Consumer-directed care (CDC) is a flexible service delivery model where the client is able to determine what services they receive and who they want to deliver those services. The package is still held by the agency of their choice on their behalf but the client or package holder determines:

• What services they receive – services are not restricted to ‘service types’ as is the case under the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP); a package holder can also purchase items of equipment which will help them to maintain their independence at home.
• Who is to provide those service – a package holder can decide who is to deliver the services they want and can ‘shop around’ for a service that suits them and at a price they deem value for money; they can purchase services from more than one provider.
• Who is the case manager – a package holder can decide to manage their resources themselves or decide to have their package managed by an agency; if the latter, the agency will charge a fee for the service.

In all cases, there are some limitations on how package funds can be used.