Short Term Respite (STR)

With the new NDIS changes, we understand that navigating the details can be challenging.

We recognise the positive impact Short-Term Respite (STR) can have on a participant’s well-being, capacity building, and opportunities for rest and recovery.

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Zest’s STAs are here to stay, with a few adjustments to improve the experience. We’ve been working behind the scenes to ensure we can continue providing STR while maintaining compliance and enhancing quality.

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We will continue to work closely with participants to ensure each STR is individualised and aligned with their goals and needs, while ensuring all requests are reasonable and necessary.

STR can be arranged in our specially designed Seaford Meadows home or in suitable accommodation such as Airbnb, Stayz, hotels, or other providers, always based on the participant’s needs and preferences.

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Please note the following requirements for Short-Term Respite:

• Participants must agree to a check-in/check-out shift with a Zest Support Worker. These shifts allow staff to meet the participant, provide support, answer questions, and complete any necessary documentation.

• Participants must have a Zest Support Worker (or their own support worker) providing services throughout the STA. This is a compliance requirement, as STR is not simply a holiday but an opportunity for respite while working toward NDIS goals.

• Zest is no longer able to assist with interstate STR.

• Any damages to accommodation or breaches of rules are the participant’s responsibility.

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After each STR, Zest provides a detailed report outlining how the experience aligns with the participant’s NDIS goals. This can support Change of Circumstances requests, reviews, or other NDIS conversations.

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We are committed to supporting participants in accessing meaningful and beneficial respite experiences. Please reach out if you have any questions or need assistance organising an upcoming STR.