your assessment • Receive your classification • Choose RusCare • No waiting list!
Learn About Getting StartedCare Planning
Once you're approved for services, we collaborate with you to develop a customised care plan that aligns with your individual needs, goals, and cultural preferences. With 8 classifications and flexible quarterly budgets, you choose the service mix that best suits your lifestyle.
What You'll Learn: Understanding your budget • Choosing services • Service categories • Contribution rates • Cultural preferences
Learn About Care PlanningOngoing Support
Your wellbeing is our ongoing commitment. We provide consistent, high-quality support with regular reviews and adjustments to your care plan. Our dedicated team maintains open communication, ensuring you and your family are always informed, involved, and receiving the care you need.
What You'll Learn: Regular reviews • Quarterly budget cycles • Re-assessment process • Care adjustments • Quality assurance
Learn About Ongoing SupportUnderstanding Support at Home
Support at Home replaced the Home Care Packages programme from 1 November 2025. The new system offers more precise funding levels, no waiting list, and greater flexibility in how you use your support.
8 Classifications Replace 4 Levels
Support at Home uses 8 classifications (1-8) instead of the previous 4 Home Care Package levels. This provides more precise funding tailored to your specific needs:
- Classifications 1-3: Basic to low-moderate support for daily living tasks
- Classifications 4-6: Moderate to high support including clinical care
- Classifications 7-8: Very high to maximum support with comprehensive clinical care
Your classification is determined during your aged care assessment based on your individual needs and circumstances. Each classification comes with a quarterly budget that you can spend on approved services.
Three Service Categories
All services fall into one of three categories, each with different contribution rates based on your means test:
- Clinical Care (0% contribution): Nursing, allied health, medication management - fully government-funded
- Independence Support (5-50% contribution): Personal care, transport, social support
- Everyday Living (17.5-80% contribution): Domestic assistance, meal preparation, shopping
This means essential health care is always free, while other services have moderate contributions based on your financial situation.
Quarterly Budgets & Flexibility
Unlike the previous annual budgets, Support at Home operates on quarterly budget cycles (every 3 months). This provides:
- Fresh budget every quarter based on your classification
- Ability to change your service mix anytime within your budget
- Carry over unused funds (up to $1,000 or 10%, whichever is greater)
- Regular reviews to ensure your plan meets your current needs
- Request re-assessment if your circumstances change significantly
Ready to Start Your Care Journey?
Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of accessing Support at Home services. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to begin your assessment, we're here to help - in Russian and English.
What Makes RusCare Different
For nearly 70 years, RusCare has been Victoria's trusted provider of culturally sensitive aged care services to the Russian-Australian community. Here's why families choose us:
70 Years of Experience
Established in 1955, we bring decades of expertise in aged care and deep understanding of the Russian-Australian community's unique needs.
Bilingual Staff
Russian-speaking care workers, nurses, and coordinators who communicate in your preferred language and understand your cultural background.
Cultural Expertise
Respect for Orthodox Christian traditions, Russian cuisine preferences, and cultural values that matter to you and your family.
No Waiting List
Start services immediately after your assessment and approval. No more waiting months for care to begin.
Comprehensive Services
Full spectrum of care from domestic assistance to clinical nursing, all coordinated through one trusted provider.
Family-Centred Care
We involve your family in care planning and decision-making, respecting the important role family plays in Russian culture.
Essential Support at Home Resources
Explore these comprehensive guides to understand every aspect of the Support at Home programme and how RusCare can support you.
Support at Home Overview
Complete guide to the Support at Home programme and what it means for you
8 Classifications Explained
Detailed breakdown of all 8 classifications and what services each includes
Eligibility & Application
Understand if you're eligible and learn the complete application process
Pricing Guide
Understand quarterly budgets and contribution rates by service category
All Services
Explore our full range of personal care, clinical, and support services
FAQs
Answers to common questions about Support at Home and RusCare services
Let's Begin Your Care Journey Together
With nearly 70 years of experience serving Melbourne's Russian-Australian community, RusCare is your trusted partner in aged care. Our bilingual team is ready to guide you through every step of accessing Support at Home services. Contact us today to get started.
