For NDIS participants and carers in Victoria, respite care is more than just a break—it’s a vital support that helps you recharge, build independence, and strengthen relationships. But many participants don’t realise the full range of NDIS respite services available in Victoria or how to include them effectively in their plans.
In this guide, we’ll break down the types of NDIS respite care in Victoria, how they work, who can access them, and how to include respite in your NDIS plan—whether you’re in Melbourne or regional Victoria.
What is NDIS Respite Care?
NDIS respite care, often referred to as Short Term Accommodation (STA), provides temporary support when participants or their carers need a break. It’s not just about giving carers time off; it also offers participants opportunities to learn new skills, enjoy a new environment, and improve their overall wellbeing.
This support is typically funded under your NDIS plan’s Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Living category.
Types of NDIS Respite Services in Victoria
Understanding the types of respite available helps you choose the right fit for your needs and goals.
In-Home Respite Care
Support workers come to your home to assist you while your regular carer takes a break. This is ideal for those who are more comfortable staying in their own space.
Centre-Based Respite
You visit a respite centre or day program where you receive supervised support, engage in group activities, and interact with others. This is popular in Melbourne suburbs and regional Victoria.
Community Access Respite
Support workers accompany you on community outings, events, or local activities. It’s a great way to build confidence, social skills, and independence.
Short Term Accommodation (STA)
This includes overnight stays away from home, typically 1–14 days. These can be solo or group stays, and often include meals, care, and activity planning. STA is one of the most commonly used types of NDIS respite care in Victoria. Learn more about NDIS STA Services.
Emergency Respite
In urgent situations where a carer is suddenly unavailable, emergency respite ensures the participant is cared for safely and quickly.
Why Include Respite in Your NDIS Plan?
Respite isn’t just about rest—it’s also about personal growth, skill development, and giving carers the support they need to continue providing long-term care.
Benefits of including respite in your NDIS plan:
- Carer stress relief and burnout prevention
- Participant development in new settings
- Structured and supported routine outside the home
- Improved relationships and family dynamics
Including NDIS respite funding in Victoria ensures you have flexible, funded options when you or your carer need a break.
How to Include Respite in Your NDIS Plan (Victoria)
If you’re wondering how to include respite in your NDIS plan in Victoria, follow these simple steps:
Define Your Respite Goals
What do you or your carer want from respite? Whether it’s building independence or relieving care fatigue, be clear about your needs.
Discuss with Your Planner or LAC
At your planning meeting or plan review, mention your need for respite. Explain your goals and request it under Core Supports (Assistance with Daily Living).
Get Quotes from Providers
NDIS may request quotes or support letters from registered respite care providers in Victoria to approve funding.
Request Funding Flexibility
Ask for flexible funding that allows you to choose between in-home, community-based, or STA-based respite options as needed.
If you need help with planning, our team can assist. Contact us for NDIS plan support.
Where to Access NDIS Respite in Victoria?
Whether you’re in the heart of Melbourne or regional towns across the state, there are a variety of NDIS respite care providers in Victoria to suit your needs.
Popular Locations:
Melbourne & Suburbs – In-home, STA, and centre-based respite
Geelong & Ballarat – Community outings and overnight STA
Regional Victoria – Farm stays, bush retreats, and supported holiday-style STA options
At Care With Us, we offer customized respite options that align with your goals and plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What NDIS respite services are available in Victoria?
Available services include in-home care, short term accommodation (STA), community access, centre-based programs, and emergency respite.
How to use NDIS for respite care in Melbourne?
Include respite goals in your plan, request support under Core Supports, and connect with a local provider like Care With Us.
How to apply for respite funding in your NDIS plan in Victoria?
At your planning meeting or plan review, discuss your respite needs and request funding. Supporting documents and provider quotes may help approval.
Let Care With Us Support Your Respite Journey
At Care With Us, we specialise in flexible and compassionate NDIS respite care services across Victoria. We provide in-home support, STA, and guidance to help you include the right supports in your plan.
We can help with:
- Respite goal setting and documentation
- STA arrangements and supported accommodation
- In-home and community respite
- Full NDIS plan support
Visit our website or contact us to get started.
