Key Points:

  • Short Term Accommodation (STA) was officially renamed Short Term Respite (STR) by the NDIS in October 2025, though both terms are still widely used
  • STR provides temporary accommodation and support to give family carers a break or help participants build independent living skills
  • You must live with a carer or family member to qualify for respite funding (if you live alone, STR is not available under current guidelines)
  • Costs range from $350 to $550+ per night depending on support intensity, time of week, and staff-to-participant ratios
  • STR includes accommodation, personal care, meals and structured activities, but excludes holiday costs, entertainment, and tourist activities
  • Funding is allocated in your NDIS plan either as stated supports (specific amount for STR) or drawn from flexible Core Supports
  • Typical allocation is 14 to 28 nights per year, though this varies based on your carer’s needs and your disability-related goals
  • Booking requires advance planning (often 4-8 weeks) due to high demand, especially during school holidays
  • STR is not for holidays, it must meet a disability-related purpose such as carer respite or skill development
  • Different line items apply for group settings (1:2, 1:3, 1:4 ratios) versus individual support, significantly affecting daily costs

What Is NDIS Short Term Respite?

Short Term Respite (STR), previously called Short Term Accommodation (STA), is temporary accommodation and support funded under the NDIS when the need is related to your disability.

STR serves two main purposes:

1. Carer respite Provides your family carer or informal supports a break from their caring role. This might be to attend to their own health needs, take a holiday, manage a family emergency, or simply rest and recharge.

2. Skill building Helps you build independent living skills in a supported environment away from your usual home. This could include practicing cooking, self-care routines, social skills, and community participation in preparation for more independent living arrangements.

Important Terminology Update (October 2025)

The NDIS began transitioning from “Short Term Accommodation (STA)” to “Short Term Respite (STR)” in official documentation from October 2025. You will see both terms used by providers, support coordinators, and in older NDIS plans. They refer to the same support category.

This guide uses “STR” and “respite” as the primary terms, but references STA where it appears in line item codes and official documents.

Who Can Access NDIS Respite?

Eligibility Requirements

To access STR funding, you must meet ALL of these criteria:

You have an active NDIS plan STR is an NDIS-funded support. It is not available through aged care or other mainstream services.

You live with a carer or family member Current NDIS guidelines state that STR is specifically to provide respite for informal carers. If you live alone or in existing supported accommodation (such as SIL), STR is generally not approved because there is no informal carer requiring respite.

There is a disability-related need The respite must relate to your disability. It cannot be purely for a holiday or leisure purpose. Valid reasons include:

  • Your carer needs a break from their caring responsibilities
  • You need to build skills for more independent living
  • Your family is experiencing a crisis or temporary change requiring respite
  • You need a break from your usual routine due to mental health needs

Your plan includes STR funding Not all NDIS plans include specific STR funding. It may be:

  • Stated as a separate line item with a specific dollar amount
  • Part of your flexible Core Supports budget that you can choose to spend on STR
  • Added at a plan review if your circumstances change

Common Situations Where STR Is Approved

  • Your parent or partner carer is having surgery and cannot provide care during recovery
  • Your family is attending a wedding or significant event interstate
  • Your carer is experiencing burnout and needs a break to maintain their own wellbeing
  • You want to practice independent living skills before moving to SIL or your own home
  • Your usual living situation is temporarily unavailable (for example, home repairs after flooding)
  • You are transitioning between living arrangements and need short-term accommodation

When STR Is Not Appropriate

  • You live independently and want a holiday (use community participation funding for support worker to accompany you on holiday, not STR)
  • You want to attend a music festival or sporting event (not respite, use community participation)
  • You are seeking emergency crisis accommodation (contact mainstream crisis services, not NDIS)
  • Your request is purely recreational with no carer respite or skill-building component

What Is Included in Short Term Respite?

STR is an all-inclusive package of accommodation and support. Understanding what is and is not included is essential to avoid unexpected costs.

