NDIS Short Term Accommodation: Key Changes Coming in 2024

Change is on the horizon for NDIS Short-Term Accommodation (STA) in 2024, and these updates could, therefore, impact how participants and their carers access support. With new guidelines set to roll out in December 2024, there’s certainly a lot to unpack. This blog will not only break down the key changes from the FAQs but also explain their implications and help you navigate what’s ahead\.

1. STA: Still on the Approved NDIS Supports List

STA remains a vital support under the NDIS because it’s designed to give participants and their carers a break.

• Duration: Up to 14 days at a time, with a yearly limit of 28 days.
• Purpose: Supports time apart, promoting independence and respite for informal carers.

👉 Practical Tip: Check your plan’s core budget for STA eligibility—it doesn’t need to be stated in your plan.

2. What STA Funding Covers (and Doesn’t)

STA funding has clear boundaries; however, here’s the good and the not-so-good:

Included:

Self-care or community access supports.
Accommodation in group or individual settings.
Meals and activities (only in group settings).

Excluded:

Food, groceries, or personal lifestyle costs.
Non-NDIS supports like cruises, theme parks, or family travel expenses.
Providers cannot include meals if the participant chooses STA in an individual setting.
Travel costs.
Participants living alone or with SIL funding.

👉 Practical Tip: Always check the NDIS Pricing Arrangements for up-to-date STA rates.

3. Group vs. Individual Support: Funding Rules

STA funding typically covers group rates; however, individual support is only available with solid evidence of need.

• Group Settings: Providers may bundle meals and activities into the daily rate.
• Individual Settings: No bundled extras like meals.

👉 Practical Tip: Discuss group versus individual options with your provider to avoid surprises.

4. Travel and STA: What’s Covered?

Furthermore, STA does not include travel costs to and from accommodation.

• Travel for activities may be covered if linked to your disability needs.
• Long-distance travel (e.g. flights) are not covered and participants are encouraged to access local options for STA.

👉 Practical Tip: Factor in travel costs when choosing STA options far from home.

5. STA Is Not a Holiday Fund

STA is not for vacations or sightseeing. Its purpose is respite, not leisure.

• Examples Not Covered:
  • Tourist attractions like theme parks.
  • Travel insurance, airfare, or family accommodations.
  • Holiday facilities like cruise ships.

👉 Practical Tip: For holiday needs, consult your support coordinator about non-STA options in your plan.

6. New Rule for Participants in Supported Independent Living (SIL)

STA is no longer available for participants in Supported Independent Living or living alone. This is because these participants already experience time apart from family or informal carers. Additionally, STA can no longer be used solely for capacity and independence building. Instead, the NDIS designed STA funding specifically to provide respite for informal carers.

👉 Practical Tip: If this applies to you, explore alternative supports that better align with your needs.

7. December 2024: Awaiting Final Guidelines

The new operational guidelines will clarify several gray areas. For now, we know:

• STA funding remains under the “Core” category and doesn’t need to be stated in a plan.
• The upcoming updates will refine rules for hotel stays and other non-traditional settings.

👉 Practical Tip: Stay tuned and regularly check for NDIS announcements in December.

8. Impacts on Disability Rights and Emerging Concerns

STA is no longer available for participants in Supported Independent Living or living alone. The reason for this change is that these participants already experience time apart from family or informal carers. Moreover, STA can no longer be used solely for capacity and independence building. Instead, the NDIS specifically designed STA funding to provide respite for informal carers.

👉 Practical Tip: If you fall into this category, consider exploring alternative supports that may better meet your needs.

In Conclusion: Plan Ahead for STA Success

These changes clearly underline the importance of understanding how STA works under NDIS. Therefore, by staying informed, you can make the most of your plan without surprises.

“A little planning goes a long way—especially when it’s about making life easier for everyone involved.”

In the meantime, keep a close eye on the December 2024 updates and connect with your support coordinator. This way, you can ensure your choices align with the new rules. After all, respite is about relief and balance, not unexpected hurdles!

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