Respite Care
Families always want to do everything they can for someone they love. Over time, caring can develop into a full-time responsibility. It might begin gradually, or it may follow something unexpected such as a fall, illness, or sudden loss of independence.
Many sons, daughters and partners find themselves balancing work, family life and caring duties all at once.
Respite care offers a caring, supportive solution. It covers short-term respite care that’s designed to give carers time to rest while their loved one continues to receive safe, professional attention. It provides complete reassurance for everyone. Your family member is cared for, meaning you can step back knowing they get the personalised, expert service they deserve.
Enabling Everyone to Live the Life They Want
Respite can take place in a welcoming residential aged care home, or be delivered as respite home care in the comfort of the place you know best. Some families choose to plan it ahead for travel or appointments, while others need support quickly after a hospital stay or during an emergency.
Every story is different, every care level unique. That’s why our flexible respite care services are made to suit the individual need, across multiple locations that includes respite care in Sydney and respite care in Canberra.
We also encourage families to talk about ageing early. Understanding a loved one’s wishes and learning what support is there for them can take the stress and confusion out of future decisions.
How Respite Care Supports Your Family
Time for carers to rest
Caring is rewarding, but it is demanding. Recharge without feeling guilty, manage personal commitments or simply have a break, knowing their loved one is in a place they feel calm, comfortable and connected.
Professional support day and night
During a stay, trained staff are there to attend any personal or clinical care. Our staff love what they do, and we’ll match you with the best people who understand individual needs.
Flexible length of stay
Respite aged care may last a few days or several weeks depending on any specific need and availability. Full flexibility is there for care that adapts to your changing needs and preferences.
Social connection and companionship
Residents enjoy shared meals, lifestyle activities and engaging social engagement. We always empower everyone to stay connected to their daily routine, allowing all individuals to focus on the things you enjoy.
How the to Access the Care You Need
1. Initial enquiry
Get in touch with Southern Cross Care. Our team will be there to listen carefully and discuss respite care services that are best for you.
2. Assessment and eligibility
Government-funded respite aged care requires registration with My Aged Care for an assessment. We’ll always be by your side as you navigate this process.
3. Care planning
A personalised short-term plan is built around your health needs, preferences and routines. We look at you as an individual, not just another resident.
4. Admission and stay
We’re there to support a smooth transition into a residential home or to arrange respite home care.
5. Returning home or planning ahead
At the end of the stay, we continue to support you with your return to home. We’ll get you back safely and discuss future support if it’s needed.
Experience You Can Trust
Southern Cross Care has over 50 years of experience in supporting Australians and their families. Our qualified teams are there with clinical, personal and emotional support, always with dignity, and always with respect.
This is a person-centred approach that means routines, preferences and comfort remains a priority. Families seeking respite care in Sydney, Canberra and further afield in NSW and the ACT trust us to provide consistent, compassionate care that maintains your individuality. We’re there to support you however you choose to live your life, today and tomorrow.
What’s Included
| Type of Support | What Is Typically Included |
|---|---|
| Respite aged care (in a residential home) | 24/7 personal and clinical care |
| Assistance with daily living activities | |
| Meals, accommodation and housekeeping | |
| Lifestyle and social programs | |
| Medication management | |
| Respite home care (support at home) | Personal care and domestic assistance |
| Short-term in-home support | |
| Flexible hourly arrangements |
Additional costs may apply for:
- Specialist allied health services not covered by funding
- Extra services outside standard respite arrangements
- Extended stays beyond approved government funding limits
Respite Care Routed in Our Mission, Vision and Values
We understand how difficult it can feel to hand over caring responsibilities, even temporarily. We’re here to support you through the difficult emotions that can arise, helping to make the transition as smooth and comforting as possible. Our team always communicates clearly with families for complete reassurance at every step of the journey.
The respite care we offer is tailored to each person’s needs. With compassionate staff and services across NSW and the ACT, all families can feel confident their loved one is in safe and caring hands.
Our care is guided by simple values. We are honest and open, we listen with empathy, we welcome everyone without judgement, and we respect each person’s dignity and wishes. Above all, we work together with residents and families so no one feels they are facing the journey alone.
Take the Next Step Today
If you need time to rest, recover, or manage life’s responsibilities, we’re here with the support your family needs.
To find respite care near you, speak with our team about our respite aged care options in Sydney or Canberra. Contact our team, and begin your journey with confidence and clarity.
FAQs
What is respite care?
Our carer support respite services offer short-term support for carers to take a break while their loved one receives professional care and supervision.
How long can respite aged care last?
Stays can range from a few days to several weeks. It depends on the care you’re looking for, as well as eligibility and availability.
Is respite care available near me?
Southern Cross Care provides support across multiple locations, including respite care in Sydney and respite care in Canberra. Our team is always here to help you find a nearby option.
Can respite care be provided at home?
Yes. Respite home care offers support in the person’s own home so carers can take regular breaks.
Do I need an assessment for government-funded respite care?
Yes. You will need a My Aged Care registration and assessment. We can help you through the process.
Can respite care become permanent care?
It can. Many families use respite as an introduction to residential aged care before making longer-term decisions.