Short Term Accommodation (STA) Guide
Complete guide to NDIS Short Term Accommodation - from respite care and emergency housing to holiday support and trial stays. Find the right STA solution for your needs.
What is Short Term Accommodation?
Short Term Accommodation (STA) provides temporary accommodation and support for NDIS participants for various purposes including respite care, emergency housing, holidays, and trial accommodation experiences.
STA is designed to provide flexible, temporary accommodation solutions that support both NDIS participants and their families. Whether you need respite care, emergency accommodation, or want to experience different living arrangements, STA offers safe, supportive environments with appropriate care and supervision.
Unlike permanent accommodation options, STA is specifically designed for short-term stays ranging from one night to several months, providing opportunities to access professional support, try new experiences, and give family carers essential breaks.
Flexible Duration
From overnight stays to several months, depending on your needs
Various Support Levels
From independent stays to 24/7 care based on your needs

Did you know? Over 40,000 NDIS participants use STA services annually for respite, holidays, and emergency accommodation.
How STA Can Support You and Your Family
STA provides essential support for both participants and their families, offering flexibility, safety, and peace of mind.
Essential breaks for family carers to rest, recharge, and attend to personal needs while ensuring continued quality care.
Immediate accommodation when your usual housing becomes unavailable due to emergencies or unexpected circumstances.
Opportunity to experience different accommodation types, locations, and support arrangements before long-term commitments.
Supported holiday experiences and recreational opportunities with appropriate care and supervision.
Find Your STA Pathway
Choose the pathway that best matches your current situation and needs.
Immediate support for crisis situations
Quick Steps:
- 1Contact STA providers immediately
- 2Provide basic information
- 3Emergency placement within 24-48 hours
Scheduled breaks for family carers
Quick Steps:
- 1Identify respite needs
- 2Find suitable providers
- 3Book 2-4 weeks in advance
Trial stays before permanent decisions
Quick Steps:
- 1Research accommodation types
- 2Book trial stays
- 3Compare experiences
Recreation and travel with support
Quick Steps:
- 1Choose destinations
- 2Book holiday accommodation
- 3Plan activities and support
Explore STA Topics in Detail
Dive deeper into specific aspects of Short Term Accommodation with our comprehensive topic guides.
Explore the 6 main types of STA including respite care, emergency accommodation, holiday support, and trial stays. Understand eligibility and when each type is most appropriate.
Topics Covered:
Discover different STA accommodation types from purpose-built facilities to host families and independent units. Learn what facilities and support are available.
Topics Covered:
Master the STA booking process including timeline requirements, information needed, and planning strategies for successful stays.
Topics Covered:
Understand STA funding from your NDIS plan, what's included in costs, pricing models, and how to maximize your STA budget effectively.
Topics Covered:
Critical information about accessing emergency STA when you need immediate accommodation due to crisis situations or unexpected circumstances.
Topics Covered:
Comprehensive guide to using STA for family respite including regular breaks, planned respite, and supporting family carer wellbeing.
Topics Covered:
Know your rights during STA stays, complaint processes, advocacy resources, and how to ensure quality support and accommodation.
Topics Covered:
Related NDIS Support Types
Explore other NDIS support types that might complement your STA usage or provide alternative accommodation solutions.
Ready to Explore STA Options?
Whether you need emergency accommodation, respite care, or want to explore holiday options, we're here to help you understand STA and find suitable providers.
