Starting November 1, Australians utilizing the Support at Home program will receive clinical services such as nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, continence aid, and nutrition at no cost.

However, fees will be introduced for non-clinical services, which include tasks like cleaning, shopping, and personal care, with charges determined by the participant’s income level.

Individuals receiving a part-time pension will face charges ranging from five to 50 percent, while those who are self-funded retirees will be responsible for the entire 50 percent fee.

For everyday living aid including cleaning, meal preparation, gardening, and home upkeep, pensioners will contribute 17.5 percent, self-funded retirees will cover 80 percent, and part-time pensioners will be charged an intermediate rate.

Penny Allman-Payne, the Greens spokesperson for older individuals, expressed concern, stating, “A wave of co-payments is about to impact older Australians.”

She further emphasized, “The inability to access necessary care can have disastrous effects on the elderly.”

Aged Care Minister Sam Rae says the changes will help older people “get the support they need to stay at home for longer”.

But shadow health minister Anne Ruston labelled Rae’s comments “a cruel hoax”.

“The government has absolutely dropped the ball when it comes to making older Australians aware of the implications of these changes,” Ruston said.