Included in STR Funding

ComponentWhat’s Covered
AccommodationClean, comfortable room with bed, bathroom, and any accessibility features you require (wheelchair access, hoist, hospital bed)
Personal careAssistance with showering, dressing, toileting, grooming, medication administration
MealsBreakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks prepared on-site or provided by the accommodation
Structured activitiesActivities organised by the provider (art and craft, games, outings to local parks or cafes, movie nights)
Active overnight supportSupport workers on duty overnight to assist with personal care, repositioning, medication, or safety needs
TransportTransport to and from the accommodation (if pre-arranged with the provider) and during approved outings
Allied health supportsPhysiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy if included in your support plan and arranged in advance

NOT Included (Everyday Costs You Pay)

CostWhy Not Funded
Airfares and long-distance travelEveryday cost not related to disability
Holiday packages and toursRecreational activity, not reasonable and necessary
Entry fees to theme parks, zoos, moviesEveryday leisure expense
Souvenirs and personal shoppingEveryday cost
Additional meals at restaurantsMeals are provided as part of STR
Travel insuranceMainstream cost
Alcohol and cigarettesNot reasonable and necessary

The “STR Is Not a Holiday” Rule

NDIS guidelines explicitly state: “Short Term Accommodation is not for holidays.”

This means:

  • STR accommodation must be focused on respite or skill development, not tourism
  • You can stay at a respite house near the beach, but not book a beachfront resort hotel
  • Providers cannot claim STR funding for cruise ships, holiday resorts, or tourist accommodation
  • Activities during STR should be typical community participation (visiting a cafe, going to a park), not expensive tourist attractions

If you want to go on a holiday with support worker assistance, you should use your community participation funding to pay for the support worker’s time. You pay for the accommodation, flights, and activities yourself.

How Much Does NDIS Respite Cost?

STR costs vary significantly based on the level of support you need, the time of week, and whether you are in a group setting or receiving individual support.

Typical Cost Range

Per night: $350 to $550+

Per week: $2,450 to $3,850+

14-night stay: $4,900 to $7,700+

The actual cost depends on:

  • Staff-to-participant ratio (1:1 is most expensive, 1:4 is least expensive)
  • Time of day and day of week (weekends and overnight are higher rates)
  • Support intensity (high support needs attract higher line item rates)
  • Accommodation type (standard versus accessible or specialised)

Line Items and Pricing Structure

STR pricing uses separate line items for accommodation and personal care, with different rates based on support ratios.

Sample line items from the 2025-26 NDIS Price Guide:

Line Item CodeDescriptionDaily Rate (Indicative)
01_011_0107_1_1Accommodation (standard, individual)$162.00/day
01_012_0107_1_1Accommodation (group, shared)$108.00/day per person
01_800_0107_1_1STR: Assistance with personal care (1:1, weekday)Hourly rate x 24 hours
01_801_0107_1_1STR: Assistance with personal care (1:2 group, weekday)Lower per-person rate

Note: Actual pricing is complex and varies by time of day, day of week, and support type. Most providers bundle accommodation and support into a daily or weekly package rate for simplicity.

Group Versus Individual Support

Group settings (1:2, 1:3, 1:4 ratios):

  • You share a support worker with other participants
  • Significantly lower per-person cost
  • Social opportunities and peer interaction
  • Suitable if your support needs allow shared support
  • Typical cost: $350 to $450 per night

Individual support (1:1):

  • Dedicated support worker for you alone
  • Highest cost
  • Required for complex medical needs or behaviours of concern
  • Greater flexibility and personalised support
  • Typical cost: $500 to $650+ per night

Example cost comparison (weekday, 24 hours):

Support RatioPer Person Daily Cost (Approx)
Individual (1:1)$550
Group (1:2)$420
Group (1:3)$360
Group (1:4)$330

Choosing a group setting where appropriate can save thousands of dollars over a week-long stay.

How to Book NDIS Respite

Step 1: Check Your Plan

Before booking, confirm:

  • Do you have STR funding in your plan? Check your NDIS plan budget or contact your Support Coordinator or LAC.
  • How much funding is allocated? Stated STR funding will show a specific dollar amount. Flexible Core can also be used for STR.
  • Are there any conditions or notes? Some plans specify maximum nights or require pre-approval.

