Caring for a loved one with disability is an act of deep commitment, compassion, and love. But even the most devoted carers need time to rest and recharge. That’s where respite care comes in. Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), respite care—also known as short-term accommodation—can be funded to give carers a break while ensuring participants continue to receive quality support.
At APTOS, we believe that supporting carers is just as important as supporting participants. This guide explains what respite care is, how it works under the NDIS, who is eligible, and how APTOS can help make it a smooth, empowering experience.
What Is Respite Care?
Respite care provides temporary support for a person with disability, giving their usual carer a break from their regular duties. It can take place in the participant’s home, a specialised respite facility, or another safe setting.
Respite care is not just about “time off” for carers—it’s about:
- Preventing burnout and fatigue
- Supporting mental and physical wellbeing
- Maintaining healthy family relationships
- Giving participants new experiences and opportunities to build independence
NDIS and Short-Term Accommodation (STA)
Under the NDIS, respite care is typically funded as Short-Term Accommodation (STA) under the Core Supports budget. This includes:
- Up to 14 days at a time (can be longer in some circumstances)
- Support staff to assist with daily needs
- Meals, personal care, and activities
- Overnight care if required
STA is more than just a place to stay—it’s an opportunity for participants to try new routines, build social skills, and experience a change of environment.
Who Can Access Respite Care?
Any NDIS participant may be eligible for respite care if it meets the “reasonable and necessary” criteria, meaning:
- The care directly relates to the person’s disability
- It supports both the participant’s and carer’s wellbeing
- It provides value for money compared to other supports
Respite is especially important for:
- Parents or guardians of children with high care needs
- Spouses or partners who are full-time carers
- Ageing parents caring for adult children
- Carers experiencing illness, stress, or exhaustion
Types of Respite Care Available
1. In-Home Respite
A support worker comes to your home to take over care duties while the carer rests, goes to appointments, or takes a short break.
2. Centre-Based Respite
Participants attend a community or day program facility where they can engage in activities and receive support in a social setting.
3. Short-Term Accommodation (STA)
Participants stay at a dedicated respite facility or supported home, either alone or with others, for a few nights or up to a couple of weeks.
4. Emergency or Crisis Respite
Urgent care provided when a carer is unexpectedly unable to continue support (e.g. due to illness or accident).
Benefits for Participants and Carers
For Carers:
- Reduces physical and emotional stress
- Supports long-term caregiving sustainability
- Allows time for personal health and wellbeing
- Offers reassurance that their loved one is safe and supported
For Participants:
- Encourages independence from usual caregivers
- Builds confidence in new environments
- Supports social engagement and skill development
- Creates opportunities for fun and meaningful activities
How to Access Respite Through the NDIS
Step 1: Identify the Need
Discuss with your support coordinator or planner how respite can support both the participant’s and carer’s wellbeing. Be clear about the challenges faced by the carer.
Step 2: Include It in the NDIS Plan
Request Short-Term Accommodation (STA) funding under Core Supports during your NDIS planning or review meeting. Include:
- A written statement from the carer
- GP or allied health reports outlining carer stress or medical needs
- Functional assessments showing the participant’s support requirements
Step 3: Choose a Respite Provider
Once approved, you can book respite through a registered provider. At APTOS, we work with trusted respite services and can coordinate bookings, ensure the environment is safe and appropriate, and align the experience with the participant’s goals and preferences.
Step 4: Monitor and Review
Use your respite time to assess what works. Your coordinator can help evaluate the experience and recommend changes for future respite needs.
Tips for a Positive Respite Experience
- Plan ahead: Book respite early, especially during school holidays or busy seasons
- Communicate needs: Share the participant’s routines, preferences, and care requirements with the provider
- Start small: Consider trial visits or shorter stays to build confidence
- Reflect together: After respite, talk with the participant about what they enjoyed or found challenging
How APTOS Supports Respite Care
At APTOS, we understand that each family’s needs are unique. Our support coordination team helps:
- Advocate for respite funding in NDIS plans
- Prepare documentation and statements
- Connect with culturally appropriate, high-quality providers
- Coordinate bookings and transport if needed
- Support participants before, during, and after their respite stay
Our compassionate approach ensures that respite feels safe, supportive, and empowering for both participants and carers.
Final Thoughts
Respite care is not a luxury—it’s a vital support that sustains families and carers. When carers are well-rested and supported, participants benefit too. Whether it’s a few hours of in-home support or a week away in STA, respite creates space for rest, recovery, and renewal.
Need help organising respite through your NDIS plan? Contact APTOS today—we’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.
