Respites.com.au offers Short-Term Accommodation/Respite (STA) services funded by the NDIS. It provides support and accommodation when individuals need to temporarily reside away from their usual home environment, allowing their primary caregivers a brief break.
STA can involve staying with others or alone and is typically funded when regular caregivers are unavailable or to facilitate trying new experiences.
Respites.com.au covers the cost of care for up to 14 days at a time and can be granted for a combined period of up to 28 days in a year, depending on eligibility and circumstances.
Accessing STA/Respite through Respites.com.au is seamless with our extensive network of trusted partners and booking organizations across Australia.
We’re dedicated to finding suitable options in every state and territory to cater to your unique needs. With our wide range of choices,
we can assist you in achieving your STA goals and objectives, ensuring you have the trip of a lifetime. Get in touch with Respites.com.au to start planning your stay today.
The NDIS may provide funding for Short-Term Accommodation/Respite, along with additional supports that offer a ‘respite effect,’ aiding your carers in providing ongoing support for you.
The NDIS assesses the potential risk to your and your family’s well-being if they continue supporting you without Short-Term Accommodation. Additionally, they consider how the support from your family and networks affects your independence, comparing it to the independence and opportunities that Short-Term Accommodation may offer.
Short-Term Accommodation (STA) does cover accommodation options. At Respites.com.au, we understand that each participant has unique goals and expectations.
We’ll discuss this with you and, with your consent, communicate your STA preferences with your support coordinator, plan manager, and representatives.
Our model emphasizes choice, control, and ownership for NDIS participants, ensuring that your needs are met while adhering to NDIS Guidelines. Rest assured, we’ll create a value-for-money STA Quote that complements your requirements.
Respites.com.au works with Plan-Managed and Self-Managed NDIS participants.
What costs are covered by the NDIS under STA?
Short-Term Accommodation (STA) encompasses a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience for NDIS participants. These include:
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Personal Care Supports: Dedicated assistance with personal care tasks, tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the participant. This may include support with grooming, hygiene, medication management, and mobility assistance.
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Accommodation: Access to safe, comfortable, and accessible living quarters during the STA period. Accommodations are selected with careful consideration of the participant’s requirements and may vary from private rooms to shared living spaces, depending on preferences and availability.
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Food: Provision of nutritious meals and snacks throughout the duration of the STA. Participants can expect to receive well-balanced and dietary-appropriate meals, catering to any specific dietary restrictions or preferences they may have.
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Activities: Engagement in a variety of activities agreed upon by the NDIS participant and the service provider. These activities are designed to promote social interaction, skill development, recreation, and overall well-being. Participants have the opportunity to explore new interests, hobbies, and experiences, fostering personal growth and enjoyment.
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Provider Service Fees: Coverage of the service fees associated with accessing STA through the NDIS. These fees encompass the costs of staff support, administration, coordination, and overheads necessary for delivering high-quality services.
By encompassing these elements, STA aims to provide participants with a holistic and supportive environment that meets their individual needs while fostering independence, social connection, and overall well-being.
The Respites.com.au STA model represents a groundbreaking approach to Short-Term Accommodation (STA) within the NDIS framework, designed to empower participants with enhanced flexibility and premium experiences while staying within their allocated budgets. This innovative pilot program opens doors to a range of opportunities for individuals, fostering social connections, independence, and personal growth.
At the core of the Respites.com.au STA model is the flexibility it affords participants. Whether they choose to bring their own support worker, rely on informal supports, or opt for independent attendance, the model accommodates diverse needs and preferences.
Respites.com.au collaborates with a network of reputable NDIS support providers across Australia, ensuring that participants receive quality care that aligns with the platform’s values and standards. For those employing their own support workers, transparent communication is key, with costs integrated into quotes and service agreements, streamlining the billing process.
In instances where round-the-clock support may necessitate significant funding, Respites.com.au encourages proactive dialogue among all stakeholders, including Plan Managers, to explore favorable solutions. This may involve separate invoicing for support costs, depending on individual circumstances and agreements.
How is STA funded/Respite and how can funding be used?
Respites.com.au’s STA/Respite model operates within the funding framework of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Funding for Short-Term Accommodation (STA) and Respite services is provided at standard rates determined by the NDIS, which can be referenced in the NDIS Price Guide available on their official website.
Participants can utilize their core budget allocated in their NDIS plan to cover various supports, including STA, tailored to their specific needs and outlined requirements. If a participant has funding allocated within their core budget, it can be directed towards accessing STA services through Respites.com.au.
Typically, funding for STA is provided at a group price, unless individual circumstances necessitate individualized support due to the participant’s disability. In such cases, individualized funding may be considered to accommodate specific needs.