Step 2: Find a Provider

NDIS Provider Finder: Search the official NDIS provider directory at ndis.gov.au/participants/working-providers/find-registered-provider

Filter by:

  • Support category: “Assistance with daily life” or “Short term accommodation”
  • Your location or preferred location
  • Registration status (must be NDIS-registered to claim STR)

Support Coordinator assistance: If you have a Support Coordinator, they can recommend reputable providers in your area, check availability, and help with paperwork.

Ask about:

  • Availability for your preferred dates
  • Staff-to-participant ratios
  • Activities offered
  • Accessibility features
  • Dietary requirements and meal options
  • Behavioural support experience (if relevant)
  • COVID-safe practices and cleaning protocols

Step 3: Book in Advance

Lead time: 4 to 8 weeks is typical, though last-minute cancellations sometimes open up spots.

Peak periods: School holidays, Christmas, and Easter book out early. Start planning 3+ months ahead for these periods.

Cancellation policies: Providers have different policies. Some require 14 days notice, others 28 days. Cancellation fees may apply.

Step 4: Complete Intake and Support Planning

The provider will ask for:

  • Your NDIS plan and funding details
  • Medical information and medication schedules
  • Personal care needs and routines
  • Dietary requirements and food preferences
  • Communication needs and preferences
  • Behaviour support plan (if applicable)
  • Emergency contacts

You or your carer will usually attend a pre-admission meeting to discuss your goals, preferences, and support requirements.

Step 5: Confirm Funding and Payment

For stated STR funding: The provider invoices the NDIA directly through the NDIS portal. No payment from you is required (unless you exceed your allocation).

For flexible Core funding: The provider may invoice through plan management, or you may need to pay upfront and claim reimbursement if self-managing.

Confirm with your provider how invoicing will work before the stay begins.

What to Expect During Your Stay

Arrival

You will usually arrive in the morning or early afternoon on day one. Staff will:

  • Show you to your room and explain house rules
  • Go through your support plan and daily routines
  • Introduce you to other participants (if in a group setting)
  • Confirm medication schedule and any health needs

Daily Routine

A typical day might include:

Morning:

  • Wake up and personal care assistance
  • Breakfast
  • Morning activity (art, gardening, board games)

Afternoon:

  • Lunch
  • Community outing (visit to a cafe, park, shopping centre)
  • Free time or structured activity

Evening:

  • Dinner
  • Evening activity (movie, music, craft)
  • Personal care and bedtime routine

Activities vary by provider. Some offer daily outings, others focus on centre-based activities.

Overnight Support

For participants who need overnight support:

  • Active overnight staff are on duty
  • Sleep-over rates apply for staff providing passive monitoring
  • Active night rates apply if you require regular assistance during the night
  • Alarms and monitoring systems may be used for safety

Skill Building Component

If your STR includes a skill-building goal, staff will:

  • Work with you on specific tasks (cooking a meal, doing laundry, budgeting)
  • Document your progress and provide feedback
  • Report outcomes to your Support Coordinator or family

Communication During the Stay

Most providers allow phone or video calls with family daily. Some encourage family visits during the stay, others discourage it to allow carers a genuine break. Clarify the provider’s policy in advance.

How Much Funding Should You Request?

Typical Annual Allocations

NDIS plans vary widely, but typical STR funding ranges are:

Carer SituationTypical Annual Allocation
Carer with minimal support needs elsewhere7 to 14 nights per year
Carer with moderate support needs14 to 21 nights per year
Carer with high support needs or health issues21 to 28+ nights per year
Skill-building focused STR14 to 28 nights in a defined program

How to Build the Case for STR Funding

To get STR included in your plan or increased at your next review:

1. Demonstrate carer need Provide evidence that your carer needs respite. This could include:

  • Letter from your carer’s GP about carer stress or health issues
  • Statement from a social worker about carer burnout risk
  • Details of your carer’s other commitments (work, other dependants, health appointments)

2. Link to your goals Frame STR as supporting your NDIS goals. For example:

  • “Build independent living skills by practicing routines in a supported environment”
  • “Reduce carer stress to maintain sustainable home-based care”
  • “Develop social skills and peer relationships through group respite”

3. Provide cost estimates Research local providers and bring a quote or cost breakdown to your planning meeting. Show how many nights you are requesting and the total annual cost.

