March 2026

For many Australians living with a disability, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is more than just funding—it’s a gateway to independence, mobility, and meaningful life experiences. Yet one question continues to cause confusion: What travel-related support can you actually claim under NDIS? Let’s understand the practical breakdown of NDIS travel support—covering transport, holidays, and assistance—so you can confidently use your plan to its full potential. Understanding NDIS Travel Support NDIS travel support is designed to help participants access essential services, engage with their community, and pursue personal goals safely and independently. It is important to understand that NDIS does not fund travel for leisure alone. Instead, it funds the support required to make travel possible. This includes assistance with: NDIS Transport Funding: Everyday Mobility Transport funding is one of the most commonly included supports in NDIS plans. What it covers How it works Participants typically receive a transport allowance, which may be: This support is intended for individuals who are unable to use public transport independently due to their disability. Travel for Medical and Therapy Appointments NDIS provides support for travel that is directly linked to disability-related care. Eligible travel includes What can be funded This ensures participants can consistently access the care they need without barriers. Supported Holidays and Short-Term Accommodation (STA) One of the most valuable—and often misunderstood—areas of NDIS travel support is Short-Term Accommodation (STA), commonly referred to as respite. What STA includes Why it matters Supported travel experiences allow participants to: While NDIS does not pay for luxury travel, it does fund the supports that make travel accessible and meaningful. Community Participation and Travel NDIS places strong emphasis on helping participants stay socially connected. This includes travel for The objective is to enhance quality of life by encouraging active participation in society. What NDIS Travel Support Does Not Cover Understanding the limitations of NDIS funding is essential to avoid misunderstandings or rejected claims. NDIS does not cover: The scheme focuses on funding necessary supports, not discretionary travel. Eligibility: Do You Qualify for Travel Support? Travel support is typically included under: You may be eligible if: A support coordinator or planner can help clarify what is included in your plan. How to Access and Use Your Travel Funding To make the most of your NDIS travel support, follow a structured approach: 1. Review Your Plan Identify transport and support-related funding categories. 2. Consult Your Support Coordinator Ensure your travel needs align with your approved goals. 3. Choose an Experienced Provider Work with providers who understand NDIS compliance and participant needs. 4. Plan and Book in Advance Organised planning ensures smoother approvals and better experiences. Maximising Your NDIS Travel Benefits To get the most value from your funding: A strategic approach can significantly improve both your experience and outcomes. The Growing Importance of Travel in NDIS Plans As the NDIS continues to evolve, there is increasing recognition that travel plays a vital role in: Participants are no longer just accessing services—they are pursuing experiences that enrich their lives. Conclusion: Turning Funding into Freedom NDIS travel support is not just about getting from one place to another. It is about creating opportunities, building confidence, and living a more independent life. When used effectively, your plan can open doors to experiences that were once out of reach. For those seeking a reliable and experienced provider, Comfy Travel offers tailored solutions designed specifically for NDIS participants. From supported holidays and Short-Term Accommodation to accessible transport and personalised care, their services are built around comfort, safety, and independence.

