How can I get help with caring in an emergency?

When a crisis occurs carers can find themselves without the necessary back up.

If a carer is suddenly unable to provide care for a family member due to an emergency respite care can be arranged by calling The Commonwealth Carelink Centre on 1800 052 222.

Private nursing care can also be arranged by calling a local nursing care agency. Agencies can provide one on one nursing care to suit your needs, clients are usually charged an hourly rate.

If you feel a family member is being discharge to go home without adequate support and assistance they may be eligible for the Transition Care Program. 

The Transition Care Program aims to help older people regain their independence and confidence after a recent hospital admission. This program cares for people at home and may involve a number of services for a period of 12 weeks.

This program allows older people time to recover and carers time to organise any additional care or the move into residential care. Ask a social worker, Aged Care Assessment Team or doctor about the service.