In November 2025, when the NDIS transitioned from Short Term Accommodation (STA) to Short Term Respite (STR) , the shift may have seemed like a small wording change on the surface. But for those supporting participants and families every day, this carried much deeper significance.
It refocused the purpose of respite on what matters most: stability, wellbeing, relationships, and meaningful rest for both participants and their families/ carers.
For Paylos, the transition was an opportunity, not just to update terminology, but to evolve our programs so they continue to feel supportive, enriching, and purposeful.
A Shift That Clarified the Heart of Respite
Under the old STA language, respite was sometimes viewed through the lens of accommodation. STR brings the emphasis back to why the support exists: to give participants a safe, supported break while providing families and carers the time and space they need to rest, recover, and reconnect.
The structure of respite remains the same, and the intentions behind it are clearer than ever.
To make the update easier to understand, here are the small technical clarifications that came with STR:
- STA is now called STR → same support, clearer name.
- Informal support must fall between 6–18 hours/day → this was already common practice; now it’s just written more clearly.
- One-to-one STR support is still allowed → as long as a Behaviour Support Plan or Functional Capacity Assessment supports it.
- Group STRs are heavily encouraged → which is great, because Paylos already runs group-based, connection-building programs.
- Documentation expectations are clearer → nothing scary, just more transparency about what supports look like day-to-day in a stronger evidence pack.
This aligns closely with Paylos’ long-standing approach to respite: it should feel steady, welcoming, and uplifting, not clinical or transactional.
How Paylos Used the STR Update to Strengthen Our Programs
Rather than rushing out an announcement, our team spent time carefully adapting our systems, structures, and communication to not only meet STR expectations but to exceed them.
Here’s how we evolved in a way that feels natural, thoughtful, and aligned with our mission:
1. Clearer, Stronger Foundations Behind Every Stay
We updated our STR documentation to make it clearer, more transparent, and easier for families and plan managers to navigate. This includes:
- Clear description of the purpose of each stay
- Support-hour structure aligned with STR expectations (6–18 hours)
- Daily activities tailored to participant needs
- Transparent outcomes and benefits
- Compliance-ready documentation supporting smooth approvals
These updates ensure families know exactly what to expect and plan managers have everything they need upfront.
2. Programs That Reflect the Purpose Behind STR
Adventure is part of who we are, but so is safety, connection, and emotional wellbeing.
The STR update validated our focus on programs that build:
- Gentle independence
- Teamwork and social confidence
- Grounding experiences in nature
- Positive memories with peers
- Real-world skills participants can take home
Our programs weren’t redesigned, they were refined to highlight the therapeutic value already at the core of the Paylos model.
3. Experiences Designed to Feel Meaningful, Not Mandatory
STR at Paylos is not about filling time, it’s about creating moments that matter.
Participants might:
- Help prepare group meals
- Explore the High Country
- Learn hands-on skills at the farm
- Enjoy structured outdoor activities
- Build friendships and confidence through shared experiences
Every activity is chosen for purpose and pacing — not for entertainment alone.
4. Stronger Communication With the People Who Support Participants
Throughout the sector, plan managers and coordinators have been navigating the STR transition too and clarity helps everyone.
We now provide:
- Detailed evidence packs
- Clear program outlines
- Example itineraries
- Support-hour documentation
- Refined quotes aligned with STR expectations
This ensures smoother approvals and shared understanding from the start.
STR Didn’t Change Who We Are — It Strengthened What We Stand For
The update didn’t redirect us — it clarified the path we were already walking. STR sharpened the purpose of respite and reaffirmed the values at the heart of Paylos: intentional support, meaningful experiences, and programs that genuinely strengthen the wellbeing of participants and their families.
And as new expectations emerge, we’ll continue to evolve in the background, making thoughtful adjustments that ensure participants and families always feel held, understood, and confident in the support they receive.
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