STA Accommodation Options & Facilities
Comprehensive guide to different types of STA accommodation including purpose-built facilities, host families, independent units, and group settings. Learn about facilities, support levels, and what to expect.
Quick Comparison
STA Accommodation Options at a Glance
| Accommodation Type | Capacity | Support Level | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purpose-Built STA Facilities | Individual rooms to group settings | 24/7 support available | $150-350 per night | People who need regular support, enjoy social interaction, or require specialized equipment and facilities. |
Host Family Arrangements | 1-2 individuals | Family-based support | $80-180 per night | People who prefer home environments, enjoy family life, or want to experience different cultures and communities. |
Supported Independent Units | 1-2 people | Support available as needed | $120-280 per night | People with good independence skills who value privacy and want to practice self-care in a supported environment. |
Group Accommodation | 3-8 residents | Shared support staff | $100-200 per night | People who enjoy social interaction, want to make friends, or prefer shared living arrangements and group activities. |
Detailed Guide
Complete Guide to STA Accommodation Types
Each accommodation type offers different experiences, support levels, and amenities. Choose based on your preferences and needs.
Purpose-Built STA Facilities
Dedicated facilities designed specifically for short-term accommodation with disability support and accessibility features.
Capacity
Individual rooms to group settings
Support
24/7 support available
Price Range
$150-350 per night
Best For
People who need regular support, enjoy social interaction, or require specialized equipment and facilities.
Features
- Fully accessible design throughout
- On-site support staff 24/7
- Shared common areas and facilities
- Structured activity programs
- Disability-specific equipment
- Emergency response systems
- Meal preparation services
- Laundry facilities
Amenities
- Accessible bathrooms and showers
- Wheelchair accessible throughout
- Sensory spaces and quiet areas
- Outdoor accessible gardens
- Activity and therapy rooms
- Dining areas and kitchens
- Parking and transport access
- Wi-Fi and entertainment systems
Benefits
- Professional disability support
- Safe and secure environment
- Social interaction opportunities
- Structured daily programs
- Specialized equipment available
- Proven quality and reliability
Considerations
- More institutional feel
- Limited privacy
- Shared spaces with others
- Structured routines
- Higher cost
- May feel clinical
Host Family Arrangements
Stay with trained and approved families who provide accommodation and support in their family home environment.
Capacity
1-2 individuals
Support
Family-based support
Price Range
$80-180 per night
Best For
People who prefer home environments, enjoy family life, or want to experience different cultures and communities.
Features
- Home-like environment
- Family atmosphere and interaction
- Personal attention and care
- Community integration
- Flexible meal arrangements
- Shared family activities
- Cultural and language matching
- Pet-friendly options available
Amenities
- Private or shared bedroom
- Access to family living areas
- Home-cooked meals
- Backyard and outdoor spaces
- Family transportation
- Household amenities
- Local community access
- Family pets and atmosphere
Benefits
- Warm, homely environment
- Personal relationships
- Cultural experiences
- Flexible arrangements
- Lower cost option
- Community connections
Considerations
- Less professional support
- Family rules and routines
- Potential personality clashes
- Limited specialized equipment
- Dependent on family availability
- Less structured programs
Supported Independent Units
Self-contained accommodation units with support staff available as needed, offering more independence and privacy.
Capacity
1-2 people
Support
Support available as needed
Price Range
$120-280 per night
Best For
People with good independence skills who value privacy and want to practice self-care in a supported environment.
Features
- Private self-contained unit
- Own kitchen and bathroom
- Support staff on-call
- Independence focus
- Flexible support hours
- Privacy and autonomy
- Modern accommodation
- Urban locations often available
Amenities
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Private bathroom and shower
- Living and sleeping areas
- Laundry facilities
- Air conditioning/heating
- Internet and TV
- Parking space
- Private outdoor space
Benefits
- Complete privacy
- Independence practice
- Flexible daily routine
- Modern amenities
- Self-catering option
- Professional support available
Considerations
- Higher cost
- More responsibility required
- Support not always immediate
- Can feel isolated
- Need independence skills
- Limited social interaction
Group Accommodation
Shared accommodation with other NDIS participants, offering social opportunities and cost-effective support.
Capacity
3-8 residents
Support
Shared support staff
Price Range
$100-200 per night
Best For
People who enjoy social interaction, want to make friends, or prefer shared living arrangements and group activities.
Features
- Shared living with peers
- Private bedrooms
- Shared common areas
- Group activities and outings
- Peer support opportunities
- Cost-effective option
- Social interaction focus
- Structured group routines
Amenities
- Private bedroom space
- Shared kitchen and dining
- Common lounge areas
- Shared bathroom facilities
- Group activity spaces
- Outdoor areas
- Transport for group outings
- Entertainment systems
Benefits
- Social connections
- Peer learning
- Cost-effective
- Group activities
- Shared experiences
- Built-in companionship
Considerations
- Less privacy
- Group dynamics
- Shared facilities
- Need compatibility with others
- Group rules and schedules
- Potential conflicts
Standard Features
Common Facilities & Services
Most STA accommodations provide these essential facilities and services, though specific offerings may vary by provider.
Accessibility Features
- Wheelchair accessible entrances and pathways
- Accessible bathrooms with grab rails
- Height-adjustable beds and furniture
- Visual and hearing support systems
- Sensory-friendly spaces
- Emergency call systems
- Accessible parking spaces
- Ramps and lifts where needed
Support Services
- Personal care assistance
- Medication management
- 24/7 support availability
- Emergency response procedures
- Allied health coordination
- Transport assistance
- Activity coordination
- Meal preparation support
Recreation & Activities
- Group activities and outings
- Art and craft sessions
- Entertainment systems
- Exercise and wellness programs
- Social events and celebrations
- Educational workshops
- Community participation
- Individual activity support
Essential Amenities
- Meals and dietary accommodation
- Laundry services and facilities
- Wi-Fi and communication access
- Climate control systems
- Secure personal storage
- Visitor areas and parking
- Kitchen and dining facilities
- Cleaning and housekeeping
Your Stay Experience
What to Expect During Your STA Stay
Understanding what happens during your stay helps you prepare and make the most of your STA experience.
Daily Routine & Schedule
Flexible Structure: Most STA provides structure while respecting your preferences and routine.
- Regular meal times with dietary accommodation
- Optional participation in group activities
- Personal care support as needed
- Quiet time and rest periods
- Social activities and outings
Support & Safety
Professional Care: Trained staff available to provide appropriate support and ensure your safety.
- 24/7 staff availability for emergencies
- Medication management and reminders
- Emergency response procedures
- Regular check-ins and welfare monitoring
- Access to healthcare professionals