How Much Does Respite Care Cost Per Day NDIS
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    How Much Does Respite Care Cost Per Day NDIS

    9 April 2026Curamus Team
    Respite Care Cost
    NDIS STA Rates
    Disability Support Gippsland

    The cost of NDIS respite care per day usually stays between $700 and $3,500. This price depends on the day of the week and how much help you need from staff. These daily rates are set by the government to keep costs fair for everyone.

    Your Quick Guide To Respite Costs

    Respite care is often called Short Term Accommodation or STA. It is a support that lets you stay away from home for a short time. This gives your usual carers a chance to rest. The daily price covers your room, all your meals, and the cost of the people who support you.

    The NDIS Price Guide sets a limit on what providers can charge. Most stays happen in blocks of up to 14 days. We help families in Gippsland and Cardinia understand these numbers. We make sure you get the best value from your plan without any hidden fees.

    What Is NDIS Respite Care?

    Respite care is a way for you to try new things while your family takes a break. It helps you build skills and make new friends in a safe place.

    It is formally known as Short Term Accommodation. You can stay in a house with other people or have a place to yourself. The goal is to keep you healthy and happy. You can find more details on the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission website.

    How Much Does Respite Care Cost Per Day NDIS?

    The cost of respite care starts at around $708 for a weekday with shared support. If you need a support worker all to yourself on a Sunday, the cost can be over $3,500.

    These prices change based on the staff-to-participant ratio. A 1:1 ratio means one staff member for one person. A 1:2 ratio means one staff member for two people. Shared care is cheaper and lets you be social. You can see the full list of rules in the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.

    Why Do Prices Change On Weekends?

    Prices go up on Saturdays and Sundays because staff get paid more on those days. Public holidays have the highest daily rates of all.

    • Weekdays are the most affordable time for a stay.

    • Saturdays have a higher rate to cover weekend pay.

    • Sundays are more expensive than Saturdays.

    • Public holidays cost the most due to law-mandated pay rates.

    What Is Included In The Daily Rate?

    The daily rate for respite care is all-inclusive. This means you do not have to pay extra for your basic needs while you stay with us.

    • You get a safe and comfortable room to sleep in.

    • You get three healthy meals every day plus snacks.

    • You get help with showering, dressing, and taking medicine.

    • You get to join in on fun group activities and outings.

    • You get 24-hour support from trained staff.

    Are There Different Rates For Different Areas?

    Yes, the NDIS has different price limits for regional and remote areas. Most of our work is in the National category for places like Pakenham.

    Some parts of Gippsland might be classed as Remote. In those areas, the government allows providers to charge more. This covers the extra cost of travel and getting supplies to far away places. We always check your exact location to give you the right price.

    How Do Support Ratios Affect My Budget?

    Your support ratio is the biggest factor in your daily cost. We help you choose the right level of care for your needs.

    • 1:1 Support: Best for people with complex medical or safety needs.

    • 1:2 Support: Great for friends who want to stay together.

    • 1:3 Support: A social way to save money in your NDIS budget.

    • 1:4 Support: The most affordable way to enjoy a group holiday.

    Can I Get Respite Care In My Plan?

    You can get respite funding if it is "reasonable and necessary" for your life. The NDIA looks at how much help your informal carers give you.

    You need to show that a break will help you stay in your home for longer. We suggest talking to your Local Area Coordinator about your goals. You can also look at the Carer Gateway for more support for your family.

    How Does Curamus Help People In Gippsland?

    We provide high-quality care in Gippsland and the Cardinia region. We focus on making sure you feel at home during your stay.

    What If I Need High Intensity Care?

    High intensity care is for people with very complex health needs. This requires staff with extra training in things like wound care or feeding tubes.

    The cost for this care is higher than standard respite. It ensures you have a nurse or a highly skilled worker nearby. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare tracks how these services help Australians.

    How To Book Your Respite Stay

    • Check your NDIS plan for Short Term Accommodation funding.

    • Call us on 0484 824 250 to talk about dates.

    • Ask for a quote based on the day of the week you want.

    • Fill out our Make a Referral form.

    • Visit our Contact Us page to ask a question.

    Understanding The Rules For Stays

    The NDIS usually funds up to 28 days of respite care per year. You can use these days however you like.

    Most people use them in blocks of 14 days at a time. This allows for two big breaks a year. Some people prefer shorter stays like a long weekend. You can read the official rules on the Department of Social Services website.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much does respite care cost per day on a weekday?

    A weekday stay with 1:1 support costs about $2,178. If you share support with three other people, the cost drops to about $708 per day.

    Does the NDIS cover the cost of food during respite?

    Yes, the daily rate for Short Term Accommodation covers all your meals. You do not need to bring your own groceries or pay for dinner.

    Can I use my Core Supports budget for respite?

    Yes, you can often use your Core Supports budget to pay for respite care. It is a flexible way to get the help you need when your family is tired.

    Is there a limit on how many days I can stay?

    The NDIS typically funds up to 14 days in one single stay. You can have multiple stays throughout the year until your funding runs out.

    Do I need to live in Melbourne to use your services?

    No, we support people across Gippsland and the Cardinia region. We love helping our local community in Pakenham and surrounding towns.