Updated on December 9, 2025
The holiday season is a wonderful time for everyone to take a break, recharge, and create new memories. For NDIS participants and their families, Short Term Accommodation (STA) offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a festive getaway while receiving the support you need. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right property for your holiday stay?
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or an extended break during the Christmas period, selecting the right STA property can make all the difference to your experience. Here’s your practical checklist of the top 10 things to consider when booking your holiday accommodation.
1. Comprehensive safety features
Safety should always be your top priority when choosing an STA property. Fire safety requirements typically follow the National Construction Code standards, but it’s worth checking what specific features each property offers.
Look for properties that include:
- Working smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in accessible locations
- Clear emergency exit routes with appropriate signage
- Emergency lighting systems
- Secure premises with appropriate locks and entry systems
- Non-slip flooring, especially in bathrooms and wet areas
- Adequate outdoor lighting for evening accessibility
During your booking enquiry, don’t hesitate to ask about the property’s emergency procedures and how staff are trained to respond to urgent situations. Providers should have clear emergency response protocols and staff with the necessary training to handle urgent situations.
2. Appropriate staff-to-participant ratios
Understanding the staff support available during your stay is important, especially during the busy holiday period when regular routines might change.
STA funding is generally provided at a group price, unless there’s evidence that a participant needs individual support due to their disability. This means you may share supports with other participants unless your NDIS plan specifically allows for one-on-one assistance.
Questions to ask providers:
- What is the typical staff-to-participant ratio during peak holiday periods?
- Will there be overnight staff available?
- Are staff trained in specific support needs relevant to your disability?
- How does the provider handle increased support needs during activities or outings?
A lower staff-to-participant ratio typically allows for more personalized attention, which can be particularly important if you’re trying new holiday activities or exploring unfamiliar surroundings.
3. Engaging holiday activities and programs
The NDIS increasingly prioritizes participant-centered outcomes, stressing that STA services should contribute to broader goals like skill development, social engagement, and community participation. Your holiday stay should be more than just accommodation; it should offer meaningful experiences.
Look for properties that offer:
- Festive seasonal activities and celebrations
- Community outings to local holiday events, markets, or attractions
- Skill-building opportunities that align with your interests
- Social activities that encourage meeting new people
- Flexible activity schedules that accommodate individual preferences
- A good balance between structured activities and downtime
When researching providers, ask about typical activities available during stays and request examples of how they’ve supported participants with similar needs. Some providers may offer special holiday programs during the Christmas and New Year period, so it’s worth enquiring about seasonal options.
4. Accessibility features throughout the property
The physical environment plays a significant role in your comfort and independence during your stay. Safety features such as fire alarms, emergency exits, and secure premises must meet high standards, but accessibility goes beyond just safety.
Essential accessibility features include:
- Wide doorways and hallways for mobility aids
- Step-free access to all common areas
- Accessible bathrooms with grab rails, roll-in showers, and appropriate fixtures
- Adjustable height beds or suitable bed heights for transfers
- Accessible kitchen facilities if you enjoy cooking
- Adequate turning space in all rooms for wheelchairs
- Visual and audible alarm systems for emergencies
If possible, arrange a visit to the property before booking, or request detailed photos and measurements of key areas. This helps ensure the space genuinely meets your mobility and accessibility requirements.
5. Location and local access
A facility close to the participant’s home or family provides convenience and reassurance, especially in emergencies or last-minute changes. However, location considerations extend beyond just distance from home.
Consider these location factors:
- Proximity to local holiday attractions, parks, or beaches
- Access to shopping centres for last-minute holiday needs
- Nearby medical facilities and pharmacies
- Public transport options if you plan to explore independently
- Distance from family members if they plan to visit during your stay
- The neighbourhood’s overall accessibility and pedestrian-friendliness
During the holiday season, some regional areas offer unique experiences like Christmas light displays, summer festivals, or seasonal markets. A well-located property can enhance your holiday experience by providing easy access to these festive activities.
6. Experienced and qualified staff
The quality of support you receive depends heavily on the staff team. When researching providers, inquire about staff qualifications, including training in first aid, manual handling, and disability-specific care.
Key staff qualifications to look for:
- Current first aid and CPR certification
- NDIS worker screening clearance
- Disability-specific training relevant to your support needs
- Experience supporting participants with similar requirements
- Training in medication administration, if needed
- Strategies for supporting challenging behaviours in a positive, non-restrictive manner
Operational guidelines typically include requirements for staff qualifications and training, participant support plans, facility cleanliness and accessibility, emergency procedures, and compliance with relevant legislation. Don’t be shy about asking providers to explain their staff training programs and how they ensure quality support delivery.
7. Clear understanding of what’s included
One of the most confusing aspects of STA funding is understanding what’s covered and what’s not. In a group setting, STA may include meals, activities, and some associated travel, but these extras cannot be included if the participant undertakes STA in an individual setting.
Before booking, clarify:
- Whether meals are included (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
- What activities are covered within the STA price
- Whether bedding, towels, and toiletries are provided
- If any recreational equipment is available (games, entertainment systems, outdoor equipment)
- What personal items you need to bring
- Any additional costs you might incur during your stay
Under NDIS STA guidelines, holidays, cruises, holiday packages, airfares, travel insurance, and holiday activities or tourist travel are considered non-NDIS supports. Your STA funding is for the accommodation and support itself, not for holiday-style entertainment. However, community access and activities that align with your NDIS goals can often be included.
8. Home-like comfort and amenities
Every property under Centre Disability Support’s STA is meticulously chosen to provide a genuine home-like feeling. The holidays are a time to relax and feel comfortable, so the property should feel welcoming rather than institutional.
Look for properties that offer:
- Comfortable communal living spaces where you can socialize or relax
- Private or shared bedroom options based on your preference
- Climate control (especially important during Australian summer holidays)
- Entertainment options like TVs, streaming services, or games
- Outdoor spaces such as gardens, patios, or BBQ areas
- Kitchen facilities where you can prepare your favourite holiday treats
- A homely atmosphere with appropriate furnishings and decoration
During the holiday season, many STA properties embrace the festive spirit with decorations and special celebrations. This can help create that special holiday feeling even when you’re away from home.
9. Positive reviews and reputation
While every participant’s experience is unique, reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into what you might expect from an STA provider.
Research the provider by:
- Reading testimonials on the provider’s website
- Asking your support coordinator for recommendations
- Checking reviews on NDIS provider directories
- Speaking with other families who have used the service
- Asking the provider for references if you’re comfortable doing so
Positive reviews generally indicate good service, which is a good sign for accessibility needs. Pay particular attention to feedback about how providers handle challenges, communicate with families, and adapt to individual needs.
10. Flexibility and responsive communication
The best STA providers understand that plans sometimes change, especially during the busy holiday season when family gatherings and other commitments might shift.
The new NDIS rules offer more flexibility regarding bookings and cancellations, aiming to reduce the administrative burden for both providers and participants. However, individual providers may have their own policies.
Look for providers who demonstrate:
- Clear communication about booking processes and requirements
- Reasonable cancellation policies
- Willingness to accommodate dietary requirements or preferences
- Flexibility in activity planning based on participant interests
- Responsiveness to enquiries and concerns
- Openness to family involvement and visitation during your stay
- Ability to adapt support plans if your needs change during the stay
Good communication before your booking is often a strong indicator of the quality of support you’ll receive during your stay.
Conclusion
Choosing the right STA property for your holiday break requires careful consideration, but taking the time to ask the right questions and assess your options will help ensure a positive experience. Remember that your stay should promise new encounters, novel experiences, and a chance for both individuals and their carers to recharge.
If you’re planning for the Christmas and New Year period, book early as holiday periods tend to fill up quickly. Discuss your options with your support coordinator or plan manager to ensure your booking aligns with your NDIS plan and funding.
Most importantly, don’t settle for anything less than accommodation that meets your safety, support, and comfort needs. Your holiday break should be enjoyable, relaxing, and tailored to your individual requirements.
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