Between 5 November and 7 December 2025, we gathered feedback on proposed changes to aged care services in Port Phillip. We heard from approximately 180 people. Participants told us they were worried about service gaps during the changes and about the importance of maintaining trusted relationships with other clients.

On Wednesday 18 February 2026, Councillors considered the engagement findings and made a range of decisions about the future delivery of aged care services in Port Phillip. This includes creating a larger Linking Neighbours Program, continuing the Community Connector Program and the Hop On Hop Off bus. Council will relinquish Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) funded support services (e.g. social support group, transport and delivered meals) back to the Commonwealth.

You can read these decisions in the Council meeting minutes or view the meeting online.

Our Engagement Report summarises the feedback we heard from community members in 2025.

Council is committed to helping older residents age positively, staying connected, independent, and well-supported in our community.

In line with this commitment, we're proposing to increase our direct investment in Council-funded aged care services each year and provide services designed locally to better meet the needs of our community.

At the same time, we're considering stepping back from delivering Commonwealth-funded aged care services. This change responds to national reforms that are making it harder for councils—especially those with smaller programs—to continue delivering these services effectively.

If Council decides to step back from these Commonwealth-funded services, the Australian Government will ensure other qualified providers continue to deliver them.

We understand that aged care has already seen many changes, and that more updates can feel uncertain. Our priority is to ensure older people and their families continue to receive high-quality, compassionate support that reflects their needs.

PLEASE NOTE: THESE EVENTS HAVE NOW TAKEN PLACE.

You were warmly invited to drop in at any of the times listed below. Friendly staff were available to chat, listen to your feedback, answer questions, and share helpful information.