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Respite can offer a short break in a safe, supported environment, giving everyone a chance to rest, reset and keep routines going.

Melba offers respite in Gippsland for children and adults, with welcoming options in Sale, Traralgon and Warragul. Whether you’re planning ahead or looking for support soon, we can help you explore what a respite stay could look like.

We offer respite in Sale, Traralgon and Warragul. Each respite location is designed to feel comfortable and familiar, with support that’s shaped around the person staying.

We can usually welcome up to four people at a time in Sale, up to six in Traralgon, and typically up to five in Warragul. Capacity depends on making the right match for each person’s needs.

Why people choose Melba respite

 Accessibility, designed in.

Respite in Traralgon is provided in a relatively modern, purpose built space with accessibility in mind. It includes wide doorways, accessible bathrooms, and bedrooms set up to support people with higher physical needs, including overhead transfer equipment. There are multiple living areas, plus a separate outdoor space with a kitchenette.

The right match matters.

Respite works best when people feel comfortable and supported. We take the time to match bookings thoughtfully, considering age groups, support needs and other bookings, so stays are calm, safe and positive for everyone sharing the home. Children and adults never attend respite at the same place.

More than a bed for the night.

Respite can be a chance to enjoy time away in a new environment, keep routines going, and do everyday things with the right supports in place. Depending on interests and support needs, stays can also include local outings and short trips, such as day trips and attending community events.

A gentle start, at your pace.

If respite is new, we can take it step by step. That might start with a meet and greet, then a couple of short visits, building up to a full day and an overnight when the person is ready.

What we offer in Traralgon

• Capacity: up to six beds per stay (matching is based on individual needs and compatibility).
• For children and adults.
• Support for complex physical needs (including equipment supports available on site; suitability is confirmed during assessment).
• Availability can be 24/7/365, depending on rostering and the right support match.
• Person led support: we work with you to understand routines, communication, health needs and what a good break looks like.

Types of respite available

• Short term respite = up to 28 days a year
• Medium term respite = up to 90 consecutive days
• Emergency respite, and crisis respite in certain circumstances (subject to assessment and availability).
• In addition to respite in Melba locations, we can also provide respite in other locations, including people’s homes. We discuss and consider your individual needs to find the safest, most suitable option.

Funding options

Respite may be NDIS funded or privately funded (fee for service). Private funding is sometimes arranged through a government body such as Child Protection or VACCA, and we also receive enquiries from hospitals, TAC and other support agencies. What’s possible depends on the support ratio required, availability of support workers, and the details of the stay.

Plan ahead, so support is there when you need it

Sometimes respite is needed at short notice. If a person is already known to Melba and we have the right information in place, we can often respond and react more quickly. When you first get in touch, it helps to share preferred dates (and any flexibility), whether respite is for a child or an adult, mobility and personal care needs, any Behaviour Support Plans or other key support information, and any medication or health considerations.

Confused about recent NDIS changes for respite?

Talk with us about what you’re seeking and how it can be funded today.

Want to start talking respite with Melba?

If you’d like to talk about a respite stay, contact Melba’s Engagement Team. We can answer questions, talk through what would make a stay feel safe and comfortable, and guide you through the next steps.