Short Term Accommodation & Respite Hervey Bay, Maryborough & the Fraser Coast

Whether you’re an NDIS participant, a carer needing a rest, or someone looking to try out supported living in a relaxed way, our STA services in Hervey Bay and across the Fraser Coast are here when you need them.

What Is Short Term Respite (STR)?

Short Term Respite is a temporary stay away from home with support included. It’s a chance to enjoy a break, meet new people, and try something different — all while having the help you need to feel comfortable and cared for.

STR is funded through your NDIS plan and can be used for planned breaks, emergency situations, or as a way to trial living more independently. Most NDIS participants have access to up to 28 days of STR funding per year — your support coordinator can confirm exactly what’s in your plan.

During your stay, we’ll support you with:
Personal care and daily routines
Nutritious meals (we’ll cook what you like!)
Fun social outings and activities
Life skill development in a relaxed setting
A support ratio that suits your individual needs

We do respite a little differently. Think comfort, community, and the occasional beach BBQ where someone inevitably brings way too many sausages. Every stay is a chance to breathe, connect, and build a little more independence.

A Break That Feels Right

Our respite care isn’t just about taking time away, it’s about making that time feel good. Whether it’s for a few days or a little longer, you’ll be supported by people who genuinely care and take the time to get to know you. It’s your stay, your way. We’ll work with you to plan activities that suit your interests, whether that’s relaxing at home, exploring the local community, or simply enjoying some time for yourself.

Emergency Respite? We’re Here
for That Too

We get it — life happens. If something unexpected comes up and you need urgent respite care, give us a call. We offer emergency respite at short notice, and our experienced team is ready to step in. You’ll have a safe place to stay and qualified support workers by your side — no stress, just the help you need when you need it most.

Recently moved to Hervey Bay? Read our guide for families new to the Fraser Coast →

Children & Teens

A safe, fun stay away with full support and activities tailored to them.

Young Adults

Trial independent living in a warm, supported environment.

Families & Carers

Take a genuine break knowing your person is in warm, caring hands.

Who is respite at FCDS right for?

We offer respite for NDIS participants aged 7 and above, across all disability types and abilities. Whether it’s a teenager who’d love a break away from the family home, a young adult trying independent living for the first time, or someone with complex needs who requires consistent overnight support — we’ll build a stay around what works for them.

We also understand what it means for families. Taking a break isn’t selfish — it’s how carers stay strong enough to keep going. If you need a few days to breathe, we’ll make sure the person you care for is in safe, warm, genuinely caring hands while you do.

Why Choose Fraser Coast Disability Services?

We’re a small, local team based right here in the Fraser Coast region, and we care. We treat every person who walks through our door with kindness, respect, and care. Our homes are welcoming, and our staff are the kind of people you’d want to hang out with. They will laugh at your jokes (even the bad ones) and remember how you take your toast.

Whether it’s your first time using STA or you’ve done it before, we’ll make sure you feel relaxed, respected and completely at ease.

Frequently asked questions

01. How many days of respite does the NDIS fund?

Most NDIS participants can access up to 28 days of Short Term Respite (STR) per year through their plan. This can be used in one block or spread across the year in shorter stays it depends on what’s in your plan and what works for your family. Your support coordinator can confirm your exact entitlement, or give us a call and we’ll help you work it out.

02. Can I access emergency respite care in Hervey Bay?

Yes FCDS offers emergency respite at short notice for participants on the Fraser Coast. If something unexpected happens and you need urgent care, call Josie on 0418 22 84 52. We’ll give you an honest answer about availability that day and do everything we can to have support in place quickly.

03. What does a respite stay with FCDS actually look like?

Every stay is different because every person is different. We’ll talk with you beforehand about routines, preferences, favourite foods, and what makes a good day for the participant. During the stay, we’ll provide personal care, meals, activities, and whatever level of support is needed — in a relaxed, friendly environment. Think of it as a supported holiday rather than a clinical placement.

04. Can I use NDIS respite funding if I've recently moved to Hervey Bay?

Yes — your NDIS plan travels with you when you relocate. If STR funding is already in your plan, you can use it with a registered provider in your new area straight away. We’re a registered NDIS provider in Hervey Bay, and we regularly support families who have recently moved to the Fraser Coast. Get in touch before or after your move and we’ll take it from there.

Let's Talk Respite

Whether you need a planned break, emergency cover, or you’re simply curious about what a stay with FCDS looks like — Josie is the person to call. She’ll give you a straight answer, talk through your options, and make sure there’s no pressure to commit before you’re ready. Give her a ring on 0418 22 84 52.