Supporting our carers

If you’re a carer, DVA can provide respite care to give you a break, whether you’re planning a holiday, just need to catch up with family and friends, or want to attend a regular community activity or study.

Depending on your needs, respite care can be provided in the home of the person you’re caring for or in a residential aged-care home.

We also understand that being a carer can be not only physically demanding but also emotionally demanding. Carers can access the Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling service by calling 1800 011 046.

For more information, tips and tools on staying healthy, go to the Open Arms website.

DVA can also assist with Emergency Short-Term Relief (ESTHR). This can be used when something unexpected happens and the only alternative is to admit the person being cared for to hospital because neither you nor general community services are able to provide care.

To find out more about respite care options, call the Veterans' Home Care Assessment Agency on 1300 550 450 or the DVA general enquiries number 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372) or go to the Respite Care and Carer support page on the DVA website.