Regional Victorian Council bucks trend to continue delivering home care services
From 1 July 2025, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), the Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme will merge into the new Government run In-Home Aged Care program
At a confidential meeting of the Council on Tuesday 17 October, Mount Alexander Shire Councillors unanimously voted in support of the Council continuing to provide aged care services in the region, 125km northwest of Melbourne. As the home care sector undergoes significant national reforms, with more to come, the Council has conducted an extensive review of its aged care services. “During our review, current clients and their families overwhelmingly told us how much they value the aged care services that we offer,” said Mayor Rosie Annear.
Seven Mount Alexander Shire Councillors outside Castlemaine Town Hall.
“Older residents told us they feel cared for and respected by our staff – and that’s really important to us.”
The Council has approximately 50 staff members who deliver aged care services to more than 800 residents in the shire. From 1 July 2025, the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), the Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Programme will merge into the new Government run In-Home Aged Care program. The new model will mean home care providers have to expand their range of services, which is posing a challenge to Victorian Councils in terms of governance, compliance, and financial implications. The SOURCE: Mount Alexander Shire Council’s decision comes as dozens of regional Victorian councils opt out of home care, including Buloke Shire Council, Loddon Shire Council, and more. Will its decision pay off?