Top 10 Wheelchair-Friendly Coastal Getaways in NSW & VIC  Planning wheelchair friendly getaways in NSW & VIC should feel empowering, not exhausting. For NDIS participants and family carers, a simple beach holiday can involve detailed coordination; checking beach matting availability, confirming accessible bathrooms, arranging mobility hire, and securing suitable transport.  Australia’s coastline is stunning, but accessibility varies widely between destinations. Some beaches now offer all-terrain wheelchairs and access matting, while others still present challenges. Accommodation listings may advertise “accessible”, yet fail to include step-free entries or roll-in showers.  That’s why many families turn to specialist travel planners such as Comfy Travel. With experience supporting NDIS participants across Australia, Comfy Travel assists with transport coordination, Short Term Accommodation (STA), risk planning, and tailored support to make coastal holidays achievable and stress-free. Our team at Comfy Travel connects participants with the best wheelchair-accessible vehicles, helping them experience the journey without worrying about logistics.  Below, we explore 10 outstanding coastal destinations offering some of the best accessible beaches in NSW and wheelchair accommodation in Victoria, complete with practical accessibility scoring and real-world travel advice.  New South Wales Coastal Destinations 1.Byron Bay Accessibility Score: 4.5/5  Beach Accessibility  Main Beach regularly installs seasonal beach access matting, improving mobility access onto the sand. Beach wheelchairs are often available through local providers. Pathways along the foreshore are wide and mostly level, supporting independent movement.  Accommodation Options  Byron Bay offers modern apartments and holiday homes with step-free entry. Many newer builds include lift access, open-plan layouts and accessible bathrooms. Always confirm roll-in shower configuration and grab rail placement before confirming your booking.  Accessible Transport Options  Accessible taxis operate locally, though demand increases during peak periods. If flying into Ballina or Gold Coast airports, pre-arranged modified transfers are recommended.  Carer & Mobility Hire Tips  Reserve beach wheelchairs early, particularly during school holidays. Portable ramps and shower commodes can be arranged through regional mobility hire providers. 2.Port Macquarie Accessibility Score: 4/5  Beach Accessibility  Town Beach is one of the more reliable accessible beaches in NSW. Seasonal matting is installed, and nearby facilities include accessible toilets and parking.  Accommodation Options  Waterfront apartments often provide lift access and ground-floor units. When reviewing listings, request written confirmation of entry thresholds and internal turning space.  Accessible Transport Options  Accessible taxis service the region. Public buses are limited in accessibility consistency, so private accessible transport may be more reliable.  Carer & Mobility Hire Tips  Choose accommodation within walking distance to reduce vehicle transfers. Hiring a portable hoist may provide additional safety for longer stays. 3.Coffs Harbour Accessibility Score: 4/5  Beach Accessibility  Jetty Beach provides firm entry points and relatively calm conditions. The surrounding marina precinct includes accessible pathways and amenities.  Accommodation Options  Holiday apartments near the jetty often include lift access and step-free layouts. Confirm shower access and doorway widths before arrival.  Accessible Transport Options  Pre-booked accessible vans operate locally. Airport transfers can be arranged with sufficient notice.  Carer & Mobility Hire Tips  Regional mobility hire providers offer shower chairs, wheelchairs and portable ramps. Book at least two weeks in advance. 4.Jervis Bay Accessibility Score: 4.5/5  Beach Accessibility  Huskisson Beach offers calm waters and seasonal beach matting. The environment is generally quieter than larger tourist centres, which may suit participants with sensory sensitivities.  Accommodation Options  Modern villas provide step-free entry and accessible bathrooms. Confirm bathroom layout photos prior to booking.  Accessible Transport Options  Accessible vehicle hire must be arranged early, particularly during summer months.  Carer & Mobility Hire Tips  Morning visits provide firmer sand and cooler temperatures. Plan rest breaks between beach visits. 5. Manly Accessibility Score: 4.5/5  Beach Accessibility  Manly Beach provides beach matting and wheelchair hire during peak seasons. The promenade is paved and suitable for mobility devices.  Accommodation Options  Serviced apartments near the beachfront offer lift access and accessible bathroom options.  Accessible Transport Options  The ferry from Sydney CBD is wheelchair accessible, making travel simple without private vehicle hire.  Carer & Mobility Hire Tips  Urban proximity allows easy access to pharmacies and medical facilities if required.  