Short Term Accommodation (STA) and respite is NDIS funding for support and accommodation for a short stay away from a participant’s usual home. 

The NDIS funds STA under the Core Support category Assistance with Daily Living. 

The amount of funding a participant receives depends on the level of support they require. Generally, the more support their informal network (e.g. family) provides, the more breaks this network will require throughout the year, therefore the more STA funding the participant receives. 

There can be up to 28 days of STA in a plan, which can be used for short stays with other people, or buy oneself for up to 14 days at a time. It is generally funded at a group price, unless evidence is provided that individual support is required due to disability. 

STA isn’t just about accommodation, also covering costs associated with personal care, food and activities agreed upon between participants and providers. 

Interested participants should discuss STA funding with their LAC or NDIA planner during their planning or plan review meeting. Any supporting documentation (e.g. letters of support from psychologists or occupational therapists) would be extremely beneficial. A letter from an informal support (e.g. family member) would be equally beneficial, explaining their role and how giving them a break could prevent burnout. 

STA does not need to be stated in a plan or included as a goal – if there is sufficient funding in a participant’s Core budget, it may be used for STA where it meets the Can I Buy It Checklist.

The NDIA may fund STA with other supports that provide a respite effect, considering the risks and benefits to the wellbeing of the informal support network.