4. Reference previous use If you have used STR before, bring evidence of how it helped you and your carer. Provider reports, carer feedback, and progress notes strengthen your case.

If You Have No STR Funding in Your Current Plan

You may still be able to access STR if:

  • You have flexible Core Supports funding that is not fully stated
  • You request a plan variation to add STR (due to changed circumstances)
  • You wait for your next plan review and request STR then

Speak to your Support Coordinator or LAC about your options.

Choosing the Right Provider

Not all respite providers suit everyone. Consider:

Location

Close to home:

  • Easier for drop-off and pick-up
  • Your carer can visit if needed
  • Familiar local area

Interstate or regional:

  • New experiences and change of scenery
  • May align with family holiday plans (carer goes on holiday while you attend STR nearby)
  • Potentially different activity options

Support Ratio and Participant Mix

Group settings:

  • Ask about the typical participant mix (age, support needs, interests)
  • Will you be with peers you can relate to, or a very mixed group?
  • Some providers cater specifically to younger adults, others to older participants or children

Individual support:

  • More expensive but offers tailored activities and routines
  • May be required if you have complex support needs

Activities and Philosophy

  • What does a typical day look like?
  • Do they focus on community inclusion or centre-based activities?
  • Can they accommodate your interests (sports, arts, music)?
  • Do they support skill development as well as respite?

Accessibility and Specialisation

  • Does the accommodation suit your physical access needs (hoists, hospital beds, wheelchair access)?
  • Do they have experience with your disability type (autism, acquired brain injury, mental health, physical disability)?
  • Can they manage behaviours of concern if relevant?
  • Do they have allied health staff on-site?

Reviews and Reputation

  • Ask your Support Coordinator for recommendations
  • Read reviews on disability community forums
  • Request a tour before booking
  • Ask to speak with other families who have used the service

Common Challenges and How to Solve Them

Challenge 1: No STR Funding in Your Plan

Solution:

  • Use flexible Core Supports if available
  • Request a plan variation citing changed circumstances (e.g., carer health deterioration)
  • Build a strong case for your next plan review with evidence of carer need

Challenge 2: STR Is Fully Booked

Solution:

  • Book 2-3 months ahead, especially for school holidays
  • Ask to be added to a cancellation waitlist
  • Explore providers in neighbouring regions
  • Consider weekday stays instead of weekends (often less demand)

Challenge 3: Provider’s Daily Rate Exceeds Your Budget

Solution:

  • Choose group settings over individual support where appropriate
  • Negotiate shorter stays more frequently rather than one long stay
  • Compare multiple providers to find the best value
  • Ask if the provider offers discounts for longer stays

Challenge 4: You Feel Uncomfortable in Group Settings

Solution:

  • Start with a short 2-3 night stay to try it out
  • Request to meet other participants beforehand
  • Ask the provider about participant mix and compatibility
  • Consider providers offering smaller group sizes (1:2 instead of 1:4)

Challenge 5: Your Carer Feels Guilty About Using Respite

Solution:

  • Frame STR as essential to sustainable caring
  • Share NDIS resources explaining the purpose of respite
  • Start with a short stay and build up
  • Emphasise the skill-building benefits for you

Challenge 6: Poor Experience with a Provider

Solution:

  • Provide feedback to the provider directly (they may address the issue)
  • Lodge a complaint with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission if serious
  • Try a different provider next time
  • Discuss the experience with your Support Coordinator to find a better fit

Medium Term Accommodation (MTA)

If you need accommodation for longer than a few weeks, Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) may be more appropriate than STR.

