Government support that helps older Australians remain in their homes and still receive care falls “woefully short” of what’s required to integrate internet-connected devices, according to a university-backed consortium.
The federal government’s incoming Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) scheme – effective from July 1 2025 – could provide one-off payments as low as $500 dollars, excluding access to smartphones and sensor systems.
A university-backed consortium known as the NSW Smart Sensing Network (NSSN) is trialing a care model that integrates sensors, AI, and telehealth and wants AT-HM’s lowest funding tier increased to ensure more older Australians can “live independently with dignity and improved quality of life”.
NSSN Human Health Theme Leader Catherine Oates Smith called on government to boost funding to cover more than basic items like bath chairs and step-treads if it “is serious about keeping Australians in their homes and out of hospitals”.
According to UTS research, 85 per cent of ageing Australians support the use of advanced in-home technologies and overwhelmingly endorse the use of technology to maintain their independence, and many are even open to contributing financially if it helps them avoid institutional care.
Over the past five years, acceptance of in-home technology among seniors has increased by 40 per cent. The findings highlight a significant shift in attitudes as Australians increasingly view technology as a lifeline rather than a luxury.
The NSSN argues internet of things devices are increasingly considered a “lifeline rather than a luxury”.
The Healthy at Home initiative, which is driving the adoption of emerging technologies in the home, was co-created by researchers at the University of Newcastle, University of New South Wales, and the NSSN.
It is backed by the University of Technology Sydney, University of Newcastle, University of New South Wales, University of Sydney, and Macquarie University. It was recently showcased at the third NSSN Ageing Forum on Monday.
The Healthy at Home model is also backed by three local health districts and industry partners including InteliCare and Turnstall Healthcare.
The initiative tackles critical pain points identified by the 2021 Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, including the need for more robust in-home care options and the financial sustainability of aged care services.
According to Professor Paul Egglestone, co-leader of the initiative and director of FASTLab at the University of Newcastle, “this isn’t just about technology – it’s about people. Older Australians want to stay home, and now we have the tools to make that possible.”
The Healthy at Home model aims to reduce hospitalisations and ensure personalised care, in a cost-effective but life-changing way.
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