NDIS respite accommodation lets a participant stay somewhere away from home for a short period while their usual carer takes a break. It is funded under Short Term Accommodation and Assistance (STA) in the Core budget, which bundles accommodation, food, personal support and activities, generally up to 28 days a year.
Respite accommodation is a stay outside the participant’s own home, often in purpose-built short-term accommodation, a host family setting or a shared house. The everyday word is respite, but in an NDIS plan it appears as Short Term Accommodation and Assistance (STA).
STA is a bundled support. A single rate covers the accommodation itself, meals, day-to-day personal support and group or individual activities while the participant is away. This packaging is what separates it from in-home arrangements, where support comes to the person instead.
STA is typically available for up to 28 days across a plan year, which families often use as occasional weekends or a longer block. It is drawn from the flexible Core budget rather than a line item literally labelled respite, so the language in your plan may differ from how you describe it day to day.
The NDIS sets maximum prices for STA that vary by region and by the level of support a person needs. Prices are reviewed each year on 1 July. For current figures, check the NDIS price guide rather than relying on older numbers.
It suits situations where a change of environment helps, or where the home cannot be safely staffed for a period, for example when a carer travels, is unwell, or simply needs an extended rest. Younger participants sometimes use it to build independence away from family before any move to longer-term living.
Booked weekends or holiday blocks so a carer can rest or travel with notice.
Time away from home that helps a participant practise living more independently.
Short stays when the home cannot be staffed, such as during a carer's illness.
Confirm you have Core funding flexible enough to cover STA, then talk to a provider about availability, the support level required and what a typical day looks like. A support coordinator can help you compare options and book. Always check that the booking is documented as STA so it is recorded against the right part of your budget.
Learn how respite and short-term stays can give carers a break while supports continue.
See respite supports →