Understanding respite care: How it works, where it’s delivered and how to pay for it

The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention. – Oscar Wilde

All of us at CareAbout deeply appreciate the vital role that carers play in our communities, especially those unpaid carers who give so much of themselves. The good news is that the government recognises this too, offering respite care to help carers take a well-deserved break while ensuring their loved ones are well looked after.

What is respite care?

Respite care provides temporary relief for carers, giving them a chance to rest, recharge or attend to their own needs, knowing their loved ones are in safe hands. Whether you need a few hours or a few days of support, respite care is designed to ease the burden on carers.

Where can respite be delivered?

In-home respite: Services come to you, allowing carers to take a break while their loved one stays at home, even overnight. This can be funded through a Home Care Package or paid for privately.
Day centres: Care recipients attend programs during the day, giving carers time to focus on their own health and wellbeing. Day centres typically operate from 10 am to 3 pm, and transportation may be included. Government subsidies are available through the Commonwealth Home Support Program or your Home Care Package.
Cottage-style accommodation: For overnight stays, community-based respite is provided in a homely, cottage-style environment with 24-hour support.
Residential care: Temporary stays in an Aged Care Home are available for planned or emergency situations. Up to 63 days of subsidised care are available each year, with an option to extend by 21 days if necessary.

How to pay for respite care

Residential respite: If approved by My Aged Care, the government covers most of the fees. Carers are responsible for a contribution, which is currently set at 85% of the single basic age pension. As of October 2024, this equates to a maximum daily fee of $63.57.

Some providers may offer additional services, such as premium meals or streaming options, which are not covered by the government. Be sure to check for any extra charges before entering into respite care.
Private respite: In some situations you may wish to use your Home Care Package funds to cover the full cost of respite in an Aged Care Home with no other government subsidies applied. However, this may affect your package budget for future care services, so it’s important to discuss this with both your Home Care provider and the Aged Care Home to work out if this is right for you.

Cottage respite: Overnight care in a community setting provides flexible, short-term options. Costs are mostly subsidised by the government with customer contributions varying by provider.

Emergency respite: If your carer is suddenly unavailable, emergency respite can be arranged through Carer Gateway. Call 1800 422 737 or visit www.carergateway.gov.au to explore your options for immediate support.

Taking time to care for yourself as a carer is not just necessary – it’s vital for both you and your loved one. Respite care offers peace of mind, so you can take a break while knowing they’re well cared for.

Need guidance?

CareAbout can help you find a Home Care provider who understands the importance of caring for the carer and can help everyone stay well-cared for. Give us a call today at 13 13 00 and speak to one of our friendly advisors.