STA Is Now STR: What the NDIS Changes Mean for Short Term Respite
Hand in Hand Support Coordination • December 12, 2025
In late 2025, the NDIS announced important updates to how Short Term Accommodation (STA) is funded and delivered, including a name change to Short Term Respite (STR).
While this might seem like a small adjustment, it reflects a shift in how the NDIS wants to clarify and guide the use of this funding. For participants, carers, and providers, it's important to understand what’s changing, what’s already in place, and how to prepare.
The Reason for the Name Change
The term Short Term Respite (STR) more accurately reflects the intent of the funding, which is to provide:
- A break for carers
- A temporary, supportive environment for participants to continue receiving the care they need
Previously, STA was sometimes used for recreational getaways or holiday-style bookings, which blurred the lines around what the NDIS was actually funding. The STR update makes it clear: this support is not about holidays, but about maintaining carer relationships and participant stability.
Key Changes to Know
Name Change
STA has been renamed to STR to highlight that this support is intended for respite, not recreation. It allows the carer to rest while ensuring the participant continues to receive consistent, appropriate care.
Purpose
Short Term Respite is designed for:
- Carer relief
- Participant rest and routine support
- Continuity of personal care and daily needs
It is not intended for:
- Skill-building or therapy programs
- Social development activities
- Vacations or tourism-based breaks
Funding and Timeframes
- Participants typically have access to up to 28 days of STR per year
- With a maximum of 14 consecutive days at a time
- The support provided during STR should reflect the participant’s usual care — such as personal care, support with routines, or supervision
Invoicing and Provider Responsibilities
From late 2025, providers are expected to:
- Separate and itemise costs for accommodation, support, and any activities
- Show that charges align with respite care, not luxury or tourism offerings
- Deliver support that is consistent with the participant’s regular daily needs
Providers can no longer bundle STR as an "all-inclusive" experience or promote it as a holiday-style break.
What You Can Do Now
1. Check Your Plan
Look at your
Core Supports budget. STR is often included as a stated support or specific line item. If you’re unsure, speak to your Support Coordinator or planner.
2. Talk to Your Provider
Ensure they:
- Deliver care aligned with your regular needs
- Provide clear, itemised invoices
- Offer respite in a suitable setting, whether at home, in a respite centre, or in temporary accommodation
3. Stay Within the Guidelines
When using STR funding, make sure the support:
- Follows NDIS guidelines
- Doesn’t duplicate other funded supports
- Clearly demonstrates the purpose is respite, not a holiday
4. Use Flexibly, but Consistently
STR is designed to be flexible, but the
type of care delivered should remain consistent, even if the location changes
Why This Matters
These changes are about ensuring:
- Carers are supported to rest and recharge
- Participants continue to receive safe, appropriate, and familiar support
- NDIS funds are used effectively, in line with their intended purpose
How Can Support Coordinators Help?
Especially at Level 2 and Level 3, Support Coordinators play a key role in helping participants:
- Navigate, arrange, and monitor the use of STR
- Find and connect with suitable STR providers
- Understand how STR fits within their plan
- Coordinate support during times of carer fatigue, crisis, or high-risk behaviour
- Identify and address any issues with provider invoices or unclear claims
While Support Coordinators don’t manage participant budgets, they do help participants understand and advocate for correct usage and support them in flagging or clarifying invoicing when something seems off.
Where Does Hand in Hand Fit In?
Based in Melbourne, specialising in Level 2 Support Coordination and Level 3, Hand in Hand Support Coordination:
- Helps participants understand and use STR correctly
- Works with providers to ensure services align with NDIS guidelines
- Advocates for additional respite or crisis funding, where appropriate
- Coordinates complex or emergency STR arrangements
- Supports families facing burnout, stress, or behavioural challenges
Need Help Understanding STR?
If you're based in Melbourne or Victoria and would like help reviewing your NDIS plan, understanding Short Term Respite changes, or arranging appropriate support, we're here to help. Contact Hand in Hand Support Coordination.
We hope this blog was useful.
Hand in Hand Support Coordination specialises in personalised NDIS Support Coordination for participants with complex mental health and physical disabilities across Melbourne and Victoria, focusing on Level 2 and 3 support to create tailored support that aligns with goals and budget.
