What Does CHSP Cover for Physiotherapy?
The CHSP provides entry-level support for older Australians who need help to stay living at home. Physiotherapy is one of the services it can fund.
What Is the CHSP?
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) is an Australian Government-funded program that provides entry-level support services to help older people live independently at home for longer. It is designed for people who need some help with daily tasks but do not yet need the more comprehensive support provided through the Support at Home program (formerly Home Care Packages).
CHSP services include a range of support types, and allied health services - including physiotherapy - are one of the categories available. Physiotherapy under CHSP is typically short-term and goal-focused, aimed at helping you maintain or improve your physical function so you can continue living independently.
The CHSP is being progressively integrated into the new Support at Home program. The Australian Government has indicated that existing CHSP clients will be transitioned to the new system, but for now, the CHSP continues to operate and accept new referrals.
Who Is Eligible for CHSP?
To be eligible for CHSP services including physiotherapy, you generally need to meet the following criteria:
- Age 65 or over - or 50 and over if you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. This lower age threshold recognises the earlier onset of age-related health conditions in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- Living at home - the CHSP is designed to support people living in the community (including retirement villages), not those already in residential aged care facilities.
- Needing some help to stay independent - you have been assessed through My Aged Care as needing entry-level support to maintain your independence and continue living at home safely.
The process starts with a phone call to My Aged Care (1800 200 422) or an online registration. An assessor will then contact you to discuss your needs and determine what services you are eligible for.
What Does CHSP Cost?
CHSP services are subsidised by the government, but there is usually a small client contribution. The contribution amount varies between service providers and is not means-tested in the same way as Support at Home. It is intended to be affordable and does not reflect the full cost of the service.
The client contribution for CHSP allied health services like physiotherapy is typically a nominal amount per session. If cost is a concern, discuss this with the service provider when you first enquire. Some providers may reduce or waive the contribution in cases of financial hardship.
Key difference from Support at Home: Under the Support at Home program, Clinical Care services like physiotherapy have no client contribution. Under CHSP, a small contribution usually applies. If you need ongoing or more intensive physiotherapy, the Support at Home program may be a more appropriate option as the government covers the full cost of clinical services.
What Types of Physiotherapy Are Covered?
CHSP can fund physiotherapy that supports you to maintain or improve your physical function and independence. Common types of physiotherapy covered under CHSP include:
Falls Prevention and Balance
Falls risk assessment, balance exercises, and gait training to help reduce your risk of falling at home. This is one of the most common reasons people access physiotherapy through CHSP.
Mobility and Strength
Exercise programs to maintain or improve your ability to walk, get in and out of chairs, manage stairs, and perform other physical tasks that are important for independent living.
Pain Management
Short-term physiotherapy for musculoskeletal pain conditions such as arthritis, back pain, or joint stiffness that are affecting your ability to manage daily activities.
Post-Hospital Recovery
Short-term physiotherapy after a hospital admission or surgery to help you recover and return to your previous level of function. This is often time-limited and focused on specific goals.
How to Access Physiotherapy Through CHSP
The process to access CHSP-funded physiotherapy involves a few steps:
Contact My Aged Care
Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or register online. They will ask about your needs and arrange an assessment. Your GP or a family member can also contact My Aged Care on your behalf with your consent.
Assessment
A Regional Assessment Service (RAS) assessor will contact you, usually for a phone or home-based assessment. They will discuss your needs, goals, and what services might help you. If they determine you are eligible for CHSP, they will refer you to appropriate service providers.
Referral to a physiotherapy provider
Once approved, you can be referred to a CHSP-funded physiotherapy provider. You may also be able to choose your preferred provider from those available in your area. The provider will contact you to arrange your first appointment.
CHSP vs Support at Home: What Is the Difference?
The CHSP and Support at Home program serve different levels of need. Understanding the difference can help you determine which is more appropriate for your situation.
CHSP (Entry-Level)
Designed for people with lower-level needs who need some help to maintain independence. Services are typically shorter-term and goal-focused. A small client contribution usually applies for most services including physiotherapy. Good for people who need occasional support rather than ongoing, regular services.
Support at Home (Comprehensive)
Designed for people with greater or more complex care needs. Provides a coordinated package of services with a dedicated care coordinator. Clinical Care services like physiotherapy have no client contribution. Better for people who need regular, ongoing physiotherapy as part of a broader care plan.
If your needs increase beyond what CHSP can provide, you can be reassessed for the Support at Home program. For a full overview of all funding options, visit our funding and payment options page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CHSP physiotherapy free?
CHSP physiotherapy is heavily subsidised by the government, but a small client contribution usually applies. The amount varies between providers. If cost is a concern, discuss this with the provider - some may reduce or waive the contribution in cases of financial hardship.
How do I get a CHSP referral for physiotherapy?
The process starts with contacting My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or registering online. A Regional Assessment Service (RAS) assessor will then assess your needs and, if eligible, refer you to a CHSP-funded physiotherapy provider in your area.
What is the difference between CHSP and a Home Care Package?
CHSP provides entry-level support for people with lower-level needs, while the Support at Home program (formerly Home Care Packages) provides more comprehensive, coordinated care for people with greater needs. Under Support at Home, Clinical Care services like physiotherapy have no client contribution, whereas CHSP usually has a small co-payment.
Content reviewed by Jovi Villanueva, AHPRA Registered Physiotherapist (PHY0001876394), Principal Physiotherapist at Wellworx Physio.
Last updated: March 2026
Need Help Accessing CHSP Physiotherapy?
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