Call: 5441 2666

Amicus is excited to offer people in Castlemaine and surrounding districts the opportunity to experience a state-of-the-art facility at the Melissa Court Respite House - for people of all abilities and ages (including children 6-17 years based on availability)

 Our participants love getting out and about. Enjoy exploring local op shops and gardens, the cinema, and visiting Bendigo for the heated pool and splash park.

 Participants are supported to develop a wide range of skills to support them with their independence. Participants enjoy cooking in the all abilities kitchen after grocery shopping.

Each participant who stays at Melissa Court Respite House is provided with one-to-one support from experienced Amicus support workers. All activities are tailored to each participant's likes and preferences. 

All abilities bathrooms, one with ceiling hoist and walk-in bath.  

Four bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms.

Two large living areas with abundant natural lighting and soft couches and a fully equipped all-abilities kitchen.

An area at one end of the respite house can be closed off to create a private space with access to a lounge area, bathroom, kitchenette, and bedroom when requested or required.  

• Large meeting room with board table and kitchenette
• Staff sleepover area and office space.  
• Fully-equipped laundry facilities 
• Amicus vehicle to access the community 

Amicus is excited to offer people in Castlemaine and surrounding districts the opportunity to experience a state-of-the-art facility at the Lions McDonald Hill Respite House - also known as the Melissa Court Respite House - for people with disabilities.

Melissa Court Respite House was funded and launched by Mount Alexander Shire Accommodation and Respite Group (MASARG Inc.) after Mount Alexander became one of the last remaining shires in Victoria without a purpose-built respite facility.

The Mount Alexander Shire Accommodation and Respite Group (MASARG Inc.) is a non-political, independent group of parents, carers and community members working to address the critical need for respite and accommodation infrastructure for people with disabilities in the area.

Experience a complete virtual tour of Melissa Court Respite 

House online.

What is short-term accommodation?

Short Term Accommodation (STA), including respite, provides accommodation and support for a short period of time away from your usual home. STA covers the cost of your care in another place for up to 14 days at a time, or 28 days per year – or as approved in your NDIS plan. Short Term Accommodation is a great way to: 

• Learn new skills

• Give family and informal support a break – respite 

• Increase independence 

• Support and maintain your functional capacity 

• Build social skills and access the community

Who can access short-term accommodation?

NDIS Participants are able to access Short Term Accomodation if it relates to their disability support needs. 

How do you get short-term accommodation in your NDIS plan?

If you think your current plan doesn’t have the Short Term Accommodation support you can discuss it with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or support coordinator and service delivery provider (Amicus). You can also visit the NDIS website to learn more about changing your plan. 

How long can people stay at Melissa Court Respite House?
Up to 28 days per year can be accessed for respite or as approval via your NDIS plan, in line with the NDIS guidelines.  

Do I need to be an Amicus participant?
Yes. If you would like to access respite or Short Term Accommodation at Melissa Court Respite House, please contact Amicus by phone on 5441 2666, via email at pathways@amicus.org.au or completing the enquiry form below. 

What support will Amicus provide?
Personal care, assistance, support and facilitate independence, assistance with connecting socially, medication management (based on consultation).  

How do I enquire?
Enquiries can be made for Melissa Court Respite House by contacting Amicus by phone on 5441 2666, via email at pathways@amicus.org.au 
or completing the enquiry form below.

2 Melissa Court McKenzie Hill, Castlemaine
(via Sawmill Road, off Maldon-Castlemaine Road)

Complete the below form and a member of the Amicus Team will be in touch with you.

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