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Updates to Short Term Accommodation
The NDIS refers to Short Term Accommodation (STA), which is also commonly described as respite care.
This new name better reflects what the support actually does: providing participants and their informal supports with a break from usual care arrangements.
This allows carers, family members, or informal supports to take a break and rest.
Although some people in the community are not sure about the word “respite,” it is well-known and understood by carers.
What Short Term Respite Is For
Short Term Accommodation (STA) is for participants who live with or get daily help from their informal supports.
For children, this support is available when their disability-related needs are significantly higher than what is typical for their age, and when it supports the family to continue providing care.
This support is not for people who already have a lot of paid support, such as Supported Independent Living, or for general activities like holidays or going to events.
Instead, short term respite provides a safe, comfortable environment (which could be at home, in a hotel, a cabin, or another suitable place) where the participant continues to receive the same level of support they usually receive in their home environment.
How It Is Funded and Used
Participants have the choice and control of how they use this support.
It is funded through the Core Supports budget. It can generally be used for up to 28 days per year, usually in blocks of up to 14 days at a time, depending on what the person needs and their plan funding.
To learn more, NDIS Short Term Accommodation (STA) guidelines have been updated with more details.
It explains:
- who can use Short Term Accommodation (STA)
- what it includes
- how and where it can be used
- how decisions are made
If you are unsure about whether you are eligible or how to include short term respite in your plan, contact your NDIS representative or support coordinator for guidance and support.
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