What is NDIS Respite Care?
Respite care, officially called Short Term Accommodation (STA) under the NDIS, gives participants a supported break away from home while providing their regular carers with time to rest and recharge. It is one of the most important — and underused — supports available in NDIS plans.
At Destiny Community Services, we provide respite care (STA) across South Australia, Tasmania, and NSW. Here is everything families need to know about accessing this support.
How Does Respite Care Work Under the NDIS?
NDIS respite care covers accommodation, personal support, and activities for stays of up to 14 days at a time. It is funded under the Core Supports budget in your NDIS plan, specifically under the category “Assistance with Daily Life.”
During a respite stay, participants receive:
- Safe, comfortable accommodation
- Personal care support (showering, dressing, meals)
- Social activities and community engagement
- 24/7 support from trained disability workers
- A chance to build independence skills in a new environment
Who is Eligible for Respite Care?
Any NDIS participant with STA funding in their plan can access respite care. If your plan does not currently include STA, you can request it at your next plan review. Common reasons the NDIA approves STA funding include:
- Primary carers need regular breaks to maintain their own health
- The participant wants to practise living independently
- Family circumstances require temporary alternative accommodation
- The participant is transitioning toward Supported Independent Living (SIL)
- Emergency or crisis situations at home
How Much Does NDIS Respite Care Cost?
Respite care is fully funded through your NDIS plan — there is no out-of-pocket cost to participants. The NDIS price guide sets the rates, which cover accommodation and support hours combined. Your support coordinator or plan manager can help you understand how many days of respite your plan allows.
As a general guide, most participants with STA funding receive between 14 and 28 days per year, depending on their individual circumstances and plan goals.
Benefits of Respite Care for Participants
Respite is not just a break for carers — it is a genuine growth opportunity for participants:
- Independence skills: Practise cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and self-care in a supported setting
- Social connections: Meet new people, join group activities, and build friendships
- Confidence building: Experience living away from home with professional support available
- New experiences: Try activities and outings through community access programs
- Transition preparation: A stepping stone toward full-time independent living
Benefits for Families and Carers
Caring for someone with a disability is rewarding but demanding. Carer burnout is real, and respite care exists to prevent it:
- Time to rest, attend appointments, or focus on other family members
- Peace of mind knowing your loved one is safe and supported
- Reduced stress and improved long-term sustainability of the care relationship
- Opportunity to see your family member thrive in a new environment
What to Look for in a Respite Provider
Not all respite experiences are equal. When choosing a provider in South Australia, look for:
- NDIS registration: Only registered providers can deliver STA supports
- Experienced staff: Workers trained in your specific support needs (mental health, autism, complex care)
- Person-centred approach: Activities and routines tailored to the participant, not one-size-fits-all
- Location options: Providers who operate across multiple regions give you flexibility
- Quality and safety record: Check with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
How to Access Respite Care with Destiny Community Services
Getting started is straightforward:
- Check your plan: Confirm you have STA funding in your Core Supports budget
- Contact us: Call 0421 453 186 or submit a referral
- Plan together: We discuss your goals, preferences, and support needs
- Book your stay: Choose dates that work for you and your family
- Enjoy the experience: Our team handles everything from meals to activities
We provide respite care across Adelaide, the Riverland, Tasmania, and NSW.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose when to use respite care?
Yes. Respite can be planned around school holidays, family events, or whenever suits you best. You can also access emergency respite if an urgent situation arises.
What should my family member bring?
Personal items like clothing, medications, and comfort items from home. We provide all bedding, meals, and activities.
Can respite care lead to SIL?
Absolutely. Many participants use respite stays to trial independent living before committing to a full-time SIL arrangement. It gives both the participant and their family confidence that the transition will work.
How far in advance do I need to book?
We recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks ahead for planned respite. Emergency or short-notice requests are accommodated where capacity allows.
Ready to Book Respite Care?
Whether you are a participant looking for your first respite experience or a family needing regular breaks, Destiny Community Services is here to help. Our team brings over 40 years of nursing and disability expertise to every stay.
Contact us today or call 0421 453 186 to discuss your respite care needs. You can also submit a referral online and we will be in touch within 2 business days.