Australia’s aging population is growing fast. In 1970, older Australians (65+) made up just 8.3% of the population. By 2020, that number had doubled to 16%, and by 2066, it’s expected to reach up to 23%. With more people needing support at home, now is the perfect time to start a private home care business.
If you’re thinking about starting a home care business, this guide will walk you through the essentials—business setup, legal compliance, operations, and marketing.
With new aged care reforms like the Support at Home Program (2025), it’s critical to get your foundation right from the start. Many providers struggle with complex applications and compliance requirements. Getting expert guidance early can save you time and stress—more on that later.
Legal Foundations
Business Structure
Your business structure affects everything—from liability and taxes to registration requirements. There are three main options:
A sole trader setup is the simplest and cheapest to start, but it offers no legal separation between you and your business. A partnership is similar but involves shared ownership. If you want to scale or protect personal assets, a company structure is the safest option.
Registration & Compliance
Setting up a private home care business in Australia requires proper registration to operate legally and access government funding. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key steps:
- Register with ASIC – Choose a business name and register it with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
- Apply for an ABN – Get an Australian Business Number (ABN) through the Australian Business Register.
- NDIS Registration (if applicable) – If you plan to support individuals with disabilities, register as an NDIS provider to offer government-funded services.
- Aged Care Provider Registration – To offer government-funded aged care, apply through the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC). This involves submitting financial records, governance details, and proof of compliance with aged care standards.
With the Support at Home Program (starting July 1, 2025) replacing existing aged care schemes, the approval process is evolving. Many providers struggle with complex documentation, delaying their ability to operate. Ensuring accuracy from the start helps avoid setbacks.
Once approved, your business will be listed on the Provider Register, allowing you to deliver in-home care services under the new regulations. If you’re transitioning from an old care home model, adapting to the new framework early is key to staying compliant.
Aged Care Licensing & New Regulations
As mentioned above, the Support at Home Program will replace existing aged care schemes, introducing new compliance requirements for home care providers. This is part of the broader Aged Care Act reforms, aimed at improving service quality and oversight.
If you plan to start a private home care business, you must meet strict licensing standards, including:
- Proving Financial & Operational Stability – Demonstrate that your business can sustainably deliver care.
- Quality & Safety Compliance – Show adherence to the Aged Care Quality Standards, covering staffing, training, and service delivery.
- Regular Audits & Reporting – Providers face ongoing assessments to ensure they maintain compliance.
The application process is complex, with many businesses failing due to missing or incorrect documentation. Many providers miss critical documentation—our team ensures your application meets all standards. Getting expert support early can save time and help you navigate the new regulations smoothly.
Operations Setup
Staffing & Training
Hiring skilled and compassionate staff is essential for delivering high-quality care. Offering competitive wages and continuous training helps attract and retain top talent. Care workers should have the necessary certifications, including a Certificate III in Individual Support, First Aid and CPR certification, along with police and NDIS worker screening checks. Ongoing professional development is also crucial to ensure compliance with evolving aged care standards.
Essential Legal Documents
To run a residence care business smoothly, having the right legal documents in place is critical. Employment contracts should clearly define roles, responsibilities, and terms. Non-disclosure agreements help protect client and business data, while service agreements outline the scope of care, pricing, and expectations. Ensuring these documents are properly structured helps prevent legal issues and builds trust with both clients and employees.
Marketing Your Business
Branding & Online Presence
Before designing a logo or building a website, conducting competitor research is essential. Understanding how other providers position themselves helps you create a brand that stands out. A strong brand identity builds trust with potential clients and sets the foundation for long-term success.
At SAH Consulting, we don’t just help you get started—we position your aged care business for sustainable growth. Our team specialises in crafting impactful brands tailored for the aged care industry. We analyse market trends, assess competitor branding, and develop unique visual identities that resonate with your target audience. From designing professional logos to building user-friendly websites, we ensure that your business looks credible and attracts the right clients.
Digital Marketing
In any business, having a solid digital presence is non-negotiable. Search engine optimisation (SEO) ensures your website ranks higher in search results, making it easier for potential clients to find you. Setting up and optimising a Google My Business profile enhances visibility in local searches. Listing your services in NDIS provider directories expands your reach and credibility. A well-rounded digital marketing strategy ensures a steady flow of leads, helping your business grow in a competitive aged care market.
The Bottom Line
When you decide to start a private home care business, navigating the legal, operational, and marketing aspects can feel overwhelming. From choosing the right business structure to meeting aged care licensing requirements, every step requires careful planning. Ensuring compliance with the new Support at Home Program adds another layer of complexity, but getting it right from the start will save you time and stress in the long run.At SAH Consulting, we make the process seamless. Whether you need help with registration, compliance, or marketing, our team ensures your business is set up for success. Ready to register for the Support at Home Program? SAH Consulting handles the paperwork so you can focus on providing quality care. Need a marketing plan? Let’s talk.