Support at Home and Second-Hand Assistive Technology: A Practical Guide

Introduction

For Australians aged 65 and over, staying safe and independent at home is a top priority. The transition from the long-standing Home Care Packages (HCP) to the Support at Home programme in July 2025 brings fresh opportunities – and new questions – around assistive technology (AT). This guide explains exactly what Support at Home offers, how AT is funded, whether you can purchase second-hand equipment, and the practical steps you need to take to maximise value-for-money.

What Is Support at Home?

Support at Home replaces the former Home Care Packages from 1 July 2025. It is a government-funded, consumer-direct model that provides aged-care recipients with a flexible budget to cover a range of services, including personal care, allied health, and assistive technology. The key differences from HCP are:

• Consumer control: Participants choose providers and allocate funds based on personal goals.
• Combined budgets: Care, reablement, and AT are pooled into a single, transparent package.
• Outcome-focused: Funding is tied to measurable improvements in independence and quality of life.

How Assistive Technology Is Funded Under Support at Home

Support at Home splits AT funding into two distinct streams:

Assistive Technology Budget

This portion covers the purchase, installation, and maintenance of equipment that directly supports daily living – such as wheelchairs, stair-lifts, or specialised communication devices. The budget is allocated based on a needs assessment conducted by an occupational therapist (OT) and approved by the participant's care manager.

Reablement Budget

The reablement budget targets short-term interventions that aim to restore or improve function. It can be used for:

• Training on new equipment
• Modifications to existing devices
• Trial periods for equipment that may later become a permanent purchase

Both streams must adhere to the overarching value-for-money requirement, meaning the chosen solution must represent the best outcome for the cost incurred.

Is Second-Hand Assistive Technology Allowed?

Yes – the Support at Home framework recognises that many high-quality AT items can be sourced second-hand, provided they meet safety and performance standards. The following conditions apply:

1. Safety compliance: The item must be in good working order, free from damage, and meet Australian Standards (AS/NZS).
2. Documentation: A valid purchase receipt, warranty information, or a certified statement of condition must be supplied.
3. Approved by the OT: The occupational therapist must confirm that the second-hand device satisfies the participant's functional needs.

Value-for-Money Requirements

Funding bodies want to ensure public dollars deliver maximum benefit. To satisfy the value-for-money test, any second-hand purchase should:

• Be competitively priced: Compare the second-hand cost to a new equivalent. Savings should be at least 30% where possible.
• Offer a reasonable lifespan: The equipment should have at least three years of usable life remaining.
• Include support: Warranty, service contracts, or accessible spare parts must be available.

If an item fails any of these criteria, the care manager may request a new purchase instead.

Who Helps You Navigate the Process?

Care Manager

The care manager acts as the primary liaison between the participant, service providers, and the funding agency. Their responsibilities include:

• Assessing eligibility for Support at Home.
• Co-ordinating the allocation of AT and reablement budgets.
• Ensuring all purchases meet value-for-money guidelines.

Occupational Therapist (OT)

The OT conducts a detailed functional assessment and recommends specific AT solutions. Their role extends to:

• Verifying that any second-hand equipment matches the participant's needs.
• Providing a written justification for the chosen device.
• Guiding the participant and carers on safe use and maintenance.

Eligible Second-Hand Equipment Types

Mobility Aids

• Manual and power wheelchairs
• Walking frames, rollators, and trekking poles
• Stair-lifts and platform lifts
• Mobility scooters (appropriate for indoor or mixed-use)

Bathroom Equipment

• Raised toilet seats and toilet frames
• Shower chairs, benches, and grab rails
• Bath lifts and transfer benches
• Non-slip mats and hand-held shower heads

Daily Living Aids

• Eating and drinking aids (e.g., adaptive cutlery, plate guards)
• Medication organisers and dispensers
• Bedside assist devices (e.g., hospital-type beds, bed-rails)
• Assistive communication devices (speech-generating devices, amplified phones)

Steps to Acquire Second-Hand Assistive Technology

1. Identify your needs: Work with your OT to produce a written list of required functions.
2. Search reputable sources: Look for charitable organisations, community resale shops, or online marketplaces that specialise in certified AT.
3. Inspect the item: Verify compliance with Australian Standards, test all moving parts, and request a condition report.
4. Gather documentation: Secure a receipt, warranty details, and a signed statement from the seller confirming the item's status.
5. Submit a funding request: Your care manager will package the OT's justification, safety evidence, and value-for-money analysis for approval.
6. Install and train: Once approved, arrange professional installation (if required) and a training session with the OT or a qualified therapist.
7. Maintain records: Keep all paperwork for future audits and for any warranty claims.

Take the Next Step

Securing affordable, safe, and appropriate assistive technology is a cornerstone of independent living for older Australians. By understanding the Support at Home funding streams, working closely with your care manager and OT, and adhering to the value-for-money guidelines, you can confidently explore high-quality second-hand solutions.

Ready to discover vetted second-hand options? Visit our dedicated page for listings, supplier contacts, and a step-by-step procurement checklist.

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