If you’re a participant of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) living in Tarneit, Victoria, you might be exploring options like Short Term Accommodation (STA) to support your needs, take a break from routine care, or give your informal carer some respite. Choosing the right short term accommodation under your NDIS plan is an important decision — one that can profoundly improve quality of life, independence and well-being.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain everything you need to know about NDIS Short Term Accommodation in Tarneit, including what STA is, how it works under the NDIS, who’s eligible, the benefits, how Fair & Care can support you, and answers to key FAQs.

What is Short Term Accommodation (STA) under NDIS?

Short Term Accommodation (formerly known as STA and now often referred to as Short Term Respite) is an NDIS-funded support that enables an NDIS participant to stay away from their regular home environment for a short period while receiving appropriate care and support.

An STA stay is more than just a holiday — it includes accommodation plus disability-related supports tailored to your needs, such as:

• Personal care

• Assistance with daily tasks

• Supervision and support from trained staff

• Meals and activities agreed with you

This support is often used when family carers or informal supports need a break, or when participants want a temporary change of environment.

Typically, STA can be funded for up to 28 days per year in your NDIS plan, with most stays being up to 14 continuous days at a time.

Why STA Matters for NDIS Participants

There are many reasons why STA plays a key role within your NDIS support plan:

✔ Respite for Carers

STA gives family or informal supports a much-needed break while ensuring the participant continues to receive quality care.

✔ A Chance for Growth and Social Engagement

While STA isn’t specifically designed for skill building, it can help participants experience new environments, meet new people and try activities that boost confidence and participation.

✔ Enhancing Independence in a Safe Setting

Some participants use STA as a stepping stone — testing their independence before pursuing longer-term living arrangements or supported independent living (SIL).

✔ Maintaining Stability at Home

If your regular care arrangements temporarily change due to unforeseen circumstances, STA ensures your support needs continue without putting strain on your family.

How STA Funding Works in Your NDIS Plan

If you have funding for STA in your NDIS plan, this money usually comes from the Core Supports budget — meaning it’s flexible and can sometimes be used for other core services if agreed with your planner or support coordinator.

Importantly:

• STA funding must be used in line with NDIS guidelines.

• You should use STA funding for disability-related supports and associated accommodation costs.

• NDIS does not fund holiday trips or entertainment as part of STA — only supports that are reasonable, necessary, and linked to your disability.

Each plan is individual — so discuss STA with your NDIS Planner or Support Coordinator to ensure it reflects your goals and needs.

Short Term Accommodation Options in Tarneit

There are a number of excellent providers offering short term accommodation and related supports in and around Tarneit, including:

Local NDIS Accommodation & Support Providers

Here are some organisations in and around Tarneit that deliver STA, respite, or disability support services:

• Care Circle Victoria – NDIS support including short term accommodation, respite, and disability services.

• Assist and Care Providers – Offers STA and respite care with personalised support.

• Caring Hearts Home Care – Provides STA and related personal care services for various support needs.

• Beyond Capacities – Support tailored to each participant’s goals and needs.

• Hope & Care Network – NDIS disability services with a focus on holistic care.

• Solace Homecare – Comprehensive disability support including respite and community participation.

• Matrix Healthcare – Offers disability support, including accommodation services.

• West Side Care – Local provider with disability care services.

• Adaptive Care Pty Ltd – Person-centred disability support services.

• C. Home and Community Care – Offers respite care and disability support.

• VICNA NDIS Disability Support Services – Disability support including daily living assistance.

Each provider delivers STA differently based on staff availability, facilities, and participant needs. Speak directly with them to understand what they offer, where stays are located, and how they support accommodation services.

About Fair & Care – Your Trusted NDIS Partner in Tarneit

At Fair & Care, we specialise in person-centred NDIS support services tailored to your individual goals. Located in Tarneit, we focus on delivering high-quality supports with professionalism, compassion and respect.

