22 October 2025 – Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

At My Plan Assist, we know that everyone needs a break sometimes – including you and the people who support you.  That’s where Short Term Respite (STR) comes in.  This was previously known as Short Term Accommodation (STA).

What is Short Term Respite?  

Short Term Respite gives you a temporary break from your usual care arrangements.  It also gives your informal supports (unpaid family and carers) some time to rest and recharge, so they can continue supporting you in the long run.  STR is about making sure you and your supports get time apart to relax and refresh.

Who can use STR?  

STR is for NDIS participants who:

• Live with their primary informal supports (like family or friends), or
• Receive daily drop-in support from them, and
• Get more than 6 hours of disability related support per day from their informal support

For children, STR is only funded when their disability support needs are beyond what’s typical for their age, and the support helps their family continue in their caring role.

What STR Can Include?

Accommodation: Short Term Respite can cover standard accommodation with a clean, comfortable place with basic amenities like a bed, bathroom, and accessibility features you may need.  This could be a hotel or motel, short stay rental, cabin, cottage, hostel or respite accommodation.

The standard accommodation can be for you and a support worker (if overnight support is needed).

Meals: If you are staying in a Centre or Group Residence, your provider may include meals as part of the daily rate.  In an individual setting, NDIS funding cannot be used to cover the cost of food for you or your support worker, including meals from restaurants, meal delivery services, meal kits, or groceries purchased from supermarkets or similar outlets.

Activities: If you are staying in a Centre or Group Residence, your provider may include activities as part of the daily rate.  In an individual setting, NDIS funding cannot be used to pay for activity costs for you or your support worker.  This includes tickets, entry fees, equipment, or membership fees.

Where and How you can use STR?

You and your provider can plan your STR together – deciding how often, where, and what kind of support you need.

STR can:

• Be used in group or individual settings
• Take place within your home state or territory
• Even happen in your own home, if it gives your carers a break

Funding and Flexibility

STR is a flexible support funded from your Core Budget.  You have choice and control over how you use it as long as it fits within your NDIS plan and guidelines.  Refer to “Who can use STR” at the start of this article to see if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Most participants can receive up to 28 days per year, usually no more than 14 days at a time.

You only pay for the supports you actually use, so if you don’t use a full day, your provider should adjust the cost.

Next Steps with My Plan Assist?

If you are a My plan Assist client and have an upcoming Short Term Respite planned, we kindly ask that you complete our Short Term Respite Form in this link.  This helps us gather all the necessary information in advance, ensuring a smooth process when it’s time to arrange payment for your respite stay.

By completing this form ahead of time, you’ll also have peace of mind knowing your supports are confirmed and everything is ready to go – allowing you to relax and enjoy your break with confidence.

Need further advice or help using your Short Term Accommodation funding?  Contact our friendly team – we’re here to help you make your NDIS plan work for you.

My Plan Assist Phone: 07 5641 2277

My Plan Assist Email: [email protected]

My Plan Assist Website: www.myplanassist.com.au