Comparing Level 3 and Level 4 Home Care Packages
As care needs increase, so does the complexity of services required to support older Australians at home. Home Care Package Levels 3 and 4 are designed for people with moderate to high needs, providing access to advanced in-home care, clinical services, and allied health support. At EnableU, we deliver these services across Canterbury Bankstown, Strathfield, Burwood, and the Inner West — helping clients remain independent, safe, and supported in familiar surroundings.
What Are Home Care Package Levels?
There are four levels of Home Care Packages (HCPs), each providing a different amount of funding based on the recipient’s care needs:
- Level 1: Basic care needs
- Level 2: Low-level care
- Level 3: Intermediate care
- Level 4: High-level care and clinical oversight
Levels 3 and 4 are often ideal for people with chronic conditions, complex disabilities, or progressive diseases who want to stay at home rather than move into residential aged care.
Level 3: Intermediate In-Home Support
Level 3 Home Care Packages are designed for individuals needing frequent support to manage daily living and health. Common services include:
- Assistance with personal care (e.g., showering, dressing)
- Medication reminders and health monitoring
- Support with household tasks and meal preparation
- Transport to appointments or social activities
- Regular visits from a physiotherapist or occupational therapist
EnableU tailors these services to match your lifestyle, language, and goals. Clients at this level typically receive 8–14 hours of care per week, depending on how funding is allocated.
Level 4: High-Level and Clinical Care
Level 4 packages are the highest level of government-funded aged care available at home. They are suited to seniors with:
- Serious mobility challenges
- Neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s, dementia)
- Post-hospital rehabilitation needs
- Multiple chronic health conditions
Services under a Level 4 package often include:
- Advanced clinical care (e.g., nursing wound care, continence support)
- Regular allied health support (physio, OT, speech therapy)
- Help with all personal care and hygiene needs
- Specialist equipment or home modifications
- Daily safety check-ins and overnight support if needed
EnableU’s professional team includes registered nurses, allied health clinicians, and multilingual carers — allowing us to manage complex needs while prioritising comfort and dignity.
How Funding Differs Between Levels 3 and 4
Each HCP level comes with a different annual subsidy provided by the Australian Government. The approximate yearly subsidy as of the current guidelines is:
- Level 3: ~$39,000 per year
- Level 4: ~$59,000 per year
This additional funding at Level 4 allows EnableU to include more complex support services, higher care hours, and access to advanced clinical tools. We help you manage the budget through transparent service agreements and regular reviews.
Choosing the Right Package Level
Choosing between Level 3 and 4 depends on your current condition, care frequency, and ability to manage independently. EnableU works with:
- ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Teams) to ensure the correct package level is approved
- You and your family to identify appropriate services under the budget
- Local care managers to adapt care plans as needs change
If you're currently on a Level 3 package and your health deteriorates, EnableU can help initiate a review or request an upgrade to Level 4.
EnableU: Supporting High-Needs Clients at Home
We understand that higher care needs require a greater level of trust and expertise. Our team is specially trained to work with clients who are:
- Recovering after stroke or surgery
- Managing dementia or memory loss
- Dealing with progressive neurological conditions
- Needing palliative support at home
We make it possible to receive comprehensive, professional care — without moving into a facility.
Need Help Deciding?
EnableU is here to guide you every step of the way — from initial package application through to high-level support at home. We’ll help you:
- Understand funding options and inclusions
- Determine which level of support fits your condition
- Build a weekly routine that meets your needs and goals
Contact your local EnableU team today to find out if a Level 3 or Level 4 Home Care Package is right for you — and how we can help you stay safe and independent in your own home.