Service explainer
Respite under Support at Home
Respite is one of the most valuable services for family carers. It is a planned break, ranging from a few hours in the home to multiple nights in a residential setting. Respite reduces carer burnout and helps the household sustain home based care for longer.
What this page covers
- Funded under Independence with the matching contribution
- Three formats: in-home, centre-based, residential overnight
- Up to 63 days of residential respite per year is available outside the quarterly budget
- Plan in advance. Quality respite providers book out weeks ahead
Three formats of respite
- In-home respite — a support worker stays with the participant for a few hours while the family carer rests or runs errands
- Centre-based respite — the participant attends a day centre with activities and meals while the carer has a longer break
- Residential respite — overnight stays from one to several weeks at an aged care facility, often used during illness or family events
How to plan respite well
Quality respite is in high demand, especially school holidays and the Christmas period. Talk to your case manager three to six months ahead. Get the participant comfortable with the venue or worker through a short familiarisation visit. Make sure medication and care plans are clearly written for the relief team.
Residential respite is partly funded under a separate scheme outside Support at Home. Your case manager can apply for up to 63 days per year. The 63 days renew each financial year.
Frequently asked questions
Is respite ever an emergency option?
Yes. Emergency respite is available when the family carer is unwell, hospitalised, or otherwise unable to provide care. Call your provider or Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737.
Does my parent have to know it is respite?
How it is framed is up to the household. Many families call it a visit or a stay, which can ease the transition.