Respite care in your community

Stay connected with support in your community

Sometimes a change of scenery, meaningful activities and time spent with others can make all the difference.

Community respite care provides opportunities to stay active, build friendships and remain connected to local life.

Mecwacare offers respite care through our day centres, support groups and community programs for older people, people living with dementia and people with disability.

Led by experienced teams and dedicated volunteers, activities are designed to support wellbeing, participation and enjoyment.

P 1800 163 292 / E community@mecwacare.org.au

Support for carers

We understand that caring for someone can be both rewarding and challenging.

Our carers’ support program offers a welcoming space to connect with others who understand your experience.

Available at our community centres in Malvern East, Pakenham and Cowes (Phillip Island), these groups provide opportunities to share experiences, build support networks and hear from guest speakers who offer practical advice, information and connections to other services.

To learn more about community respite programs, call 1800 163 292 or email community@mecwacare.org.au.

Contact your closest centre to find out more about our programs

Residents in the Stonnington Council

Where: Barry Fenton Centre, 72 Bowen Street, Malvern East VIC 3145
Phone: 03 9564 5100.

Residents in the Cardinia Shire Council (includes Garfield and Cockatoo)

Where: Rivendell House, 8 Henry Street, Pakenham VIC 3810 .
Phone: 03 5941 2315.

Residents on the Bass Coast

Where: Phillip Island Senior Citizens, 6 Lions Court, Cowes (Phillip Island)
Phone: 0486 003 628.

Frequently asked questions

Who delivers respite services?

All mecwacare direct care workers are trained professionals who hold a current Police Check.

What are some of the examples of respite service that can be arranged in my home or in the community?

For example, playing board games, gardening together, walking to the park, visiting a local library, visiting a shopping centre, having coffee at a nearby cafe, attending a group activity with friends, such as lawn bowls.

How much does it cost to access Mecwacare respite care services?

For government-funded services, mecwacare will ask clients to pay a co-contribution. This fee is based on two key areas: your income level and your ability to pay. The fee is an hourly rate and will be discussed and agreed before the service commences. A fee schedule will be attached to your service agreement with mecwacare.

How can I access mecwacare services?

Mecwacare delivers a range of government-funded programs, including the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACC PYP), Support for Carers Program and many others. If you are aged over 65, please contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to check your eligibility for help at home for older people. My Aged Care will organise an assessment and make a referral to mecwacare if it suits your needs.

If you are under 65 and require assistance with daily living or you are unsure which program will suit you most, please contact our friendly team on 8573 4980 to check your eligibility and service options.

What happens if I won’t be available at the time my respite service is booked?

We understand that life does not always go to plan and that you may have appointments and unexpected commitments. Please let us know at least 24 hours before the booked time so that we can reschedule your services.

If you do not answer your door at the time of a scheduled visit or scheduled collection/appointment, we will:

  • Attempt to call you
  • If no response, contact your primary contacts, as relevant
  • If still no response, our office may call the police and request a welfare check.
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