Respites.com.au’s STA/Respite model prioritizes providing comprehensive support to participants during their stay. The model is structured to offer a high level of assistance and care, ensuring participants’ comfort, safety, and overall well-being throughout their respite experience.
Respites.com.au takes the safety and quality of accommodations seriously. We carefully vet all of our partner hotels and accommodations to ensure they meet our stringent standards for accessibility, cleanliness, and safety.
Additionally, we regularly solicit feedback from our clients to continually improve the quality of our offerings.
Absolutely! Respites.com.au is committed to catering to the diverse needs of our clients. During the booking process, you can specify any dietary restrictions or accessibility needs you may have, and we will work with our accommodation partners to ensure your needs are met during your stay.
You are covered for up to 14 days at a time and for a period of up to 28 days within a 1-year period, based on my eligibility and circumstances? *Note that there must be a break of at least one day before commencing a stay within STA.
What is the line item associated with a Respites.com.au STA Quote?
It is 0115. And we suggest that you refer to the NDIS price guide for further reference.
All Respites.com.au STA respite invoices are sent to plan managers or self-managed clients within 24 hours of the completion of the STA service.
No, clients are not limited to choosing accommodation options solely listed on our website. While Respites.com.au has established arrangements and partnerships with various hotel chains across Australia, participants have the flexibility to select accommodation from a broader range of options available on booking.com.
We have established a smooth working relationship with booking.com and are familiar with their terms and cancellation conditions, facilitating a seamless booking process for our clients. This approach allows participants to explore a diverse array of accommodations beyond our direct partnerships, ensuring that they find the option that best suits their preferences, needs, and budget.
At Respites.com.au, our priority is to provide participants with choice, flexibility, and control over their Short-Term Accommodation (STA) experience. Whether they opt for accommodations listed on our website or choose from the extensive range available on booking.com, we are committed to facilitating a rewarding and personalized STA experience for each participant.
There may be out of pocket expenses in some circumstances.
Expenses may occur, where requests, – when combined with the highlighted STA costs, exceed the daily cap allowance or if particular requests do not rest within the advised NDIS guidelines.
Let’s get creative with your goals and experiences! Imagine exploring a variety of exciting activities during your Respites.com.au STA. Some ideas could include:
• Embarking on a horse riding adventure through scenic trails.
• Experiencing the thrill of adventure parks with exhilarating rides and attractions.
• Enjoying a fun-filled day of bowling with family and friends.
• Soaring high above the landscape on a mesmerizing hot air balloon ride.
• Practicing your swing at a driving range for a day of golfing fun.
• Testing your piloting skills in a jet flight simulator for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
• Taking a scenic journey with SkyLine Australia for breathtaking views.
• Swimming alongside dolphins for a magical aquatic adventure.
• Learning new dance moves and grooving to the rhythm in dancing classes.
• Exploring the wonders of the zoo, relaxing at the beach, and having a blast in game rooms. With Respites.com.au, the possibilities are endless, and we’re here to help you turn your dreams into unforgettable experiences!
We recommend booking your STA stay as far in advance as possible to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons. However, we understand that last-minute changes and emergencies may arise, and we strive to accommodate our clients’ needs to the best of our ability, even on 48 hours notice.
Yes, you can cancel or modify your reservation, subject to the cancellation policies of the specific accommodation provider.
We recommend reviewing the cancellation policy at the time of booking to understand any potential fees or restrictions that may apply.
Billing and payment with Respites.com.au are streamlined and convenient.
Rather than processing payments directly through our platform, we send an invoice to your support coordinator or plan manager for the total cost of the STA bookings on the conclusion of your stay.
This ensures a hassle-free experience for our clients and allows for seamless reimbursement through the NDIS funding process.
While Respites.com.au primarily focuses on arranging accommodations, we also offer support services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable STA experience.
This may include assistance with meal planning, activity coordination, and access to support staff as needed.
Our goal is to provide comprehensive support that meets the individual needs of our clients.
If you encounter any issues during your STA stay, we encourage you to reach out to our customer support team for assistance.
We are committed to resolving any issues promptly and ensuring that your experience with Respites.com.au is positive and stress-free. Your satisfaction is our top priority.
As a parent of an NDIS participant, you can book a Respites.com.au STA for your child/children. Short-Term Accommodation may be funded by the NDIS for children if their circumstances meet the reasonable and necessary criteria.
Eligibility will depend on your child or children’s needs, considering the needs of the family and carers, and taking into account the whole family situation. *Specific funding for STA/Respite may need to be written in your child’s plan for STA/respite to be considered. It is recommended to discuss eligibility with your LAC and/or NDIS Planner or the NDIS directly.
