What is short term accommodation (STA)?

Short term accommodation, commonly known as respite, allows a person with disability to stay in an alternate residence away from their usual home for a limited time. These stays typically range from a single night to several weeks and are funded through an individual's NDIS core supports plan. The arrangement provides a structured break in routine and can serve several practical purposes: giving primary carers relief from day-to-day support duties, allowing the participant to experience different environments or social settings, or providing continuity of care during family emergencies or planned absence.

STA operates differently from other residential options. It is designed as a temporary measure rather than permanent relocation, and the funding arrangement reflects its episodic nature. Accommodation may be provided in group houses, community facilities, specialist respite properties, or supported independent living arrangements, depending on the participant's needs and preferences. The service typically includes meals, assistance with daily living tasks, and supervision or support appropriate to the person's support requirements.

Short term accommodation is distinct from crisis or emergency accommodation (which responds to immediate need) and from permanent supported living arrangements. It allows participants to maintain their primary home while accessing temporary alternative support. For many families managing disability support, STA offers planned, predictable breaks that support both participant wellbeing and carer sustainability. Find STA providers in Perth.