How Much Does Respite Care Cost in Australia? (Short Answer)
Respite care in Australia typically costs between $30–$70 per hour for in-home or day respite, and around $64 per day for residential respite, plus any extra fees. Costs vary based on care type, subsidies, and location.
The 4 Fee Categories You May Pay
Basic Daily Fee
For residential respite, the Australian Government sets a basic daily fee, capped at approximately $63.82 per day (as of 2025). This covers daily living expenses such as meals, cleaning, and basic care.
Booking Fee
Providers may charge a booking fee equivalent to a maximum of one week's basic daily fee to secure a residential respite spot.
Extra-Service Fees
These cover additional comforts such as private rooms, enhanced meal options, or premium accommodation features.
Additional Service Fees
Optional extras such as physiotherapy, hairdressing, or specialised medical care often incur separate charges.
Cost by Respite Type
In-home Respite Care
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)-funded respite typically ranges between $29–$70 per hourdepending on location and provider.
Centre-based Day Respite
Expect fees of approximately $30–$55 per hour, depending on provider and activities offered.
Cottage & Overnight Respite
Generally, fees range from $30–$58 per hour with overnight packages averaging around $200–$350 per night.
Residential Respite
The basic daily fee is $63.82 per day (2025), with additional charges for extra services or private facilities.
Emergency Respite
Costs vary, but Carer Gateway offers significant subsidies or fee waivers for emergencies.
Government Funding & Subsidies
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
The CHSP subsidises respite care significantly, reducing out-of-pocket expenses to between $10–$20 per hour for eligible participants.
Home Care Packages (HCP)
Home Care Packages offer flexible respite options covered by your allocated package funds, significantly reducing or eliminating direct fees.
My Aged Care Residential Subsidy
Residential respite through My Aged Care receives substantial government funding, requiring only the basic daily fee, with no additional accommodation charge.
NDIS Short-Term Accommodation (STA)
NDIS-funded STA typically covers most costs, reducing personal fees significantly or entirely.
Out-of-Pocket Examples (2025)
Scenario 1: Pensioner Using CHSP
A pensioner receiving 6 hours of weekly in-home respite might pay around $90 per week after subsidies ($15/hour).
Scenario 2: Couple’s 14-Day Residential Break
A two-week residential respite stay would cost approximately $893.48 each ($63.82 daily x 14 days) plus any extras.
Scenario 3: Self-funded Retiree with Extra Services
A retiree opting for premium residential respite with additional services might pay up to $120–$180 daily, totalling approximately $2,520 for two weeks.
Financial Considerations for Carers
Carer Payment & Allowance
Short-term respite won't typically impact your Centrelink payments. However, extended stays (over 63 days/year) may affect eligibility.
Tax Offsets & Deductibility
Respite care is generally not tax-deductible, but check with your accountant for specific circumstances related to medical expenses.
Private Health Insurance
Some private health insurance extras cover may offer rebates for respite-related allied health services.
Hidden or Variable Costs to Watch
- Transport Fees: Some providers charge separately for transport to and from facilities.
- Weekend & Holiday Loading: Extra charges may apply for services provided during weekends or public holidays.
- Activity Fees: Special outings or group activities may incur additional charges.
Tips to Reduce Your Respite Bill
- Book in Advance: Securing early bookings can avoid premium rates.
- Mix Funded and Private Hours: Combining subsidised and privately-funded hours can extend your funding.
- Use Not-for-Profit Providers: Often lower cost with quality services.
- Request Fee Waivers: Providers may offer discounts or hardship assistance—always ask.
Cost Comparison Table (Downloadable)
Download our comprehensive respite care cost comparison table to easily estimate your potential expenses and plan effectively.
FAQs
Is respite care free?
Not entirely. Most respite care is government-subsidised, but a basic daily fee usually applies.
What exactly is the booking fee?
This fee secures your residential respite booking and equals up to one week's basic daily fee.
Are there any subsidies for emergency respite care?
Yes, Carer Gateway provides substantial subsidies for emergency respite.
Do respite fees vary by state?
Yes, slightly. Metropolitan areas may have higher fees compared to rural or regional locations.
