NDIS Respite in a Group Setting provides fun, supported overnight experiences, helping participants build confidence, friendships and independence, all whilst creating unforgettable memories.
From 1 July 2026, the NDIA changed how Short Term Accommodation (STA) and Respite in a Group Setting are funded. Food and activities are no longer included in NDIS-funded Respite supports. What has changed is the way bookings are quoted and invoiced, and a small family contribution towards food and activities. More detail is below, and our team is always happy to talk it through.
Our commitment to safe, inclusive and supported overnight care remains the same. Participants will continue to enjoy engaging group experiences that build confidence, social connections and everyday life skills. Every booking is led by the same dedicated Respite Lead (previously called Camp Captain) your family knows and trusts.
Food and activities are no longer funded under STA and are now considered everyday living expenses. For just $20 per day, What Ability will organise all meals and activities during your respite. You’ll receive two invoices: one for your NDIS-funded supports and another for food and activities.
No pressure, no commitment, just a conversation.
At What Ability, we believe overnight stays should feel exciting, supported and meaningful, not overwhelming.
Through our Short Term Accommodation, participants can experience:
Short Term Accommodation (STA) is an NDIS-funded support that gives participants time away from home while receiving the support they need.
At What Ability, we deliver STA through Respite in a Group Setting. Participants receive 1:1 support while enjoying a themed overnight experience alongside peers, with shared activities, meals and community outings.
Each booking is built around connection, confidence and independence, with a dedicated Respite Lead overseeing the group experience and supporting families throughout the stay.
What Respite Group Setting typically includes:
The NDIA changed the way Short Term Accommodation is priced and invoiced. We have kept it as simple and transparent as possible for families.
Accommodation, support worker time, overnight support and transport are claimed from your NDIS plan as itemised line items. This is covered by your STA funding.
Food and activities are no longer funded under STA and are now considered everyday living expenses. For just $20 per day, What Ability will organise all meals and activities during your respite. You'll receive two invoices: one for your NDIS-funded supports and another for food and activities.
You receive one invoice for your NDIS supports and a separate invoice for the food and activities contribution. This does not mean more of your NDIS funding is used for the same stay.
We require your written approval of the updated quote before your stay begins. If you are plan managed, please check with your plan manager so they can approve the updated funding arrangements. If cost is a barrier for your family, talk to us and we will try to find a way to help.
Respite in a Group Setting is about more than time away from home. It is about creating genuine rest for carers and meaningful growth for participants with likeminded peers.
Through our Respite in a Group Settings, families can experience:
The right support at the right time, built around your goals, your routines and your interests.
Planning, shopping and preparing nutritious meals during the stay.
Bathing, grooming and daily hygiene with dignity.
Medication prompts and health management support.
Themed program of activities and community outings.
Getting out, social outings and local experiences.
Overnight and active support where it's part of the plan.
Independence goals worked on across the stay.
Progress notes, daily check-ins and plan alignment.
Most providers offer respite. We create experiences participants can’t wait to return to.
Filter by theme, age group and state to find the right setting. Dates run from August through December 2026 across NSW, QLD, WA and VIC.
Complete our form in about 5 minutes to help us connect you with the right local support team.
Get to know how our STA works, confirm eligibility, then lock in a time for your free Onboarding call. This call can take up to 30 minutes.
Together we’ll create a support plan around your goals, and interests. We'll look at upcoming dates to find likeminded participants and interests that suit you!
We create a clear, agreed plan for your home and support team. Nothing moves forward without your approval.
Your Area Manager will organise a Community Access booking (where possible) to connect and build rapport with your Support Workers prior to your respite.
Once we’ve confirmed group suitability, dates, location, and activities, your adventure begins!
If you think our overnight Respite in a Group Setting could be the right fit for your family, we’d love to talk. Our team is here to answer all your questions so you can decide what feels right. Follow our Enquiry Form below, or call 1300 358 714, we’re always happy to help.
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From 1 July 2026 the NDIS introduced new pricing arrangements for Short Term Accommodation. Previously STA was one all-inclusive daily rate.
Now accommodation, support worker time and overnight support are claimed as separate line items, and food and activities are no longer funded through STA. These apply to all providers, not just What Ability.
The NDIS has unbundled Short Term Accommodation (STA) charges. We have moved to terminology that reflects that change. Our STA services are now known as Respite in a Group and Individual setting. The themed experience you know continues.
Respite in a Group Setting provides 1:1 support away from home, alongside a group of peers. Bookings focus on building social skills, confidence and independence through shared activities and experiences.
Respite in an Individual Setting offers a more tailored experience, with consistent support built around the participant’s individual needs, routines and goals. It can also support participants who are building independence or preparing for a future transition to Supported Independent Living (SIL).
Yes, Short Term Accommodation (STA) should be in your NDIS plan to access this support. If you are unsure whether STA is currently funded, our team can help you check.
A Respite Lead is present throughout each group stay to provide an added layer of support, oversight and safeguarding. They promote participant safety and wellbeing, coordinate supports across the service, guide and supervise support workers, manage emerging risks and incidents, oversee medication assistance, and keep the environment safe and responsive to each participant’s needs. This role was previously known as the Camp Captain.
