Respite – by nature – is rarely something you plan for far in advance.
The need for it often builds over time. The need for a break. A reset. A moment to step back – for you, or for the person you care for.
At EllieB’s we understand that whether you have an intellectual disability, or you care for someone who does, making time for yourself is so important. And the right support can make that possible, without any compromise.
What is NDIS Short Term Respite?
Respite care under the NDIS is designed to give both you and your loved one space – safely, intentionally, and with the right support in place for peace of mind.
The NDIS support formerly known as Short Term Accommodation (STA) was officially renamed Short Term Respite (STR) in October 2025 to better reflect the purpose of the support – to give participants time apart from their usual care arrangements, while their primary informal supports take a short break.
How does it work?
At its core, respite is simple: someone you trust steps in, so you can step back – knowing your loved one is supported, engaged, and cared for.
This support can take different forms, depending on what’s needed:
- Time in a dedicated respite setting, with structured activities
- Support to access the community and try new experiences
- Emergency support, when life doesn’t go to plan
This can include a few hours of care, overnight stays, or short periods away from the usual home environment. And importantly, it’s not just about taking a break.
Respite creates space for your loved one too – to continue to build independence, connect with others, and experience something different from their everyday routine.
Respite doesn’t have to be a last resort.
There’s a misconception that respite is a last resort. In reality, it works best when it’s part of a rhythm – something you plan for, not fall into.
Because caring is constant. And without the chance to rest, reset, or simply have a moment to yourself, it becomes harder to keep showing up in the way you want to.
Respite allows that reset. It gives you time to breathe, to tend to your own life, and to come back with more capacity. And for your loved one, it can be a chance to step into new environments, build confidence, and form connections beyond the familiar.
At EllieB’s, we’re proud to offer Short Term Respite and short stays services at Yarnbrook Cottages in northern Adelaide. Importantly, we host respite and short stays at women’s homes run by women, men’s homes run by men, and mixed homes so there are comfortable spaces for everyone.
How does it fit into your NDIS plan?
To access respite, it needs to be included in your NDIS plan – usually within your core supports budget.
You have choice and control over how you use short term respite.
The NDIS states short term respite is a flexible support, but it must do the following:
- be paid from your core budget
- be used in line with your plan and our guidelines
- be similar to the support you usually receive at home
- not be used to double up on other funded supports in your plan.
It’s best to work with your planner or support coordinator to understand how respite could:
- Support your loved one’s wellbeing
- Help sustain your role as a carer
- Align with your broader goals as a family
From there, it becomes something you can use flexibly – whether that’s a few hours, a regular overnight stay, or support during unexpected moments. In saying that, in general there is a limit of 28 days total per year (14 days at a time) so it’s always best to ask your Support Coordinator what you’re entitled to.
It’s important to know that respite isn’t about stepping away from care … it’s about sustaining it.
Because when the right support is in place, everyone has more room to keep going – with confidence, with energy, and with the reassurance that you’re not doing this alone.
Want to talk to someone?
To speak with a Service Coordinator about our respite and short stays services, call us on (08) 8252 1000 or visit our Short Term Respite page for more information here.
For the most up to date information on Short Term Respite (STR) and to understand what isn’t eligible for STR it’s best to visit the NDIS information page.