The Respites.com.au quote encompasses various components to ensure a comprehensive Short-Term Accommodation (STA) experience tailored to the needs of NDIS participants:
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STA Accommodation: Costs associated with securing suitable accommodation during the participant’s stay. This includes considerations for accessibility, comfort, and safety, ensuring a welcoming environment throughout the duration of the STA.
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Meals: Provision of nutritious and satisfying meals throughout the STA period. Dietary preferences, restrictions, and any special requirements are taken into account to ensure participants receive meals that meet their individual needs.
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Activities: Funding for engaging and enriching activities tailored to the interests and preferences of the participant. These activities aim to promote social interaction, skill development, recreation, and overall well-being, enhancing the overall STA experience.
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Service Fees: Fees associated with the provision of Respites.com.au’s services, covering administrative costs, coordination, and support staff expenses necessary to facilitate a seamless STA experience.
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Additional Assistance: Agreed-upon support for transfers and specialized equipment, if required by the participant. Respites.com.au works closely with participants to identify any additional needs and ensure they are adequately addressed within the quote.
Respites.com.au encourages participants to engage with various stakeholders to ensure that their Short-Term Accommodation (STA) experience is both valuable and tailored to their individual needs:
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Support Coordinator: Support coordinators play a pivotal role in assisting participants with navigating the NDIS system and accessing appropriate supports and services. They can provide guidance on how to maximize the benefits of an STA experience and ensure that it aligns with the participant’s goals and aspirations.
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Local Area Coordinator (LAC): LACs are available to support participants in understanding and implementing their NDIS plans. They can offer insights into available STA options, assist with plan management, and provide advocacy on behalf of the participant, ensuring that their needs are effectively addressed.
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Plan Manager: Plan managers facilitate the financial aspects of NDIS plans, including budget management and payment processing. Participants can consult with their plan manager to discuss funding allocation for STA and ensure that it is utilized effectively to meet their needs and preferences.
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Planner: Planners are responsible for developing participants’ NDIS plans and determining their eligibility for specific supports and services. Participants can engage with their planner to discuss the suitability of STA within their plan and explore alternative options if necessary.
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Family Members: Family members often provide valuable insights and support to participants in decision-making processes. Their input can help participants assess the suitability of an STA experience and ensure that it aligns with their preferences and goals.
Respites.com.au emphasizes collaboration and transparency throughout the STA process. The Service Agreement is developed only after the STA quote has been reviewed and approved by the participant and their representatives, ensuring that the chosen STA option meets their expectations and requirements.
Booking a Short-Term Accommodation (STA) with Respites.com.au involves a streamlined process to ensure a seamless and personalized experience for participants. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Read STA FAQs: Participants are encouraged to review the STA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our website before proceeding with the booking process.
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Complete Booking Enquiry Form: Participants can fill out the STA Booking Enquiry Form available on our website to initiate the booking process.
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Contact from Intake & Assessment Coordinators: Within 24 hours of receiving the enquiry, our STA Intake & Assessment Coordinators will make contact with the participant by phone to gather necessary information.
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Quote Preparation and Approval: Based on the information provided, our intake staff will prepare a quote and send it to the participant for initial approval. The quote will also be shared with the support coordinator/plan manager for review.
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Plan Manager Approval: Once the participant approves the quote, support coordinators are encouraged to seek Plan Manager approval, as Respites.com.au prefers to proceed with the STA after receiving written approval from the Plan Manager.
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Service Agreement Signing: After Plan Manager or participants approval is obtained, the Service Agreement will be sent to the participant (or their elected representative) for signing. A copy of the agreement will also be provided to the support coordinator and plan manager.
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Arrangements and Confirmation: Upon signing the Service Agreement, our intake Coordinator will proceed with all arrangements and send the participant confirmation of their itinerary, including check-in details and guidance on using pre-paid STA Cards.
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Client Experience Support: A Client Experience Coordinator will be assigned to the participant and will remain available throughout their STA experience, providing assistance and support as needed.
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STA Commencement: On the scheduled STA commencement date, the participant will commence STA services, enjoying their chosen accommodations and activities.
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On-Call Assistance: Respites.com.au provides an on-call service for participants to access assistance during their STA, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.
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Invoicing and Feedback: An invoice will be sent after the completion of the STA to the plan manager or participant/representative if self-managed. Additionally, our Quality and Compliance Officer will contact the participant for feedback a few days after their STA to ensure satisfaction and address any concerns.
By following this structured process, Respites.com.au aims to provide participants with a hassle-free and enjoyable STA experience from start to finish.
Within our STA model, we provide up to $200 per day for a single participant – for food and activities and up to $400 if attending with a support person, whether informal or paid.
Here is a huge list of activities for you to consider on your stay: Sure, here’s the revised list without alcohol-related activities:
