5 Ways STA Can Provide Relief and Opportunity for Participants

5 Ways STA Can Provide Relief and Opportunity for Participants

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds a wide range of supports to help people with disability live fulfilling and independent lives. One of these supports is Short Term Accommodation (STA) — sometimes called respite care.

STA provides more than just a break from the usual routine. It offers opportunities for participants to grow, carers to recharge, and families to find peace of mind. In this article, we’ll explore five key ways STA provides relief and opportunity.

What is STA in the NDIS?

Short Term Accommodation (STA) is temporary support that allows participants to stay somewhere different from their usual home for a short period of time.

It generally includes:

• Accommodation

• Personal care and support

• Meals

• Social or skill-building activities

STA is flexible, with funding typically allowing up to 28 days per year, which can be used in a block or spread out (for example, weekend stays).

1. Relief for Carers and Families

Caring for a loved one is rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. STA provides carers and families with valuable time to:

• Rest and recharge

• Attend to other responsibilities

• Focus on their own wellbeing

Knowing that their loved one is safe and supported gives carers the peace of mind they need to continue providing long-term care.

2. Opportunities for Skill-Building

STA isn’t just about taking a break — it’s also about growth. Many STA programs include activities that help participants build practical life skills, such as:

• Cooking or meal preparation

• Money management

• Social communication and teamwork

• Community access and travel training

These skills build confidence and can be transferred back into everyday life.

3. Social Connection and Fun

Isolation can be a major challenge for people with disability. STA offers participants the chance to:

• Meet new people

• Enjoy recreational activities

• Join group outings or events

• Build friendships in a safe and supported environment

For many participants, STA is a chance to enjoy social opportunities that might not be possible at home.

4. A Change of Environment

Sometimes, a change of scenery is just as important as the supports themselves. STA gives participants the chance to experience:

• A different environment

• New routines and settings

• Increased independence in a supported space

This change can boost resilience, reduce stress, and provide a fresh perspective.

5. Pathways to Greater Independence

For some participants, STA can be a stepping stone to other living arrangements, such as Supported Independent Living (SIL). By practising independence in a short-term, supported setting, participants can:

• Test their readiness for new housing options

• Build confidence in daily routines

• Learn how to manage with less direct family involvement

This makes STA not only a break but also an important part of long-term independence planning.

STA with ProCare Solution

At ProCare Solution, we see STA as an opportunity for both relief and growth. Our STA services include:

• Safe, comfortable accommodation

• Caring staff who provide tailored daily support

• Engaging activities that build skills and confidence

• A focus on both participant independence and carer wellbeing

Whether it’s a weekend away or a longer stay, we make sure STA feels like a positive, empowering experience.

Final Thoughts: The Value of STA

STA is more than just respite — it’s a support that creates balance, opportunity, and relief. For carers, it provides rest and reassurance. For participants, it’s a chance to learn, connect, and take steps toward greater independence.

If you think STA could benefit you or your family, talk about it at your next NDIS planning meeting.

At ProCare Solution, we’re here to help you explore your options and make the most of your STA funding.

Contact us via our contact page to learn more about our STA services.

Key Summary

• STA (Short Term Accommodation) is temporary support funded under the NDIS.

• It provides relief for carers and opportunities for participants.

• Benefits include skill-building, social connection, new environments, and independence.

• Funding usually allows up to 28 days per year.

• ProCare Solution delivers STA tailored to participant and family needs.