Understanding NDIS Budgets – STR

Understanding NDIS Budgets – STR

Understanding the NDIS Budget – Core Supports: Short Term Respite (STR)

Support With Confidence | Your NDIS Learning Program

STR is more than a break — it’s structured support that builds skills, confidence, and independence.

Many support workers and families misunderstand Short Term Accommodation (STR), thinking of it as simply “time away” or a mini holiday. In reality, STR is a purposeful support that provides skill development, routine, and rest — for both participants and carers.

Yet confusion often arises around what STR covers, how to apply line items, and how to invoice correctly. Mistakes here can lead to overcharging, funding disputes, or underpaid supports.

This program helps you solve that problem.
You’ll learn how to deliver STR that meets NDIS requirements, supports participant goals, and is invoiced clearly, fairly, and professionally.

What You’ll Learn

You’ll explore the key components of STR and the responsibilities that come with it — including how to:

• Understand what STR is designed for — temporary, goal-aligned support that builds independence, not just respite.
• Use the correct line items for STR, self-care, and high-intensity supports — including how to adjust for day, time, and public holidays.
• Apply ratio-based invoicing (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4) to ensure costs are divided fairly between participants.
• Recognise what can and can’t be invoiced — from accommodation and meals to personal or recreational expenses.
• Support participants through structured daily routines, meal preparation, and skill-building activities.
• Maintain clear records that reflect transparency, consent, and alignment with NDIS rules.
• Apply travel and non-labour cost rules correctly — including fuel, tolls, and parking related to STR activities.

Why It Matters

When STR is delivered and invoiced correctly, everyone benefits:

• Participants build independence, routine, and social confidence.
• Families gain valuable respite, knowing their loved one is safe and supported.
• Support workers protect their professionalism and ensure fair, compliant invoicing.

By understanding the structure behind STR, you can avoid costly errors, maintain trust, and deliver support that meets the NDIS standard of reasonable and necessary.

By the end of this program, you’ll know how to deliver STR that empowers participants, supports families, and meets every professional requirement — with clarity, care, and confidence.

👉 Understanding the NDIS Budget – Core Supports (STR) helps you provide short-term support that delivers long-term outcomes — structured, goal-focused, and ethically invoiced every time.

Learning Time: 18 minutes

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