How much is a Level 3 Home Care Package worth?

A Level 3 Home Care Package represents a significant step up in support, designed specifically for those with intermediate care needs who require frequent assistance with various day-to-day tasks.

As of March 2025, a Level 3 Home Care Package is worth approximately $40,945.70 per year. This amount reflects the increased care needs that this package is designed to address. The government contributes a daily subsidy of $112.18 (as of March 1, 2025), which translates to approximately $1,570.52 every fortnight.

This funding level enables more comprehensive support than lower-level packages, typically providing around 8 hours of personal care weekly or about 16 hours per fortnight. For many, this means receiving assistance on most days of the week, creating a reliable support structure that significantly enhances independent living.

Understanding a package's "worth"

The total annual budget available for your care and services combines the government subsidy with any required personal contributions. These contributions might include a daily fee, which for Level 3 is currently set at $12.80 or $179.20 fortnightly (as of March 20, 2025).

You might also need to pay an Income Tested Care Fee, depending on your income. This is determined through a Services Australia assessment that looks at your income (not your assets).

If your annual income exceeds $33,849.40, you may need to contribute this additional fee. Importantly, if you do pay an income-tested fee, the government reduces their subsidy by the same amount, keeping your total package value consistent while adjusting the source of funding.

Not all of this funding goes directly to hands-on care

A portion is allocated to provider fees, specifically Package Management and Care Management fees. These cover essential administrative functions and care coordination, which are necessary services that ensure your care runs smoothly, but reduce the amount available for direct care hours.

The Level 3 package represents the middle ground between lower support levels and the highest intensity care. It's appropriate for those who need regular assistance but aren't yet requiring the daily intensive support characteristic of Level 4 packages.

When selecting a provider, remember that their fee structure significantly impacts how much of your package funding translates into actual care hours. Taking time to compare providers' pricing schedules on the My Aged Care website can help maximise the value you receive from your package.