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Domestic Support: Underating services in the Home Care Sector

Choice Community Health

Updated: Jan 19





In the realm of home care services within Australia, domestic support often flies under the radar compared to clinical services, case management, and personal care assistance (PCA). However, having worked in the community health sector for over a decade, I've seen firsthand how crucial domestic support is for both carers and participants alike. It's the backbone that allows individuals to maintain independence and quality of life, addressing the everyday tasks that many of us might take for granted.


Domestic support encompasses a wide range of services aimed at helping individuals manage their household and daily living activities. This can include tasks such as cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, shopping for groceries, and even assisting with pet care. For example, a support worker might help a participant tidy their home, ensuring it's safe and comfortable, or prepare nutritious meals that cater to specific dietary needs. These seemingly simple tasks can make a world of difference for someone who struggles with mobility or energy levels due to age or disability.


While clinical services and PCA focus on medical and personal care needs, domestic support addresses the environmental and practical aspects of daily living. It alleviates the burden on carers, who may already be stretched thin managing medical appointments and personal care routines. By taking over household chores, domestic support allows carers to spend more quality time with their loved ones or take much-needed breaks to prevent burnout.


Participants often express that assistance with household tasks is a significant contributor to their overall well-being. It not only ensures their living environment is clean and safe but also empowers them to remain in their homes longer, maintaining a sense of autonomy and dignity. For instance, helping with grocery shopping not only provides access to food but also offers social interaction and a sense of normalcy.


However, there's a growing concern within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) regarding the provision of domestic support. The low price cap set by the NDIS for these services makes it challenging for providers to offer high-quality domestic support sustainably. This price constraint can lead to difficulties in attracting and retaining skilled support workers, ultimately affecting the quality of care participants receive. Good suppliers are hard to find when the financial incentives don't match the demands of the job.


In contrast, aged care services under Home Care Packages (HCP) tend to have slightly better pricing structures, allowing for more flexibility and higher-quality domestic support services. This discrepancy means that older Australians may have better access to domestic support than those under the NDIS, despite similar needs.


The undervaluing of domestic support within the NDIS framework poses risks not just to participants but also to the sustainability of the support system as a whole. Without adequate funding and recognition of the importance of these services, participants may face increased challenges in their daily lives, potentially leading to a greater reliance on more intensive and costly clinical services down the line.


To address these issues, it's essential for policymakers and stakeholders within the NDIS to reassess the pricing and value placed on domestic support services. By acknowledging their critical role in the holistic care of participants, adjustments can be made to attract quality providers and ensure that participants receive the comprehensive support they need.


In conclusion, domestic support is a vital component of home care services that should not be underestimated. It plays a significant role in supporting both carers and participants, addressing fundamental needs that enhance independence and quality of life. By recognizing and adequately funding these services within the NDIS, we can ensure that all participants have access to the support they need to live comfortably and with dignity in their own homes.

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