Understanding NDIS Short-Term Accommodation (STA) Guidelines

Short-Term Accommodation, also known as STA by the NDIS, is designed to help informal supports continue their caregiving role. It is one option for participants and their informal support to get some time apart to stay away from their usual home for a short period. Recently, the NDIS Short-Term Accommodation have been updated.  These rules explain how short-term accommodation and help, like respite care, work and what they can be used for.

In this blog post, we will look at the important points from the NDIS Short-Term Accommodation Guidelines and understand how to create better plans.

What is STA, and what’s its purpose?

Short-term accommodation (STA) is part of your basic NDIS support. This helps you when you are away from your regular home for a short period. The main use of this support is for a short break, called respite, which gives the caregiver a little time free from their caring role. This break helps your caregiver to rest, and you can rest assured that you are well supported using NDIS financing.

STA also gives you the opportunity to grow. Depending on your NDIS plan and what you need, living away from home can help you gain independence, meet new friends, and learn different skills.

NDIS Short-Term Accommodation Key Changes

In the legislative changes that come into force in October 2024, short-term accommodation is still an NDIS support. This support falls under core assistance with daily tasks in the group or shared living category.

• Sta is a type of NDIS support.
• You can use STA funding to stay home for up to 14 days at a time.
• STA is not available to people who are in a supported independent lifestyle (SIL) or living alone.
• In general, funding for group value is provided, unless there is evidence that a participant needs individual support.
• You can not use STA to pay for goods on the list of non-NDIS supports.

What’s New: Included in STA Post Guideline Changes

Under the new rules from NDI about short-term housing, there are some key points that explain how STA money works and what it pays for:

1. Group rates are normal: STA funds usually apply group prices unless there is strong proof that someone requires one-on-one help.
2. Inclusions for group settings: When STA is in a group center or residence, funding may cover meals, activities, and some related travel costs.
3. Daily rate limits: The total cost, including these extras, must fit within the maximum all-inclusive daily claimable rates defined by the NDIS pricing arrangement and price limits.
4. Operating guidelines: There are rules for STAs under the NDIS that involve staff training, planning support for participants, hygiene and access for everyone, emergency plans, and following laws and regulations.

This update means you need to plan carefully and keep clear records to make sure that STA claims follow the strict rules and do not get delayed or turned down. So, it would be wise to team up with reliable NDIS STA providers for professional, end-to-end assistance.

What’s not included in STA?

1. Food and groceries
2. long-term accommodation/housing crises  
3. STA funds transportation or travel to the residence
4. Any item on the list of non-NDIS supports.
5. Things like vacations, cruises, holiday deals, plane tickets, travel insurance, fun activities, or sightseeing trips
6. Places like amusement parks, concerts, theaters, movie theaters, sports games, and conferences
7. Accommodation or travel costs for family members or support personnel
8. Housing for any other reason, for example, waiting for modifications to be made to the house

How Can You Comply with the New STA NDIA Rules?

If you are organizing STA for yourself or a loved one, or if you are the provider of STA or respite, it will be very necessary to make sure that your arrangements satisfy the NDIA requirements.

• Make sure that the short-term stay or respite matches the participant’s support needs and includes the support amount mentioned in the NDIS Plan.
• Attach supporting papers to your bill, like a service agreement, support logs, timesheets, a list of activities, or accommodation receipts.
• If you can, choose a place that is easy to get to and close to home, as the NDIA might review stays that are too far away.
• If you are unsure, ask your NDIS Planner or Local Area Coordinator first.
• Stay updated on NDIA rules, especially about how STA is different from a vacation, and only charge for the things that the participant’s NDIS plan covers.

Important Note: The NDIA will not fund holidays or recreational trips.

Accommodate the New STA Guideline with the SDA Homes, WA

The NDIS Short-Term Accommodation, or respite care, is an ongoing exploration. By adhering to the updated STA guidelines, you will easily manage your funding transparently. Moreover, it will become smooth for your NDIS service providers to provide safe, reliable, and person-centered care. The approach will indeed enhance your well-being and quality of life and give your career and family members complete relaxation on your end.

As a registered NDIS STA provider, we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of disability. At SDA Homes, our professionals continue to use the best of the STA for individuals with disabilities to provide them with the support and opportunities they need to grow and thrive.

Common Questions on NDIS STA Guidelines

1. When will the new STA changes take effect?

The new NDIS laws come into force on October 3, 2024. There will be some amendments as soon as the law comes into force. These changes aim to return the NDIs to their original intention. Other changes will be implemented later when new NDIS rules are introduced.

2. What is the purpose of this new STA legislation?

The new law aims to create the framework needed to promote important NDIS review recommendations in collaboration with the disabled community and the broader society. 

3. How do I apply for NDIS STA funding?

To add STA to your NDIS plan, speak with the support coordinator or local coordinator.  You will need to provide proof and documents, like medical reports and a note from your caregiver, to back up your request.

4. Can my family members stay with me in STA under NDIS funding?

No, STA funding is just for the NDIS participant. It does not pay for family members’ accommodation or travel costs. The goal of this NDIS support is to give your regular caregiver and family some time away from your regular home.