Victoria Coastal Destinations 6. Lorne Accessibility Score: 4/5  Beach Accessibility  Lorne Main Beach provides seasonal beach matting to assist wheelchair users accessing the sand. The foreshore includes paved pathways suitable for mobility devices. Surf conditions vary, so supported entry planning is important.  Accommodation Options  Lorne offers modern holiday apartments and townhouses with step-free entry and ground-floor living. Several properties along the Great Ocean Road provide ramp access and accessible bathrooms with grab rails and open showers. Confirm door widths and shower lip height before booking.  Accessible Transport Options  Public transport accessibility is limited. Accessible transport options typically involve pre-arranged modified vans from Melbourne or Geelong. Private vehicle hire offers greater flexibility for exploring scenic lookouts.  Carer & Mobility Hire Tips  When visiting nearby Great Ocean Road attractions, check lookout accessibility in advance. Consider hiring a portable hoist if extended stays are planned. 7. Torquay Accessibility Score: 4/5  Beach Accessibility  Front Beach offers calmer conditions compared to surf beaches, making it more suitable for supported water access. Seasonal matting may be installed during peak months.  Accommodation Options  Torquay holiday parks provide modified cabins with ramp access and accessible bathrooms. Some beach houses also feature step-free layouts and wide hallways suitable for mobility aids.  Accessible Transport Options  Accessible taxis are limited in regional Victoria. Hiring a modified vehicle from Melbourne is often the most reliable solution.  Carer & Mobility Hire Tips  Check internal space for safe transfers around beds and in bathrooms. Confirm proximity to accessible public toilets near the beachfront. 8. Rye Accessibility Score: 4.5/5  Beach Accessibility  Rye’s calm bay waters make it one of the more accessible beaches in Victoria for supported swimming. Seasonal matting improves sand access, and the shoreline slope is generally gentle.  Accommodation Options  The Mornington Peninsula region offers strong availability of wheelchair accommodation in Victoria, including step-free beach houses and accessible apartments. Many properties provide open-plan living areas ideal for wheelchair turning space.  Accessible Transport Options  Accessible taxis can be arranged from Melbourne with prior notice. Private accessible vans provide flexibility for exploring surrounding towns.  Carer & Mobility Hire Tips  Beach wheelchair hire should be organised ahead of time, particularly in summer. Plan for shaded rest areas during peak sun hours. 9. Lakes Entrance Accessibility Score: 3.8/5  Beach Accessibility  Lakes Entrance features a

Using Short Term Accommodation (STA) for a Meaningful Regional Break  Understanding what is STA short term accommodation in Australia is vital for NDIS participants and planners looking to create a meaningful break that supports both skill-building and resourcing. STA isn’t just a holiday; it’s funded, structured support designed to help participants develop independence, engage with community, build confidence and provide genuine rest for informal carers.  For many, planning STA can feel overwhelming. That’s where specialists like Comfy Travel step in. Comfy Travel is an NDIS-registered provider that structures STA journeys with personalised itineraries, accessible transport options, overnight support and tailored activities so each participant’s goals are met with safety, dignity and empowerment.  This blog explores STA’s purpose, its key differences from respite and supported holiday supports, how to use STA funding confidently, essential booking tips, NDIS claim codes and strategic planning sections that make your next regional break both purposeful and manageable.  What Is STA Short Term Accommodation in Australia?  Short Term Accommodation (STA) under the NDIS is a funded support that enables participants to stay away from their usual home for short periods, typically up to a few nights or weeks, with paid disability support included in a coordinated setting. STA funding covers:  Accommodation  Personal care and daily support  Meals and community participation  Overnight support where required  These stays are structured to deliver meaningful outcomes such as building social confidence, practising daily living tasks in a new setting, supporting routines, and giving informal carers respite from day-to-day responsibilities. Unlike a standard holiday, STA must align with the participant’s NDIS goals and be reasonable and necessary to support those goals.  STA remains part of the Core Supports budget under Assistance with Daily Life in most NDIS plans.   STA vs Respite vs Supported Holiday – What’s the Difference?  Understanding how STA relates to other common terms helps you make informed decisions about booking, funding and outcomes.  STA (Short Term Accommodation) – Goal-Driven Support  STA is defined by outcomes. The intent must be goal-related support, community engagement, life skills development, or carer relief that aligns with NDIS plan objectives. STA may include structured activities and disability supports embedded in accommodation. It is not simply a recreational stay.  