STA and respite explained (2026-27)
NDIS short term respite (previously called short term accommodation, or STA) is funding for a short stay away from home of up to 14 days at a time, with support. It's usually paid from your Core budget. Since the 2026-27 Pricing Schedule, STA is unbundled. That means accommodation, support-worker accommodation (where needed) and the actual support hours are claimed separately.
Last updated: 12 October 2026 · Prices from the NDIS Pricing Schedule 2026-27 (effective 1 July 2026) · Reviewed by: Equal Access Care HR department
What STA pays for
- Your accommodation for each day of the stay
- Accommodation for a support worker, if one needs to stay
- The support hours you actually receive, at the time-of-day rate
- A sleepover, if one is needed
2026-27 national price limits (NDIA-managed and plan-managed)
| Item | Unit | National limit |
|---|---|---|
| 01_250_0115_1_1 STA – Participant accommodation | Day | $162.85 |
| 01_251_0115_1_1 STA – Support worker accommodation | Day | $162.85 |
| 01_200_0115_1_1 STA – Standard – Weekday daytime | Hour | $73.58 |
| 01_201_0115_1_1 STA – Standard – Weekday evening | Hour | $81.07 |
| 01_206_0115_1_1 STA – Sleepover | Each | $311.79 |
| 01_252_0115_1_1 STA – High intensity – Weekday daytime | Hour | $79.60 |
Remote and very remote limits are higher. Self-managed participants aren't bound by these limits. Source: NDIS Pricing Schedule 2026-27.
Who STA is for
People whose plan includes STA funding, for a break for them or their carers, or to try new experiences. If you're waiting for a long-term home, medium term accommodation (MTA) may suit better.
Booking a stay with us
- Check your plan has STA funding, or ask your support coordinator.
- Send us a referral or call 0412 306 722.
- We call back the same day and tell you honestly which dates we have. Stays depend on current vacancies, so see SIL and respite referrals.
Sources: Short term accommodation is now called short term respite, ndis.gov.au · NDIS Pricing Schedule 2026-27.
Frequently asked questions
Is respite the same as STA?
On the NDIS, yes, "respite" usually means STA.
Can my carer get the break?
Yes. Giving carers a break is one of the main reasons for STA.
Can I use STA if I'm self-managed?
Yes. We work with self-managed, plan-managed and NDIA-managed participants.
Make a referral or ask a question
Call 0412 306 722 or email admin@equalaccesscare.com.au. We'll call you back the same day. Prefer a form? Use the online referral form.