Vegetarian or venison,
you’ll love our outings
Vegetarian or
venison, you’ll
love our outings
The national conversation about aged care reform, cost-of-living pressures, and access to essential supports is reshaping what it means to age well in our communities. While these reforms are proffering a fairer, safer and more person-centred system, clients tell us they are anxious about the promises of choice and control offering security, connection and dignity.
Navigating the new system: the forthcoming Support at Home Program (replacing Home Care Packages) brings new funding and fee structures from November 2025.
Aiming to simplify services and tailor care to individual needs, the new co-contribution fees for some non-clinical supports have attracted criticism. They align with the current CHSP Program: requiring client contributions to the cost of service, barring in cases of financial hardship.
At HKCT we’re working closely with the Department of Health, Aged Care, councils and advocacy partners to ensure clients understand the changes and continue to access the transport needed to stay active and connected.
Everyday life: the cost-of-living crisis effects on older Australians are distinct. Fixed retirement incomes can struggle with sudden rises in groceries, fuel or health services. Transport (crucial for independence) can become stressful due to increased costs or less local options.
Community Transport remains a critical buffer by providing safe, affordable and reliable access to appointments, shopping and outings. HKCT helps older residents maintain routines and well-being without financial strain or isolation.
Health, mobility and connection: as people live longer, staying mobile and socially connected is ever more important. Research consistently shows that older adults engaging regularly with community activities experience lower rates of depression, cognitive decline and loneliness.
Yet barriers still exist. Limited public transport reduced physical mobility, or fear of falling can make even short trips daunting. Our team know the importance of being a friendly face at someone’s door. The ‘drive’ is usually just the start of conversation, laughter and the simple reassurance of being part of a caring community.
Quality of care: after years of royal commissions and public debate, older people seek one thing above all: trust. They want to know that the care and services they receive are safe, respectful, and truly responsive to their needs.
Providers like HKCT make this commitment. Our work is part of a broader fabric of community care, with dignity, safety and kindness being fundamental (not optional) in everything we do.
Looking ahead: as reforms unfold, community organisations’ roles have never been more vital. We stand with older people, helping them navigate systems, access affordable transport, and stay connected to what matters most.
If you, or someone you care for, are uncertain about upcoming changes, please reach out. We’ll continue to share updates, advocate for fairness, and ensure that every journey (big or small) is taken with respect and care.
Costs shown are for CHSP-eligible customers only.
Thank you for understanding that prepayment of outings is preferred and appreciated by your HKCT team. It greatly assists our drivers and office team.
Charges apply to outings with luncheons or entries pre-arranged and included in your price. Reservation deadlines dictate our prepayments so, should you cancel within 3 working days of an outing (or contrary to a venue’s rules), please understand when we advise you of the non-refundable portion of your prepayment.
Our intended outings, destinations and venues are subject to NSW Health’s restrictions.
