When a Carer Can No Longer Provide Care
Contingency and emergency planning for carers: unplanned respite, what to document, who to contact, and how to keep NDIS supports going through a crisis.
It is one of the hardest things to think about, and one of the most important: what happens if you suddenly cannot provide care — through illness, injury, or something unexpected? Having a plan ready is not pessimistic; it is a gift to the person you care for, and to yourself. This guide walks through contingency planning, emergency respite, and keeping supports running when life takes an…
Why plan for something you hope never happens
Planned vs emergency respite
What to have documented
Who to contact in a crisis
Keeping supports going through the crisis
Frequently asked questions
Does the NDIS fund emergency respite?
Short-term and respite-style supports are often funded through Core, and in a crisis your support coordinator or the NDIA can help arrange interim care. Exactly what's available depends on the person's plan, so ask in advance how emergency and short-term supports work for them.
What should I put in a care handover pack?
The daily routine, health and medication details, communication needs, likes and dislikes, calming strategies, and a full contact list including providers, support coordinator, LAC and GP. Add the NDIS plan and its management details. Keep a copy at home and share it with a trusted person.
Who takes over if I'm suddenly hospitalised?
Ideally someone you've arranged in advance as an emergency backup. Beyond that, the person's providers, support coordinator and LAC can help keep supports running. This is exactly why a written contingency plan and an agreed backup contact are so valuable before a crisis hits.
Can a plan be changed quickly if my caring role changes?
If circumstances change significantly, you can ask the NDIA about a reassessment or additional support. Your plan manager or support coordinator can also rearrange existing funding in the short term. Longer-term changes to your capacity to care are relevant and worth raising promptly.
I don't have a support coordinator — who do I call?
Contact your Local Area Coordinator or the NDIA for guidance, and lean on the person's existing providers to keep supports going. A free disability advocate can help you navigate quickly. In any immediate emergency, call 000 first, then work through your contact list.