Our NDIS services include:

• Personal care support

• Community participation

• Daily living skills

• Transport assistance

• Positive behaviour support

• Respite and Short Term Accommodation (STA)
  (Alongside allied health and specialist care options)

Whether you’re planning a short stay to maintain routines, giving carers some respite, or wanting a change of scene with structured assistance — our team is here to support you every step of the way.

We bring a genuine focus on dignity, respect, choice and independence — ensuring you feel comfortable, supported and safe during your STA experience.

Who Can Access Short Term Accommodation?

Short Term Accommodation is most suitable for:

✔ Participants who live with informal carers

This includes people living with family, friends or other unpaid supports.

✔ Participants whose carers provide significant daily care

If your primary informal supports provide disability-related assistance for more than 6 hours a day, STA can help when they need rest.

✔ Participants with funding allocated in their NDIS plan

Your plan must include STA (or Short Term Respite) funding in the Core Supports category.

Children may qualify for STA funding in some cases — especially if their disability support needs are greater than typical for their age and it helps families maintain care.

What Does STA Usually Include?

An STA service may include (depending on your needs and plan):

• Accommodation in a safe and accessible setting

• Personal care and assistance with daily tasks

• Meals and food support

• 24/7 or scheduled respite support

• Social activities and community participation

It’s important to note STA is not funded for:

• Non-disability-related holiday travel

• Tickets or entry to entertainment events unrelated to disability supports

• Accommodation that’s not reasonable or necessary based on your plan goals

These rules help ensure funding is used appropriately within the NDIS framework.

What to Consider When Choosing STA

Before you book STA, consider the following:

1. Accessibility Features

Make sure the accommodation has the accessibility features you need — like ramps, accessible bathrooms, adjustable beds, hoists, or other assistive equipment.

2. Location

Choose a location that works for you — whether close to home or in a supportive community environment where you can engage in activities.

3. Level of Support

Discuss your daily support needs with the provider — staff ratios, clinical support availability, and how personal care is managed.

4. Compatibility

You should feel comfortable and welcome where you stay. Compatibility with staff and other participants can make a big difference in your experience.

5. Clear Budget Planning

Know how your STA funding is allocated in your plan and whether it covers everything you need — including accommodation, staff support and associated services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between STA and Short Term Respite?

NDIS now commonly refers to STA as Short Term Respite to better reflect the purpose of the support. The services and funding are essentially the same — focusing on disability supports and accommodation away from your usual home.

2. How many days of STA can I use?

Most participants can access up to 28 days of STA per year, usually capped at about 14 days per stay.

3. Do I have to live in Tarneit to use STA there?

No — STA can often be used anywhere within your home state or territory, as long as it’s planned into your NDIS supports and meets the NDIS criteria.

4. Can I pick any provider?

Yes. You have choice and control in selecting your STA provider, but they must be registered with NDIS and meet your needs. Be sure to compare services, staff experience, and facilities.

5. Does STA fund holidays?

No. STA must be used for disability supports and accommodation as reasonable and necessary under your plan, not for general travel or holiday experiences.

6. Can STA funding be used for other supports?

If STA funding is in your Core supports budget and is flexible, some of the money may be able to support other core service needs — but talk with your NDIA planner to confirm this.

7. How do I book STA with Fair & Care?

Contact Fair & Care directly via our website or phone — we conduct a free consultation, assess your needs, and help you plan your STA stay in line with your NDIS goals.

Final Thoughts

Short Term Accommodation under the NDIS is a valuable support that enables you to rest, recharge, connect socially, and ensure your care needs are met when your usual carers need a break. Choosing the right STA service — like those offered with care and compassion here at Fair & Care — means making decisions that support your comfort, dignity and independence.

Whether you’re new to STA or seeking updated information to make an informed choice, we hope this guide gives you the clarity and confidence to move forward with your NDIS accommodation goals.

If you’d like personalised support or to learn more, reach out to Fair & Care today — we’re here to help you thrive throughout your NDIS journey.