NDIS respite explained: giving families a genuine break
Caring for a young adult with disability is a full-time commitment. NDIS respite, funded through Short Term Accommodation (STA), is designed to give families a genuine break while their young adult enjoys a change of scene with the right support.
Last updated: August 2026 | By Mo & Kaay Vig | 2 min read
What is short term accommodation?
STA is the NDIS funding that pays for a short stay away from home. It covers the support, the accommodation, meals and activities (NDIS, What is short-term respite?). It is most often used for respite, a planned break for both the participant and their family.
How long can a respite stay be?
Stays can range from a single night to a couple of weeks, depending on your needs and your NDIS funding (NDIS, What is short-term respite?). Respite can be planned well in advance, and in some cases arranged at shorter notice where a place is available.
What makes good respite?
- A warm, home-like setting rather than a clinical facility
- Trained, screened support workers your young adult can get to know
- Engaging activities and community outings
- Daily updates so families can truly switch off
If your family needs a break, talk to us about respite in Cranbourne. Contact us and we will help you work out whether it sits in your plan.
Choosing the right provider makes all the difference for a genuine break. Our guide to choosing an NDIS provider in Cranbourne shows you how to vet them properly. And to understand how respite and Supported Independent Living fit together in one plan, read our complete guide to SIL and respite in Cranbourne.