Changes to fees and eligibility

In May this year, the Victorian Government released new guidelines for who can access Allied Health services and the fees that will apply.

This applies to people who are funded through the Community Health Program (CHP) and Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACC PYP).

Why is this changing?

The new guidelines provide a clearer way to identify who can access community health services, based on priority groups and individual circumstances rather than income. These changes are designed to support fairer access to care and make sure community health services reach the people who need them most.

The new guidelines are not based on income. Low fees are based on having an eligible concession card and Medium fees are based on being part of a priority group.

Following these changes, all Holstep Health sites will have the same eligibility and fees. We aim to keep services affordable and accessible.

Changes are for services including Allied Health Assistants, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Diabetes Education, Community Connections, Dietetics, Exercise Physiology, group programs and clinics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Speech Pathology as well as Children’s Services including Audiology.

Some programs remain zero cost: mental health services (including counselling), Gambler’s Help, social work, Care Coordination, Alcohol and Other Drugs services, Chronic Pain Service and the Carer Gateway program.

View the details here

When is it happening?

Changes will start from 3 August 2026. If you are no longer eligible for “low or medium fee” services, we will support you through this change; including if you need extra time to adjust. If you have difficulty with the full fee cost due to other circumstances, please speak to our team.

What if I have questions or concerns?

We understand that changes can raise questions. If you would like more information about how these updates may affect you or the services you access please email [email protected].