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 Respite care is short-term care provided to older people or those with disabilities when their usual carer needs a break. It can take place in the home, in a community centre, or in a residential aged care facility. It’s designed to support both carers and the person receiving care—giving families time to rest, work, or attend to other responsibilities.

 Respite stays can range from a few hours to several weeks. In residential settings, the government subsidises up to 63 days per year, which can sometimes be extended up to 21 extra days if assessed. Home-based respite may be more flexible and tailored to your needs.

🕒 Tip: Book in advance for holiday periods or emergencies.

 Costs vary based on the type of respite and level of care needed. As a rough guide:

• Residential respite care: from $60 to $200+ per day
   
• In-home respite: often $15–$70 per hour 

A full-time week in residential respite care could cost between $420 and $1,400, depending on the facility, services provided, and funding support. Always ask providers for a breakdown of:

• Daily care fees
   
• Additional service fees
   
• Out-of-pocket expenses

These fees may be partly or fully subsidised depending on eligibility.

 Respite care is not entirely free, but many Australians receive government subsidies through:

• The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
   
• Home Care Packages (HCP)
   
• The NDIS for eligible participants with a disability
   

Your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your means assessment and the provider’s fee schedule.

 Not directly. Home Care Packages (HCP) fund home-based respite only. For residential respite care, the government uses a separate subsidy system under the Aged Care Act. You’ll need to:

• Book a place with an approved provider
   
• Have a current ACAT respite approval
   
• Cover basic daily fees (and possibly additional service fees)