A few hours
Short periods of support so a carer can attend an appointment, complete errands, spend time with others or simply take a well-earned break.
Flexible NDIS support in Lismore and the Northern Rivers
NDIS Respite & Carer Support in Lismore
Everyone needs time to rest and recharge. Our flexible short-term support gives carers a meaningful break while participants enjoy safe, respectful support shaped around their routines, interests and goals.
Health Support Plus can provide respite and carer support for a few hours, a full day or, where suitable and arranged in advance, an overnight stay. We take time to understand what helps the participant feel comfortable and what will give their family or carer genuine peace of mind.
Support may take place at home or in the community, depending on individual needs, availability and the participant’s NDIS plan.
See our full range of NDIS support services.
- Flexible support from a few hours through to overnight stays
- Care guided by the participant’s preferences and usual routines
- Clear communication with participants, families and carers
Support that fits your circumstances
Flexible respite for participants and carers
Every family is different. We discuss the length, setting, activities and level of assistance required before support begins.
Day support
Planned daytime support at home or in the community, with activities chosen around the participant’s interests, needs and goals.
Overnight support
Where appropriate and available, pre-arranged overnight assistance that respects the participant’s evening routine, comfort and support requirements.
Support at home
Familiar surroundings can help participants feel settled while receiving assistance with routines, meals, personal support and meaningful activities.
Community activities
Enjoy an outing, hobby or local activity with individual support. Our Social & Community Participation service may also support these goals.
Carer wellbeing
Regular, reliable breaks can help carers rest, maintain other relationships and responsibilities, and continue their caring role more sustainably.
More than time away
A positive experience for the participant
Respite should benefit the participant as well as their carer. It can be an opportunity to enjoy favourite activities, try something new, build confidence and spend time with a trusted support worker.
We aim to keep support familiar and predictable while respecting the participant’s choices. Families can share important information about communication, routines, sensory preferences, meals, medication, personal care and what helps the participant feel safe.
- Activities based on genuine interests and preferences
- Respect for culture, identity, privacy and personal choices
- Consistent routines wherever possible
- Support that encourages choice and independence
- Updates agreed with the participant and carer
When everyday routines are a key focus, our NDIS Daily Living Support may provide complementary assistance.
Planning for comfort and confidence
How respite support begins
Good respite begins with careful preparation. Before the first visit, we work through the details needed to make support safe, comfortable and useful for everyone involved.
We listen
We learn about the participant, their routines and preferences, the support they need and what the carer hopes the arrangement will achieve.
We plan together
We agree on timing, location, activities, communication and practical support needs, and check that the proposed service aligns with available funding.
We build trust
Where possible, support starts gradually so the participant, carer and support worker can become comfortable and refine the arrangement over time.
Respectful local support
Why choose Health Support Plus?
Trust matters when another person supports someone you care for. We aim to make every arrangement clear, personal and dependable.
Person-centred
The participant’s needs, goals, voice and preferences guide the support. Learn more about why families choose Health Support Plus.
Flexible
We discuss support that fits the family’s circumstances—from a short break to longer pre-arranged support, subject to availability.
Local
We know Lismore and the Northern Rivers and can help participants enjoy familiar places and local community opportunities.
Understanding your plan
Can respite be funded by the NDIS?
Depending on a participant’s disability-related needs and plan, the NDIS may fund short-term supports that provide care and help sustain informal supports. The funded service, duration and applicable pricing depend on the participant’s individual circumstances and current plan.
The NDIS commonly uses terms such as Short Term Accommodation, Assistance and respite-related supports. Not every form of care, holiday expense or accommodation cost is automatically covered.
Please note: Overnight support is subject to participant needs, suitable arrangements, staff availability and the funding in the participant’s plan. We will discuss these details before confirming a service.
For support with physical, emotional or lifestyle goals, you may also wish to explore our Health & Wellbeing Support.
Support close to home
Serving Lismore and the Northern Rivers
Health Support Plus provides respite and carer support in Lismore and surrounding Northern Rivers communities. Availability, travel and overnight arrangements may vary by location, so please contact us to discuss what is currently possible.
- Lismore
- Ballina
- Lennox Head
- Alstonville
- Byron Bay
- Northern Rivers
To discuss your circumstances and current availability, contact Health Support Plus.
Common questions
Respite and carer support FAQs
How long can respite support last?
Support may range from a few hours to a day or an overnight stay. The arrangement depends on the participant’s needs, the carer’s circumstances, available funding, staffing and service availability.
Does respite have to take place away from home?
No. Support may be provided in the participant’s home or in the community. The best setting depends on the participant’s needs, preferences and agreed support arrangements.
What can a participant do during respite?
Activities are planned around the participant’s interests and goals. They might relax at home, cook, enjoy a hobby, visit a local place or take part in a suitable community activity.
Can you follow established routines?
Yes. We ask about the participant’s usual routines, communication, personal care, meals, medication and other important needs so support can be planned carefully. We will confirm what we can safely provide before service begins.
Is overnight support always available?
No. Overnight support must be arranged in advance and is subject to the participant’s needs, suitable arrangements, staff availability and NDIS funding. Please contact us to discuss the specific situation.
How do I know whether respite is included in my NDIS plan?
Check your plan and speak with your support coordinator, plan manager, Local Area Coordinator or the NDIA. Health Support Plus can discuss the support you need and the relevant funding arrangements before services begin.
