NDIS Short Term Accommodation (STA) & Respite Care for Carers: iKare’s 5-Year Proven Approach
- Amanda Scott
- Aug 5
- 4 min read
A Break That Changes Lives: Why STA Matters for Carers and Participants
Caring for a loved one is a full-time commitment. While it can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be physically and emotionally exhausting.
That’s where NDIS-funded Short Term Accommodation (STA), often called respite care, becomes life-changing.
STA gives participants the chance to stay in a supportive environment away from home while their carers take a well-deserved break. But more than that, it’s a powerful tool for building independence, learning new skills, and connecting with the community.
At iKare Support Services, we’ve been delivering STA for over five years, helping both carers and participants achieve their goals, every single time.
What is Short Term Accommodation (STA) Under the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) defines STA as temporary supported accommodation, funded for up to 28 days per year.
It can be used in:
Weekend getaways
Week-long breaks
Emergency situations
Unlike long-term housing supports such as Supported Independent Living (SIL), STA is flexible and short-term, making it perfect for:
Carer respite
Building participant independence
Trying out different living environments
Why Respite Care is Essential for Carers
Without breaks, carers face a high risk of burnout, which can impact their health, relationships, and ability to continue caring effectively.
Benefits for carers:
Time to rest and recharge
Ability to focus on personal health, work, or family
Peace of mind knowing their loved one is safe and supported
A stronger and healthier caring relationship
“Taking just a few days for myself meant I came back to my caring role with more patience and energy. iKare made sure my son had an amazing time.” Local Gold Coast carer
The Benefits of STA for Participants
STA isn’t just about giving carers a break, it’s about empowering participants.
How participants benefit:
Skill building – cooking, budgeting, transport training
Social participation – meeting people, joining activities
Confidence – trying new things in a safe environment
Routine maintenance – keeping healthy daily habits
At iKare, every STA stay is goal-focused, meaning activities are linked to your NDIS plan objectives.
Who Can Access STA in the NDIS?
STA is usually funded under Core Supports, Assistance with Daily Living.
You may be eligible if:
You have an NDIS plan
You require support with daily activities
Your carer needs a break for health, work, or family reasons
Tip: Linking your STA request to your plan goals increases the likelihood of funding approval.
How to Request STA in Your NDIS Plan
Talk to Your Support Coordinator; They can check your plan and see if STA is already available.
Gather Supporting Evidence; Therapist letters, GP reports, or carer statements.
Link STA to Your Goals; For example: “I want to improve my independence by staying in a supported environment for one week.”
Choose a Trusted Provider, Like iKare, who can tailor your stay to your needs and location.
Why iKare is the STA Provider of Choice in SE Queensland
We’ve been delivering STA for over five years across Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, and South Brisbane.
Here’s why carers and participants choose us:
Proven Track Record – We have achieved 100% goal completion for STA clients.
Local Expertise – We know the best locations, activities, and resources in your area.
Tailored Stays – No two STA experiences are the same.
Trained Support Workers – Our team is experienced in disability and mental health care.
What an STA Stay with iKare Looks Like
Every STA stay is personalised, but may include:
Comfortable, accessible accommodation
Daily living support (meals, personal care, medication assistance)
Fun and enriching activities (beach visits, local events, community programs)
Opportunities for skill development and independence
Transport to community activities
Emergency STA for Crisis Situations
Sometimes STA is needed urgently, such as:
Unsafe living environments
Hospital discharge without suitable home arrangements
Sudden carer unavailability
At iKare, we have a rapid response STA service for such situations, ensuring no participant is left unsupported.
STA in Gold Coast, Tweed Heads & South Brisbane
We offer STA in beautiful, well-connected locations:
Gold Coast – Coastal, vibrant, and full of activities
Tweed Heads – Relaxed beachside living with strong community ties
South Brisbane – Access to cultural and entertainment events
Funding STA Through Core Supports
STA is funded under Core Supports, Assistance with Daily Living. This category is flexible, so funds can be reallocated from other core areas if needed.
FAQs; STA & Respite Care
Q: How long can I book STA for?
A: NDIS generally funds up to 28 days per year.
Q: Can I choose the location?
A: Yes. iKare works with you to select the best location for your goals.
Q: Is STA just for holidays?
A: No. STA is goal-focused — skill building, community connection, and carer respite.
Book Your STA with iKare
Spots for 2025 STA bookings are filling quickly in Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, and South Brisbane.
Whether you need a planned respite or emergency accommodation, our team is here to make your STA stay safe, enjoyable, and goal-focused.
📞 Call us now to start planning your STA stay.
📍 Serving South East Queensland for over 5 years.
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