In our aged care homes

Q: Are there any financial support services that can help me pay for respite care?

Carer Gateway Phone: 1800 422 737 Website: www.carergateway.gov.au Department of Veterans’ Affairs Phone: 133 254 Website: www.dva.gov.au

Short stay in a supportive environment

mecwacare offers respite care in all our aged care homes, providing guests and their carers short breaks and independence. Respite care is best suited for people who are looking for continuous care in a supportive environment.

Respite guests receive the same level of care and access to the same range of services as our permanent residents. They also have their own room and ensuite bathroom.

P 8573 4812 / E admissions@mecwacare.org.au

Why choose mecwacare?

Expert care: 24/7 support from our dedicated, compassionate team of registered nurses and carers.

Safe, comfortable environment: Enjoy spacious rooms, beautiful gardens and welcoming communal spaces.

Engaging activities: Stay active and connected with our diverse social programs, designed to suit a range of interests and abilities.

Convenient, short-term options: Flexible stays to meet your needs—whether it’s a few days, weeks, or more.

We welcome individuals with both low and high support needs

Guests and their families can have peace of mind knowing registered nurses are on every shift, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment. Fresh, nutritious meals are prepared daily by our on-site chefs.

Visitors will have the opportunity to connect with others and enjoy a vibrant lifestyle program designed for all interests.

Call us today or book a tour to arrange a short stay.

FAQ's

How do I get started?

Your first step towards accessing government subsidised permanent care is to contact My Aged Care by phone on 1800 200 422 or online at myagedcare.gov.au to check your eligibility and to register. A representative from the Aged Care Assessment Team in your local area will then contact you to book a meeting to undertake an assessment.

Is there availability in my chosen area?

mecwacare has 22 aged care homes across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. We recommend you contact our friendly Admissions team on 1800 163 292 or email admissions@mecwacare.org.au to talk through your options.

How do I book a tour?

Our Admissions team is happy to arrange a tour for you. Simply call them on 1800 163 292 or email admissions@mecwacare.org.au to make an appointment. Your on-site or virtual tour will be led by the home’s Facility Manager, who will also be able to answer any questions you might have.

How do I book respite care at a mecwacare facility?

The following items are required when applying for placement in a mecwacare care home.

My Aged Care service referral code for respite care [i.e. 1-xxxxxxxxxx]
Application for residential care (provided by the Admissions team)
Privacy information consent statement (provided by the Admissions team)
Enduring power of attorney/guardianship order.

Can I extend my respite care if necessary and how do I organise this?

This is subject to availability, as the demand for permanent care in our homes is high. Please contact our Admissions team on 1800 163 292 or via email admissions@mecwacare.org.au before the end of your current respite term.

What do I need to bring for a respite stay?

Original medication chart completed by your doctor. A chart will need to be collected from mecwacare.
Medication Webster packs to cover the full term of respite care
Personal items, such as clothing, footwear, toiletries and incontinence pads
Anything of interest, such as books, jigsaw puzzle, handheld electronic devices and crafts (knitting, crochet).

Are there any financial support services that can help me pay for respite care?

Carer Gateway

Phone: 1800 422 737

Website: www.carergateway.gov.au

Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Phone: 133 254

Website: www.dva.gov.au