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Melbourne is one of the most popular places in the country for NDIS Short Term Respite (STR). This guide covers what to look for in a Melbourne respite stay, how funding works, and how to book.
Why Melbourne works for respite
A good respite stay is about more than a roof. Melbourne is spread out, well serviced, and full of quiet suburban pockets that make for a genuinely restful stay. It gives participants a real change of scene, with accessible homes close to parks, shops, cafes and health services, yet far enough from the daily routine to feel like a proper break. Whether you want to be near the bay, the city, or a leafy suburb, there is usually an option that suits.
For carers, having quality respite nearby means you can take the break you need without arranging interstate travel or worrying about being far away.
What to look for in Melbourne respite accommodation
Not all respite is the same. When comparing options, it is worth weighing up a few things, starting with the type of stay.
| Self contained | Shared facility |
|---|---|
| Private home with the freedom to keep your own routine | Living alongside others in a group setting |
| You manage your own meals and activities | Meals and group activities are bundled in |
| Suits participants who value privacy and independence | Suits participants who enjoy company and structure |
Both options are valid – it comes down to what suits the participant, and we can help you weigh it up. Beyond the type of stay, also check:
- Accessibility. Step free access, bathroom rails, and room to move a wheelchair or use a hoist if needed.
- Location. Proximity to the things that matter to you, whether that is family, a hospital, or a favourite part of the city.
- Support options. Whether you can bring your own support worker or have experienced workers arranged for you, including 1:1 support.
Not sure which suits? Self contained and shared respite are simply two different options. Tell us about the participant and the reason for the stay, and we will help you compare them. Our guide on 1:1 support during respite covers the support side in more detail.
Suburbs and areas we cover
We arrange Short Term Respite accommodation right across greater Melbourne, from the eastern and south eastern suburbs to the north, west and inner city. Because we work with homes across many areas, we can usually match you to a location that suits your needs and the reason for the stay. If you have a preferred part of Melbourne, just let us know and we will look for the closest fit.
How funding works for a Melbourne stay
STR is funded from your Core Support budget, and the location of the stay does not change how it is funded. Whether your plan is plan managed, self managed or NDIA managed, we can support you, as Respite Stays is an NDIS registered provider. If you would like a refresher, our guide on how to fund respite through your NDIS plan covers the detail.
Booking respite in Melbourne
The process is simple: tell us your dates, the support you need and any access requirements, and we will prepare a written quote and confirm everything with your plan manager or support coordinator before the stay. We handle planned breaks as well as emergency respite in Melbourne when something comes up unexpectedly.
1. Send your details
Tell us your check-in and check-out dates, the support you need, and any access requirements.
2. Receive a written quote
We prepare a written quote and match you to a suitable home across greater Melbourne.
3. Confirm funding
We confirm everything with your plan manager or support coordinator before the stay goes ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Does the suburb change how my stay is funded?
No. STR is funded from your Core Support budget regardless of where in Melbourne you stay.
Can I bring my own support worker?
Yes. You can bring your own support worker, or we can arrange experienced workers for you, including 1:1 support.
Do you offer emergency respite in Melbourne?
Yes. We handle planned breaks as well as emergency respite when something comes up unexpectedly.
Plan your Melbourne respite stay
Ready to look at options, or just want to ask a few questions? Call us on 0483 958 776 or send a booking inquiry.
Send a booking inquiry