How Much Does Respite Care Cost Per Hour?

Understanding how respite care hourly rates work is key when planning short-term support for a loved one.

Prices can vary widely, whether you're arranging care for a few hours a week or an extended break. 

They often range from $20 to $90 per hour for in-home care, while residential respite rates are around $63 per hour. 

The exact price is difficult to determine. It depends on the provider, location, and level of support needed. 

This guide breaks down current averages and goes through the factors that impact the cost.

Once you read it, you will be able to make informed, cost-effective decisions about your respite care options.

So, if you're wondering, "How much does respite care cost per hour?" keep reading.

How Much Is Respite Care Per Hour in Australia?

The hourly cost of respite care in Australia depends on many factors. There is no set price. Instead, it's different for everyone.

On average, expect to pay between $20 and $90 per hour for in-home care. The lower end applies to standard support, while specialised or high-needs care cost more.

When it comes to daily rates, respite care costs around $160 to $400 per day.

Residential respite costs around $63 per hour, which is 85% of the single basic age pension.

Of course, pricier options exist. This mainly applies to overnight facility-based respite care and emergency 24-hour respite care.

Let's take a look at these rates and what they include in more detail:

• Basic In-Home Respite Care

Cost: $20 – $50 per hour
Includes: Supervision, help with bathing, dressing, meals, mobility, and general in-home support.

• In-Home Nursing Care

Cost: $45 – $90 per hour
Includes: Support from a registered nurse for medication administration, wound care, medical monitoring, and post-hospital care.

• Overnight Facility-Based Respite Care

Cost: $250 – $400+ per night
Includes: Overnight stay in an aged care facility with access to meals, supervision, and clinical support.

• Emergency 24-Hour Respite Care

Cost: $800 – $1,500+ per day
Includes: Full-day, round-the-clock care during emergencies, often with intensive nursing, personal care, and supervision.

It's important to note that some services charge additional fees for extras. This can include transport, public holiday shifts, or specialised nursing care.

When comparing providers, always ask for a full quote. This is especially important if you're booking for multiple days or overnight stays.

What Influences the Hourly Rate of Respite Care?

The cost of respite care isn't one-size-fits-all. Several factors influence how much you'll pay per hour or visit.

Here are the key drivers that affect respite care pricing:

1. Type and level of care required
2. Location and travel requirements
3. Time of day, week, or year
4. Duration and frequency of care
5. Provider type (agency vs. independent carers)
6. Government subsidies and eligibility

Type and Level of Care Required

Not all respite care is the same. 

The more specialised or intensive the support, the higher the hourly rate.

Let's take general support and companionship as an example. It includes meal prep, social visits, household help, and so on.

This type of assistance is typically the most affordable.

Personal care (e.g., bathing, toileting, mobility aid) may involve trained support workers. It might cost slightly more.

Nursing care or support for individuals with dementia, mobility issues, or chronic conditions requires registered professionals. That's why it commands higher fees.

The nature of the care plan will directly affect the cost per hour.

Location and Travel Requirements

Where you live plays a major role in how much you'll pay.

Urban areas (like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) tend to have higher rates due to wage standards and demand.

Regional or rural areas may offer lower rates but fewer available providers.

If your home is located outside a provider's core service zone, there may be extra charges for travel time, fuel, or mileage, particularly for remote visits.

When comparing providers, check if travel costs are bundled into the hourly rate or charged separately.

Time of Day, Week, or Year

The timing of the care session can significantly impact cost. 

Providers often apply loading fees or premiums in the following scenarios:

• After-hours care (before 7 am or after 6 pm)
• Weekend or public holiday services
• Short-notice or emergency bookings

These charges typically range from 10% to 25% above standard hourly rates. It depends on the provider and wage requirements.

Booking during standard weekday hours (Monday to Friday, 9–5) is generally the most cost-effective option.

Duration and Frequency of Care

Some providers offer discounted hourly rates for longer or recurring bookings.

For example, a three-hour session may cost less per hour than a one-hour booking. Weekly or monthly plans might include bundled rates or flexible packages.

Make sure to ask providers if they offer minimum booking times.

Some will not accept care sessions under a set duration (e.g., 2 hours), even if you're only requesting brief support.

Provider Type: Agency vs. Independent Carers

The type of provider you hire will affect both pricing and what's included. This applies to registered home care agencies and private independent carers.

Agencies often charge more per hour. But they include service coordination, carer replacement, insurance, and background checks.

Independent carers may offer lower rates. But they typically require direct arrangements and don't include backup care or admin support.

Agencies are usually the best choice for those seeking peace of mind and consistent quality assurance.

Private carers might suit lower budgets or short-term informal care.

Government Subsidies and Eligibility

Access to government assistance can make a dramatic difference in your out-of-pocket costs. 

Many Australians qualify for partially or fully subsidised respite care under programs such as:

• Home Care Packages (HCP) - for older Australians who want to remain living at home.
• Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) – for older Australians needing occasional support.
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – for people under 65 with permanent disabilities.
• Carer Gateway – for unpaid carers needing funded breaks or emergency care.
• Veterans' Home Care (VHC) – for eligible ex-service personnel and their families.

Each program has its own eligibility rules, income tests, and booking processes. But all of them are designed to reduce financial pressure for carers and families.

Maximising Your Respite Care Value

Finding affordable respite care isn't just about choosing the cheapest option. It's about balancing quality, transparency, and flexibility.

Here are some ways to make your respite care budget go further:

1. Use government programs like CHSP, NDIS, or Carer Gateway to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
2. Ask for bundled pricing when booking regular weekly care or full-day services.
3. Ensure clarity on inclusions — request a full service list and cost summary upfront.
4. Compare different providers and ask about their cancellation, transport, and assessment policies.

By following these tips, you can make sure you're getting the most without overspending. This is especially important when you need respite care more and more.

Avoiding Hidden Fees and Unexpected Costs

No one likes financial surprises, especially when arranging care for a loved one.

That's why it's important to ask the right questions and understand how providers handle "extra" charges.

Before you commit, be sure to ask:

1. What's included in the hourly/daily rate?
2. Are there separate charges for assessments or transport?
3. Do weekend and public holiday rates differ?
4. What's your policy on cancellations or rescheduling?
5. Are there lock-in contracts or minimum hour bookings?

At Haisey Home Care, we believe in clear pricing and no lock-in contracts. So, you always know what to expect and can adjust your plan as needed.

FAQ

How much does respite care cost per hour in Australia?

Expect to pay $20 to $90 per hour,  depending on care type, provider, and location for in-home care. If you're interested in residential respite, it's usually about $63 per hour. 

Does Medicare cover respite care?

Yes, Medicare does cover respite care. But only through government-funded aged care programs like the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP).

Can I get free respite care?

Respite care is not free, but you can apply for a government subsidy through My Aged Care or other programs. 

Is a private carer cheaper than going through an agency?

It can be, but you may lose access to insurance, backup staff, and coordination support.

What's the most affordable type of respite care?

Subsidised adult day centres or group programs often start around $20/hour. 

Making the Right Choice for Your Family

Respite care is an investment in your well-being and your loved one's quality of life. 

By understanding the cost of respite care per hour, you're already one step closer to finding the right fit.

At Haisey Home Care, we believe accessing high-quality respite care should be simple, flexible, and affordable. 

Whether you need a few hours of support each week or urgent 24-hour coverage, our friendly team is here to help.

No lock-in contracts, no hidden fees. Just transparent pricing and compassionate support when it matters most.

Contact us if you want to know more. 

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