MTA is for:

  • Participants transitioning between living arrangements (e.g., moving from family home to SIL)
  • Situations where your usual accommodation is temporarily unavailable (house fire, major repairs)
  • Extended skill-building programs preparing for independent living

Key differences from STR:

FeatureSTRMTA
DurationDays to weeks (typically up to 28 days)Weeks to months (up to 90 days, extendable)
PurposeCarer respite or short skill-buildingTransition support or extended skill-building
FundingCore Supports or stated STRUsually stated MTA funding
ApprovalIncluded in plan or requested at reviewOften requires NDIA approval before use

If you think MTA might be more suitable for your situation, discuss with your Support Coordinator or LAC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use STR if I live alone?

No, under current NDIS guidelines. STR is specifically to provide respite for informal carers. If you live alone, there is no carer to provide respite for. You may be able to use community participation funding to stay somewhere with support, but it will not be funded as STR.

Can I stay at a hotel instead of a respite house?

No. STR must be at an NDIS-registered accommodation provider that delivers appropriate supports. Hotels, resorts, and holiday accommodation are on the NDIS list of non-funded supports.

What if I want to go on a holiday with a support worker?

Use your community participation funding to pay for the support worker’s time during the holiday. You pay for the accommodation, flights, meals, and activities yourself. This is not STR.

How far in advance should I book?

At least 4 to 8 weeks for weekday stays, and 8 to 12 weeks for weekends or school holidays. Popular providers and peak periods book out months in advance.

Can my family visit during the stay?

This varies by provider. Some encourage family visits, others discourage them to give carers a genuine break. Clarify the policy when booking.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Check the provider’s cancellation policy. Most require at least 14 days notice. Late cancellations may incur fees. If you cancel with adequate notice, your funding is not spent and remains available.

Can I use STR for emergency situations?

STR is not designed for crisis or emergency accommodation. For emergency accommodation needs, contact mainstream crisis services. However, if your carer has a sudden health crisis, providers sometimes accommodate urgent bookings if space is available.

Do I have to stay the full time I booked?

You can usually request early pick-up, but you will likely still be charged for the days you booked. Check the provider’s policy.

Can I bring my own food or medication?

Meals are provided as part of STR. You cannot usually bring your own food unless you have very specific dietary needs that the provider cannot accommodate. You must provide your own medication in its original packaging with clear instructions.

What if I don’t get along with other participants?

Raise concerns with staff immediately. Most providers can adjust activities or routines to reduce conflict. If the situation does not improve, you can request early pick-up and provide feedback to the provider afterward.

Are pets allowed?

This varies by provider. Some allow participants to bring companion animals or pets, especially for emotional support. Others do not due to allergies or safety concerns. Ask when booking.

Can I attend STR with a friend who is also on the NDIS?

Yes, if the provider has capacity and both of you have STR funding. Some participants prefer this for social support and familiarity.

What if the provider makes a mistake with my medication or care?

Report it immediately to the provider and to your family or carer. Serious incidents must be reported to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. Providers have incident management systems and must investigate and respond.

How do I know if a provider is NDIS-registered?

Check the NDIS provider finder at ndis.gov.au or ask the provider for their registration number. Only registered providers can claim NDIS funding for STR.

Key Resources

NDIS Official Resources:

Support and Advocacy:

Related MD Home Care Guides:

How MD Home Care Can Help

MD Home Care does not operate dedicated respite accommodation, but we connect you with providers who offer in-home support that can complement your respite planning:

Respite at home: If your carer needs a break but you prefer to stay home, MD Home Care can connect you with qualified support workers who provide in-home respite care, allowing your carer time away while you remain in familiar surroundings.

Transition support: If you are preparing for STR or SIL, providers on our platform can help you build daily living skills at home before your stay.

Post-respite support: When you return from STR, providers found through MD Home Care can offer continuity of care and help you maintain the skills you practiced during your stay.

Contact MD Home Care to find the right in-home support provider for you and your carer.