Support at Home: What every podiatrist needs to know
(Part One)

I’d like to share my perspective on the government’s transition to the Support at Home program under the new , which came into effect on 1 November 2025. I am guessing that – as a podiatrist – you may be feeling uncertain about what this all means. If so, you’re definitely not alone. I hope this article will provide clarity and help to translate what all of these changes mean for podiatrists.

What you need to know

The most significant change for podiatrists right now is compliance. The Act introduces new requirements for registered providers, who must now request specific documentation from associated providers (previously known as contractors). Registered providers are accountable for service delivery and ensuring podiatrists meet a high standard of person-centred care.

Previously, missing paperwork was not a major issue. Now, registered providers will be audited on compliance and ensuring that they have all the required documentation from associated providers. While I believe this accountability is important, the rollout and timing of these changes have created challenges for both providers and podiatrists.

In my mind, there are three key impacts in motion for podiatrists (and providers). They are:

1. Additional resourcing
   If you work with multiple providers, consider the administrative load. For example, 12 clients across 12 providers means repeating compliance processes 12 times, compared to once if all clients are with a single provider.
2. Delayed communication
   Limited and late guidance from the government has made it difficult for us to prepare well. It helps to understand the impact of this – whether in regard to us setting accurate fees, planning for extra paperwork, or educating our clients. One example: Initially, podiatrists were instructed to publish fees for face-to-face time only. Later, a second line item for indirect services (e.g., admin) was introduced, requiring retrospective adjustments and potentially difficult client conversations.
3. Client communication
   Explaining these changes to clients often falls to podiatrists and registered providers. For example, fee increases compared to previous Home Care packages can be surprising for clients. It requires extra time on our part to clarify budgets and processes.

Positive changes

The good news is that there are some improvements worth noting:

• Cancellation fees: Podiatrists can now charge for cancellations within 48 hours, though this depends on provider contracts being updated to ensure this change is included.
• Budget management: Clients can no longer stockpile funds; budgets are quarterly with limited rollover – a maximum of $1,000 or 10% of the client’s budget; whichever is greater. This may help reduce the overall waitlist and improve equity in care, which is wonderful. However, it does mean that clients will have little left for emergency ad-hoc visits, such as wound care.

Pricing and what’s ahead

From July 2026, podiatrists will no longer set their own fees – the government will. Until then, there is no mandated price cap, though some registered providers may impose internal limits.

It is so important to ensure your pricing reflects the true cost of care, including travel and admin. Also note that some providers now require invoices within two days of service, due to changes in claiming patterns.

How it impacts the profession

The long-term effects remain unclear. Some podiatrists may reduce their aged care work if compliance and pricing become unsustainable. Registered providers may also consolidate or exit the market, which could reduce client access to podiatry services. Watch this space, and let’s continue to have conversations as we navigate the changes ahead.

Looking forward

The transition to Support at Home was intended to simplify aged care, but in practice, I feel it has introduced complexity. Clients may face higher costs, and podiatrists and providers will need to adapt quickly. My hope is that, by sharing these experiences, it helps others to navigate it.

Read Part Two for pricing insights and more advice, to help you adjust to the changes required by Support at Home.

More resources

• In addition to news updates on Support at Home, members of the Australian Podiatry Association can head to more resources and guides on aged care pricing and Support at Home.
  
• Decoding how podiatrists fit into the aged care system (member-only webinar)
• Join the Podiatry Aged Care Special Interest Group
• Find out more about the Australian Podiatry Association’s Special Interest Groups and the range of special interest areas – available to members only.