Families often use the word respite to mean a break for the carer. The NDIS funds Short Term Accommodation (STA), which is a stay for the participant. The break for the family is a positive side effect — not the funded purpose. That subtle distinction changes how you write goals, how you book stays, and what you can expect to be reimbursed for.
What STA covers
- Accommodation, including utilities and household consumables
- Personal care for the duration of the stay
- Meals and food
- Activities and community access during the stay
How much is typically funded?
Most plans include up to 28 days of STA per year, often used as weekends or one-week blocks. Stays can be recurring (every six weeks, for example) or one-off.
28 days
Common annual allocation
2–7 nights
Typical stay length
2–4 weeks
Booking lead time
1:1 to 1:3
Funding ratio
STA vs MTA vs SIL
STA is short-term, usually under a month. MTA (Medium Term Accommodation) bridges longer transitions, typically up to 90 days. SIL is ongoing. Mixing them up at plan time costs months of misalignment.
- STA — planned short stays, respite, transitions
- MTA — bridge housing while long-term housing is confirmed
- SIL — ongoing rostered support in a long-term home
Booking well, not just booking
A good STA stay is planned around the participant: their routine, communication style and interests. Activities are agreed in advance, food preferences are documented, and the support team is briefed before arrival.
Quick answers
Can STA include a family member?▾
Generally no — STA funds the participant's stay. Family stays are not NDIS-funded.
Can STA be used in an emergency?▾
Yes, where available. Some providers (including Bon Voyage Respites) reserve rapid STA capacity for crisis bookings.
How is STA claimed?▾
Daily rate from the NDIS Price Guide, billed by the provider to the participant's plan.
Key takeaway
Write STA goals around the participant, not the carer. Plan stays as experiences, not babysitting. Use your annual allocation deliberately, not all at once in December.
Bon Voyage Respites
Intake team
Written by the people delivering supports every day across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
