The massive ‘care gaps’ exposing Australia’s aged care crisis

April 21, 2026 — 11:33am

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For months, much of the conversation about at-home aged care has centred on co-contributions – how much you pay, and how you and your family copes as hourly rates reach $300 and contribution levels climb as high as 80 per cent.

That focus is understandable, but it risks missing a bigger issue. The government’s Support at Home program is often spoken about as though it will meet your care needs – provided you can manage your share of the bill.

That’s where the danger lies. The real challenge in home care isn’t just what you contribute – it’s what isn’t covered at all. Think of these as “care gaps”.

From the moment you apply, it can take up to 12 months to receive your Support at Home package.........

© Brisbane Times