Caring for a person living with a disability requires ongoing time, attention, and effort. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) recognises that even the most committed carers need regular breaks to maintain their own health and capacity to provide support. To address this, the NDIS includes Short Term Respite (STR) as part of its supports for eligible participants and their informal carers.

In October 2025, the NDIS Short Term Respite Guideline was updated to make the policy clearer, fairer, and more flexible for participants. The updates clarify what is covered, how decisions are made, and what evidence may be needed when requesting this type of support. This document outlines the key information from the updated guideline to help participants and carers understand how NDIS Short Term Respite (STR) works.

What Is NDIS Short Term Respite (STR)?

NDIS Short Term Respite (STR) is temporary care provided to participants for a limited period, allowing both the participant and their informal supports or carers to take a break. It ensures the participant continues to receive appropriate support while giving carers time to rest, manage personal matters, or prevent burnout.

Under the 2025 guideline:

• NDIS Short Term Respite can be funded for up to 14 consecutive days at a time, and up to 28 days in a 12-month period.

• Participants can use the respite in one block or divide it into shorter periods, such as weekend breaks or a few days each month.

Respite may include:

• Temporary accommodation in an accessible and safe environment such as a supported facility, hotel, or short-stay cottage.
• Assistance with daily living activities, including personal care, meal preparation, and mobility.
• Support for community or social participation, helping the participant remain engaged and active during the respite period.
• Overnight support, if required, from a qualified support worker.

The NDIS views Short Term Respite as a disability-related support designed to maintain stable care arrangements and promote sustainability for both participants and carers. It is not classified as a holiday or leisure activity, and funding is based on disability support needs rather than recreation.

How the NDIS Decides on Short Term Respite (STR)

The NDIS applies the “reasonable and necessary” criteria to determine whether Short Term Respite should be funded. Each request is reviewed individually, considering the participant’s support needs and the role of their carers.

Key factors assessed by NDIS planners include:

• Level of daily care provided by family members or informal supports.
• Risk of carer fatigue or inability to continue care, particularly if the carer’s health or wellbeing is affected.
• Impact of respite on the participant’s wellbeing, independence, and social participation.
• Cost-effectiveness of the proposed respite option compared to alternative supports.
• Evidence provided, such as medical or allied health reports, care plans, or behavioural support assessments, that show the need for respite.

Providing clear and detailed documentation helps planners understand how respite will contribute to the participant’s goals and overall stability of care. The stronger the evidence, the higher the likelihood that respite funding will be approved.

How to Access NDIS Short Term Respite (STR)

Participants or their carers can discuss Short Term Respite during their plan check-in or with their my NDIS contact. If a plan does not currently include respite funding or the participant’s situation has changed, they can request a plan reassessment.

In most cases, Short Term Respite is funded under the Core Supports budget, which provides flexibility in how supports are used. This means participants can choose between:

• In-home respite, where a support worker temporarily assists at home.
• Short stays in accessible facilities or hotels.
• Weekend or short breaks scheduled throughout the year.

When planning respite, participants should consider:

• The frequency and duration of the breaks.
• The level of assistance required during respite.
• Whether the provider is registered with the NDIS and meets quality and safety standards.

Working with a registered provider ensures the service complies with NDIS requirements, especially regarding staffing, accommodation safety, and participant support plans.

What the NDIS Does Not Fund Under Short Term Respite (STR)

NDIS Short Term Respite covers only disability-related supports. It does not cover general living or recreational expenses.

The following items are not funded under respite:

• Holidays or leisure travel, such as tours, flights, or cruises.
• Meals that are not part of an approved accommodation rate.
• Entertainment costs, such as tickets, entry fees, or recreational activities.
• Transport, unless it is already included under a separate transport allowance in the plan.

Participants should plan their respite use carefully to stay within their approved funding and ensure all expenses meet NDIS guidelines. Providers can assist with cost breakdowns and documentation to prevent overspending or ineligible claims.

If You Disagree with a NDIS Decision

If a request for Short Term Respite (STR) is denied, the NDIS will provide a written explanation detailing the reason for the decision. Participants have three months to request an internal review.

During the review process, participants can:

• Submit additional information or updated evidence to support their claim.
• Seek help from a support coordinator or advocate to prepare documentation.
• Request clarification from their planner about what type of evidence would strengthen their case.

If the internal review still results in a denial, participants may appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), following standard NDIS procedures.

Key Takeaways

The NDIS Short Term Respite (STR) program is designed to provide structured and temporary support that benefits both participants and their informal carers. It offers flexibility, promotes sustainable care arrangements, and ensures continuity of support when carers need rest or personal time.

The 2025 guideline update emphasises clearer decision-making processes, flexibility in scheduling respite, and stronger evidence requirements for funding approval. Understanding these updates can help participants plan their supports more effectively and make informed decisions during plan meetings.

For detailed information about NDIS Short Term Respite or to check eligibility, visit the official NDIS website.

To explore local respite options or seek planning assistance, you may also refer to https://everestcare.com.au for further resources and updates.