Sometimes, you may require temporary arrangements to spend a short time away from home. In such situations, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may fund Short-Term Accommodation (STA) or respite care to provide a break for both you and your carer from your usual support arrangement.
What is Respite Support?
Respite care is a type of STA designed to provide temporary support when your usual caregiver is unavailable. This could include short-term care for a few hours during the day, overnight support, or weekend stays. While informal care from friends and family is common, NDIS funding is only available for formal respite care services that meet your disability-related needs.
What is Short-Term Accommodation (STA)?
STA is a broader term that includes respite care and other temporary accommodation arrangements that provide disability-related support. These breaks can be beneficial for individuals who typically rely on informal supports, allowing them to recharge and maintain long-term support relationships.
Short-term stays generally last up to 14 days at a time, with a total allowance of up to 28 days per year. Longer-term arrangements would fall under Supported Independent Living (SIL) or Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA).
What Does Short-Term Accommodation Cover?
STA funding supports your essential needs while you are in temporary accommodation, including:
- Accommodation
- Personal care
- Meals
- Support for daily activities
- Community access and recreational activities
The NDIS may approve STA funding if it is considered “reasonable and necessary.” Examples include:
- Giving informal carers a break to continue providing long-term support.
- Helping you develop independent living skills.
- Supporting your social and community participation.
Important Considerations for STA
Is STA Covered in My NDIS Plan?
STA funding falls under Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life in your NDIS plan. However, it is not automatically included. To receive STA funding, you may need to provide supporting evidence, such as:
- A report from a healthcare professional (e.g., an occupational therapist).
- A statement from informal supports explaining why a break is necessary.
Even if STA is not specifically stated in your plan, you may still be able to use Core Supports funding flexibly to access these services.
How Might STA Impact My NDIS Budget?
Your Core Supports budget must last for the entire duration of your plan. Since STA can be costly, it is important to plan strategically to ensure funds are used effectively.
STA is generally funded at a group rate rather than 1:1 support, and costs vary based on:
- Weekday vs. weekend/public holiday rates.
- Hourly respite care (day or night rates apply).
- Location (higher costs apply in remote areas).
All STA providers must follow NDIS Price Arrangements and Price Limits, ensuring that rates do not exceed set limits.
Choosing the Right Short-Term Accommodation
When selecting an STA provider, consider:
- Who will be in your group setting (if applicable)?
- What activities are available?
- Can the provider meet your specific support needs?
- What is the accommodation setup (large facility vs. smaller, homely setting)?
STA can be a great opportunity to build independence, meet new people, and engage in meaningful activities.
How Abham Care Can Support You
As an NDIS provider, Abham Care offers participant-centered services that focus on your needs and preferences. If you require respite care or short-term accommodation, our team can assist you in:
- Understanding your NDIS plan and funding options.
- Coordinating with the right STA providers to match your support needs.
- Ensuring your NDIS funding is managed effectively.
If you are considering short-term accommodation or respite care, contact Abham Care today. We’re here to help you make the most of your NDIS plan while ensuring you receive the best possible care and support!