Support at Home: Understanding the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme
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As we settle into the launch of the Support at Home Program, active since 1 November 2025, one of the most practical and impactful components is the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme. For many older Australians, small changes to the home or the addition of basic equipment can make a big difference in maintaining independence, safety, and quality of life.
At Home Care Assistance Australia, we’re here to break down what this scheme means, what’s included, how the funding works, and how you or your loved one can take advantage of it as part of your broader home care plan.
What is the AT-HM Scheme?
The Assistive Technology and Home Modifications stream is a specialised funding option within the Support at Home Program, providing financial support for equipment and home improvements that make everyday life easier and safer for older adults.
This funding is separate from your regular quarterly care budget, which means you don’t have to compromise on essential personal or clinical care to make vital improvements to your home environment.
Whether it’s a simple grab rail in the bathroom or a full accessible bathroom renovation, the AT-HM scheme is designed to help you reside safely at home for longer.
What Can Be Funded Under AT-HM?
The AT-HM Scheme is split into three tiers to match the complexity and cost of the support needed:
Low Tier (Up to $500)
Simple, low-cost modifications or items that enhance safety and mobility:
- Grab rails
- Non-slip mats
- Tap turners
- Shower stools
- Bed poles or safety bedrails
These are typically quick to implement and don’t require extensive assessment or clinical input.
Medium Tier (Up to $2,000)
Moderately priced items that require basic assessment or setup:
- Adjustable chairs
- Walking frames or rollators
- Hand-held shower heads
- Sensor lighting
- Over-bed tables
- Shower commodes
These often require an allied health professional to assess suitability.
High Tier ($15,000+)
Significant structural modifications or specialised assistive technology requiring clinical justification and approval:
- Accessible bathroom renovations
- Stair lifts or chair lifts
- Ramps for wheelchair access
- Kitchen modifications for easier reach
- Hospital beds
- Ceiling hoists
- Complex communication devices
These higher-cost improvements are typically reserved for those with advanced care needs and must be supported by health professionals such as occupational therapists or physiotherapists.
How Does the Funding Work?
Unlike the regular Support at Home funding, which is allocated quarterly for day-to-day services, the AT-HM scheme is needs-based and applied separately.
Here’s how the process generally works:
Assessment: A clinical or allied health professional assesses your home and needs.
Quote: A quote is provided for the recommended equipment or modifications.
Approval: Funding is reviewed and approved based on your Support at Home level and safety requirements.
Installation/Purchase: Once approved, the modification is made, or the device is delivered.
Review: Your provider, such as Home Care Assistance, checks in to ensure the solution meets your needs.
As your care provider, we’ll help coordinate every step, ensuring you receive the right equipment and support to improve your home and your safety.
Why Is This Important?
For many older Australians, a fall in the bathroom or difficulty moving around the house is a key trigger for leaving the home they love. The AT-HM Scheme is a preventative approach, allowing people to age in their home confidently, reduce hospital visits, and maintain their dignity and independence.
This scheme is particularly valuable for those:
- Recovering from a hospital stay
- Living with chronic conditions or disability
- Transitioning from short-term to long-term care at home
- Facing early-stage dementia or mobility challenges
How Can Home Care Assistance Help?
At Home Care Assistance Australia, we offer more than just personal care, we help manage the entire Support at Home journey, including:
- Organise the clinical assessments needed to access AT-HM funding
- Recommend safe, cost-effective solutions suited to your home and lifestyle
- Manage installations, deliveries, and ongoing support
- Ensure all services are tailored around your broader care plan
Whether you need a simple handrail installed next week or are planning a major home modification as part of your long-term support, we’re here to make it happen.
The Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme under Support at Home is an essential, game-changing initiative that can improve safety, mobility, and independence for thousands of older Australians.
If you or your loved one is considering ageing in place, it’s worth learning what improvements can be made before a crisis occurs. If you’d like to learn more about the various pathways, click here.
Support at home from a specialist provider, such as Home Care Assistance, can bring enormous benefits and comfort to your quality of life while living independently at home. Home Care Assistance offers viable solutions for supporting independent living. For more information, get in touch with a Home Care Assistance near me today.
