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The information in this article was updated and correct as of 29 October 2025.
Our specialised accommodation team now reviews all invoices. As part of this process, you may be asked for additional information to support your claim, ensuring alignment with NDIS guidelines.
While we can’t guarantee NDIA approval, providing this information upfront improves the chances of a successful claim.
What is Short Term Respite (STR)?
Previously known as Short Term Accommodation, Short Term Respite (STR) provides support for participants needing to stay away from home for a short period, often for respite care. It can offer carers a temporary break from their duties.
Short Term Respite includes the support you receive during your stay.
General Short Term Respite rules
- Must involve at least one overnight stay.
- Capped at up to 14 days per stay, and 28 days per year (extensions only in exceptional circumstances).
- Purpose is to sustain informal supports — not to replace them or provide leisure.
- Meals, activities, and transport are explicitly excluded unless part of a centre’s all-inclusive daily rate.
NDIS Short Term Respite eligibility requirements
You may be eligible for Short Term Respite if any of the below applies to you
- Live with or receive more than 6 hours/day of support from informal carers.
- Have disability-related support needs requiring ongoing care.
- Fit at least one of the following: high-intensity supports, behavioural supports, rural isolation, or multiple family caring responsibilities.
- You get support from primary informal supports, whose wellbeing and capacity to continue their caring role is at risk.
- Your primary informal supports have additional caring responsibilities. For example: young children or other family members with disability support needs.
You will not be eligible for Short Term Respite if any of the below applies to you:
- Living independently without drop-in supports.
- Already receiving more than 18 hours paid daily supports.
- Using supported independent living (SIL) or individualised living options (ILO).
What is not included in Short Term Respite?
The following items and travel are not considered NDIS support and cannot be claimed through Short Term Respite:
- Interstate travel
- Short Term Respite where informal supports were also attending
- Visiting family & friends
- Work related travel
- School holiday programs
- Cruises
- Health retreats
- Holiday accommodation
- Entry tickets to events
- Travel, food or activity costs for one-on-one care cannot be claimed through Short Term Respite (this would be considered a personal expense)
- Living alone and independently or receiving SIL supports – are no longer eligible for Short Term Respite
- For any reason as outlined in the supports that cannot be claimed list.
Key questions to consider when booking Short Term Respite
- Is it written in your plan? (check with your ‘My NDIS Contact’ before you arrange your Short Term Respite).
- Have you been funded for 1-1 support in your plan or group funding?
- Do you live with or receive more than 6 hours/day of support from informal carers? You may be eligible if so.
- Are you already receiving more than 18 hours paid daily supports? This may affect your eligibility.
- What is the reason for Short Term Respite?
- Does the accommodation component of the Short Term Respite represent value for money?
- Are you using a registered NDIS respite provider?
- Do you have a service agreement with your provider?
- Does attending Short Term Respite provide respite for your usual carers?
Any questions?
Remember, we’re with you every step of the way. Contact our team using our Live Chat function, email [email protected] or call 1800 549 670.