Respite – Carer Relief  Although “respite” is often used interchangeably with STA in everyday conversation, it historically referred to providing carers with a break. Under the NDIS, respite funding usually falls under STA and must still connect with participant needs, care continuity and reasonable and necessary supports.  Supported Holiday – Travel Experience  A supported holiday might include STA as part of a broader travel experience, but the focus is on leisure alongside support. For funding purposes, supported holiday models must still meet NDIS funding rules by demonstrating how the participant’s disability support needs are met and how the experience supports specific goals. If the trip is purely leisure with no measurable support outcomes, it likely won’t meet funding criteria.  The Purpose of STA – Beyond ‘Just a Break’  STA is designed to support participants in ways that go beyond simply having a rest or holiday: 1. Developing Independence Participants can build skills such as meal preparation, transportation navigation, budgeting, social engagement and personal care in a new context. 2. Building Confidence Trying new environments and activities with qualified support fosters confidence and self-esteem. 3. Supporting Community Participation STA can include structured community access plans, local experiences and interactions that participants might otherwise miss. 4. Providing Carer Relief By including overnight support, STA can give informal carers much-needed breaks without compromising continuity of care.  Choosing Between STA and Other Supports  If your plan includes a Core budget item for STA, here are decisions you may be asked to make:  Use STA for Life Skills and Participation  When a regional break can be connected to goals like independence, social skills, routine building or community access.  Use STA for Personal Respite  When a family carer needs a meaningful break and the participant’s care needs are still met in a structured setting.  Use Other Core Supports (if Flexible)  If STA isn’t meeting your goals or preferences, Core Supports are often flexible enough to shift hours into community participation, transport support, or additional personal supports, provided they remain reasonable and necessary. Always confirm with your planner or plan manager.  Inclusion of Accessible Transport and Equipment  Beyond accommodation and support costs, well-planned STA includes:  Accessible Transport  Comfy Travel coordinates wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ramps, lifts and door-to-door service as part of an STA package. This ensures participants can safely access community outings, local attractions and daily tasks.  Equipment and Mobility Support  If you travel with power wheelchairs, walkers or hoists, Comfy Travel’s team checks vehicle compatibility and logistics. This eliminates barriers that often arise when arranging transport separately.  Booking STA the Right Way – Practical STA Booking Tips  Planning an STA break involves understanding logistics, budgets and goals. Here are essential STA booking tips to keep in mind: 1.Start With Clear Goals Before booking, articulate how the STA stay connects to your NDIS goals. For example: “Participant will practise independent meal preparation and community social engagement.” 2. Choose the Right Location Regional destinations can offer quieter environments ideal for independence and routine work. Comfy Travel tailors stays to match each participant’s preferences and goals. 3. Confirm Support Ratios Support staff ratios (e.g., 1:1 vs 1:3) affect both the experience and the budget. Higher complexity needs generally require higher supports and budget allowances. 4. Document Overnight Support Requirements Clarify whether overnight support is required, and if so, what level (active night or sleepover). This impacts funding usage and staffing plans. 5. Ask for a Written Service Agreement Always obtain a detailed service agreement that outlines inclusions, costs, claim codes and responsibilities before confirming your booking. 6. Plan for Activities and Community Access Ensure community access outings, local events or skill development activities are built into your STA package. 7. Leave Buffer Time Plan departure and return times that leave room for extra rest or transition support at the start and end of your break.  Additional STA Features and Benefits  Comfy Travel bring additional value to STA stays that go beyond basic accommodation:  Personalised Travel Planning  Comfy Travel consultants deliver obligation-free consultations, then customise itineraries based on accessibility needs, medical requirements, preferences and NDIS goals.  Transparent Pricing  All costs, including NDIS claimable supports and personal expenses, are presented upfront so you know exactly what to expect.  24/7 Support  Support staff are trained, NDIS-screened and available around the clock to ensure safety and peace of mind throughout your STA journey.  Flexible Options  Whether it’s a group break, one-on-one support, accessible transport or