Emergency Respite Care: How to Get Help Fast
Emergency respite care explained: how to get urgent help fast through Carer Gateway, what it looks like, the aged care route, costs, and how to plan ahead.
What emergency respite is
When you might need it
Who to call first
What emergency respite looks like
The aged care route
What it costs
Plan ahead so it is easier
Frequently asked questions
How do I get emergency respite care quickly?
For carers, call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737, explain that you have an emergency and cannot provide care, and you will be connected with your local service to arrange emergency respite where it is available.
What does emergency respite care look like?
It flexes to the situation: a worker coming into the home, a short stay in a residential aged care home, a place in an adult day program, or a combination that bridges the gap until the carer can resume caring.
Does emergency respite cost money?
Carer Gateway emergency respite is government-funded, and some support is available at no or low cost. Residential respite may involve a daily fee, with hardship provisions available. In a true emergency, arrange care first and sort out details afterward.
How can I prepare for a respite emergency?
Save the Carer Gateway number, get the person assessed through My Aged Care so respite is easier to access, keep a one-page summary of medications and contacts ready, and talk with family about who could step in.