Short Term Respite (STR)

Time Away & Support When You Need It

Caring relationships work best when everyone has the opportunity to recharge.

Short-Term Respite (STR) gives NDIS participants the chance to enjoy a short break from their usual routine while continuing to receive the support they need.

At the same time, family members and carers can take time for themselves, knowing their loved one is receiving quality support in a safe and welcoming environment.

Whether it’s a weekend stay, a few nights away, or regular planned breaks throughout the year, Short-Term Respite can provide meaningful experiences, greater independence, and valuable support for the whole family.

STR Fact Sheet

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What is Short-Term Respite?

Short-Term Respite is an NDIS-funded support that provides temporary accommodation and disability support away from a participant’s usual living arrangement.

The NDIS often refers to this support as Short-Term Accommodation (STA), however many participants, families and service providers continue to use the term respite because it clearly reflects the purpose of the support: giving both participants and carers a short break.

Who is Short-Term Respite For?

STR is commonly used by participants who receive significant support from family members, carers, or other unpaid supports on a daily basis.

It may be suitable if:

You live with family members or carers.
You rely on ongoing support from informal supports each day.
Your carers need regular opportunities to rest and recharge.
You would benefit from developing independence and confidence away from your usual environment.
You are looking to build social connections and participate in new activities.

Short Term Respite includes:

Respite Accommodation

Settings include: Supported respite accommodation, Shared accommodation with other participants, or Individual accommodation

Home stay arrangements

STR can also take place in participant's own home, where appropriate supports are provided while carers take a break

Mobility & transfer

Support with transfers from bed to chair, from wheelchair to vehicle, or from one location to another

Assistance with daily living activities

Cooking & meal preparation, cleaning & home maintenance, budgeting for groceries, and managing expenses.

Personal care support

Bathing & toileting, dressing & grooming, health monitoring & medication management

Community Access

Social outings and recreation, group activities, work, education & peer support

Benefits of Short-Term Respite

For Participants

Short-Term Respite can provide opportunities to:

Build confidence and independence
Learn and practise everyday living skills
Develop social connections
Try new activities and experiences
Enjoy a change of environment and routine
Increase community participation

For Families and Carers

Respite can help carers to:

Take a well-deserved break
Focus on their own health and wellbeing
Attend family, work or personal commitments
Reduce the risk of burnout
Sustain long-term caring relationships

Short Term Respite services

If you are seeking Short Term Respite and would like to learn more, the QLSS team is here to help.

We can discuss your situation, explain how STR works, and help you understand the options available through your NDIS plan.

Contact QLSS today to learn more about STR and housing transition supports.

We were very happy, when we heard this client was going to a QLSS SIL property - QLSS is the benchmark for quality when it comes to SIL.
National Disability Insurance Agency

Fully Registered NDIS Provider - Supported Independent Living

Townsville, Cairns, Mount Isa, Brisbane