Changes to Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) | VMCH

From 1 November 2025, the current Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Program will be replaced by the new Restorative Care Pathway.

In summary:

• Short-Term Restorative Care Program will be replaced by the Restorative Care Pathway from 1 November
• The new pathway will focus on intervention to prevent or delay the need for longer-term care
• 12 weeks of care are now offered through the program
• Funding has increased to $12,000 with potential access to more.

Introducing the new Restorative Care Pathway

From 1 November 2025, the current Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) Program will be replaced by the new Restorative Care Pathway, a change that means more support will be available to more people.

The number of places available each quarter will more than double (from 2,269 to 5,000), helping even more older Australians access early, targeted care to help them stay independent for longer.

What is the Restorative Care Pathway?

The Restorative Care Pathway is designed to help older people regain strength and function, and delay or avoid the need for longer-term care. The focus is on early intervention and prevention, with services tailored to each person’s goals and needs.

You’ll be assessed for the program as part of your aged care assessment.

Want to discuss home care options?

Contact us to connect with a friendly expert for a relaxed, no-pressure conversation. 

What's changing?

• Longer support: The new program offers up to 12 weeks of care (an increase from the current eight weeks under STRC) 
• More flexibility: In certain situations, support may be extended to a total of 16 weeks 
• Better access: People can access the Pathway twice within a 12-month period, but not in consecutive quarters 
• Increased funding: The standard budget for the 12-week program is around $12,000, with the potential for an additional $6,000 where needed. 

What kind of support is provided?

The program is strongly focused on allied health services, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and other supports that help people rebuild strength, mobility and confidence.

VMCH offers a wide range of allied health services and is an approved provider of both the current STRC Program and the new Restorative Care Pathway. VMCH care partners provide dedicated support throughout the program, working alongside participants to tailor services and help achieve personal goals.To find out more, contact VMCH for a no-pressure conversation with a member of the team.