When you need a break from your caring duties, we can help
In order to look after someone as best you can, you need to look after yourself. ‘Respite care’ is when someone else takes care of the person you care for, so that you can have a break. Respite can be for a few hours, days or longer periods, depending on your needs, eligibility and what services are available.
You can plan to take respite or use it for an urgent need. We can organise emergency respite care for the person you support, or for you, when an unexpected situation occurs.
If you need emergency respite care, call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 at any time. You will speak to your local Carer Gateway service provider who will talk through the options and book emergency respite care, where available.
More information
You may be a carer if you are looking after someone with disability, a medical condition, mental illness or who is frail due to age.
All carers can access Carer Gateway services at any time in their caring journey.
If you get sick or injured and cannot care for your loved one, our Carer Gateway service providers can arrange emergency respite services to support them while you recover.
If you need emergency respite care, call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 at any time. Your local Carer Gateway service provider will talk through the options and book emergency respite care, where available.
Alternative support for the person you care for may involve a short stay in an adult day or residential care facility, or support in your home. The Carer Response Officer you talk to will know what services are available in your area.
It’s free.
You can get respite care at home or in the community. Services are provided at many sites and locations in metropolitan and regional areas.
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