Respite

Under the NDIS, Short-Term Accommodation (STA), also known as respite, provides temporary accommodation and support for people with disability for up to 14 days at a time.

You may be eligible for short-term accommodation funding if you:  

• live with your primary informal supports, like family, friends or a carer or get daily drop-in support
• get disability-related support from your primary informal support for more than 6 hours a day.

You can use this funding flexibly. For example, you can use it for a block of up to 14 days at a time, or you can use it for one weekend per month.

STA gives participants the opportunity to enjoy a change of environment, build independence, meet new people, try new activities and develop new skills, while providing carers and families with a break from their usual caring arrangements.

genU's STA services provide:

• 24/7 specialised staff support
• A fully accessible environment
• Flexible stay options, including overnight, short stays and extended stays (up to 14 days)
• Nutritious and balanced meals throughout the day
• Opportunities to participate in activities and community outings.

Short-Term Accommodation (STA) is funded through the Core Supports - Assistance with Daily Life budget in an NDIS plan.

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has changed the way STA is funded. These changes apply to all STA providers from 1 July 2026, including genU's Melaluka Respite and Carrol House.

Under the new funding arrangements:

• Accommodation and support funding are claimed separately.
• Support costs are based on the number of hours of support provided, the time of day and day of the week supports are delivered, and the level and intensity of support required.
• The accommodation rate varies according to a participant's overnight support needs, and is split between participant accommodation and support worker accommodation
• The NDIS can contribute a maximum of $325.70 per day towards accommodation costs for a participant and their support workers.
• The cost of food, utilities and activities is no longer covered by NDIS STA funding.
• Participants will be required to make a co-contribution to cover food and utilities costs – this fee will be included in your quote.
• Activity costs are charged separately based on the activities discussed and agreed to prior to the stay.

Before confirming a booking, we will provide a detailed quote outlining NDIS-funded supports, accommodation costs and any participant contributions.

Depending on your support needs and funding arrangements, you may be required to contribute towards some costs associated with your stay.

This may include:

• A flat rate daily contribution towards food and utilities
• Activity costs based on the activities you decide to participate in
• Any accommodation costs that exceed the amount funded by the NDIS.

We will always provide a clear quote before confirming a booking so you can make an informed decision.

We understand the important role that short-term accommodation plays in supporting participants and providing carers and families with a break from their usual caring arrangements. 

If you are interested in booking a stay at Melaluka Respite or Carrol House, our team is here to help.

Before confirming your booking, we will:

• Explain the available options
• Provide a clear quote
• Outline any participant contributions or out-of-pocket expenses
• Answer any questions you may have.

To discuss a future stay, contact our team on 1300 558 368 or email connect@genu.org.au.

Our team is committed to helping participants, families, carers and support coordinators understand STA funding and make informed decisions about respite options.

To learn more about STA at Melaluka Respite or Carrol House, contact us on 1300 558 368 or email connect@genu.org.au.