15/10/2026
What are respite camps, and what does the Y offer?
Respite camps are supported overnight stays for people with disability. Participants get to try new things, build independence and make friends, while families and carers get a well-earned break.
At the Y, our all-abilities camps run across Victoria, and there is a style to suit different ages and interests:
✅Underage Camps for children and young people aged 7 to 17 years
✅Adult Camps for people aged 18 years and over
✅Y Retreats, relaxed weekends away for people of all abilities, where campers have choice and control over how they spend their time
Camps run for 2 to 3 nights, and our Y support team takes care of the organising. That includes all meals, snacks and drinks (we cater for dietary requirements), accessible venues, shared cabin accommodation, equipment and return bus transport from Y Leisure City, Epping. Flexible support ratios are available so each participant gets the right level of support.
Days are full of adventure, with high ropes, canoeing, archery and giant swings. There are also games, cooking, arts and crafts, discos and campfire nights.
Participants choose what they want to do, so every camp experience is shaped by their own interests.
Our experienced support staff are with participants day and night. They hold Working with Children Checks, Police Checks and NDIS Worker Clearance, and are trained in first aid and CPR.
Y Whittlesea is also accredited with the Australian Childhood Foundation Safeguarding program.
Camps can be funded through the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) or self funded.
Learn more about the importance of respite camps for carers:
https://inclusion.ymca.org.au/blog/respite-camps-for-carers-victoria
Wondering whether camp could work for your family? Call our team on 1300 699 622 and we will talk it through.
