NDIS respite & short-term accommodation (STA)
What many people call “respite” is funded on the NDIS as Short Term Accommodation, or STA. Here's what it covers, who it helps, and how it works.
“Respite” is now funded as STA
If you're searching for “respite”, you're in the right place — it's just that the NDIS funds it under a different name. A short break away from your usual home is funded as Short Term Accommodation (STA).
The everyday word is still respite; the funding label is STA. Same idea: a short stay somewhere else, with support.
What a stay includes
STA is usually bundled — it brings together everything you need for a short stay in one funded package, rather than paying for each piece separately.
- Accommodation — a place to stay for a short period away from home.
- Personal care & support — the day-to-day help you'd normally have, provided during the stay.
- Food — meals during your stay are generally included.
- Activities — things to do — outings and social activities as part of the stay.
Who it's for — and both reasons are valid
STA serves two purposes at once, and neither is “selfish”: it gives you a change of scene, new experiences and a bit of independence — and it gives the family or carers who usually support you a genuine break.
It's often funded from your Core budget (Assistance with Daily Life), and plans commonly allow up to around 28 days a year — but the amount depends on your plan, so check yours or ask your support coordinator.
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Find matching providersCommon questions
Is respite the same as STA?
Effectively yes. “Respite” is the everyday word for a short break; the NDIS funds it as Short Term Accommodation (STA). If you were told your plan has STA, that's your respite funding.
What does STA include?
It's usually bundled: accommodation, personal care and support, meals, and activities for a short stay away from home — all in one package.
How much respite or STA can I get?
It depends on your plan. Plans commonly allow up to around 28 days a year, often from the Core budget, but check your own plan or ask your support coordinator.
What's the difference between STA and SIL?
STA (Short Term Accommodation) is a short break away from home. SIL (Supported Independent Living) is ongoing daily support where you live. Different supports for different needs.
This is general information to help you get oriented — not official advice, and everyone’s situation is different. The NDIS is changing, so for the current rules always check ndis.gov.au or talk to your planner, Local Area Coordinator, or support coordinator.