Short-term accommodation 101
There are so many different supports that you can receive funding for when you are an NDIS participant. It can be impossible to keep track of what supports might be tucked away in your plan. And we have found that some clients aren’t aware that they have funding for an STA or aren’t sure what an STA is.
STA or short-term accommodation is similar to respite. Every NDIS plan provides STA funding, even if it doesn’t explicitly state so.
So, what is an STA (or respite)?
An STA is a way of providing care that allows both you and your formal or informal carer/s (family or friends) to have a break or a change of scenery. Specifically, an STA is a 24 hour stay away from your current carer/s where support, accommodation, food and any activities are paid for out of your NDIS funding.
There is no single way of having an STA, you can have an STA with one-on-support where you go away with a single support worker. Of you can have an STA in a group setting with several support workers, in this case your provider will match you up with other participants who share similar needs and interests. In some cases, your STA provider may have specific facilities that they use for an STA, in others the provider may book a hotel or AirBNB that will accommodate your needs.
Why do we recommend booking an STA?
STA’s can often provide a well-needed break in routine for NDIS participants and their supports. They are an opportunity for a change of scenery, forming new friendships and participating in different activities to develop new skills. Other benefits of choosing an STA could include:
Doing something new and stepping outside of your comfort zone!
Taking time to do enjoyable and stress-relieving activities so that you can recharge
Increasing your independence
How much funding is available in a NDIS plan for an STA?
Firstly, we always recommend that you consult your support coordinator to discuss your individual plan – it’s always better to get advice that is tailored to you. But usually, the NDIS will fund up to 28 days of STA each year, and it is up to you how you would like to use your funding.
Where is this funding located?
The funds for your STA should be located in the core support category “assistance with daily living”. If an STA isn’t explicitly written into your plan and you have funding available in your core budget, you can use that funding for different supports including an STA. However, it is important to prioritise using your funding for day-to-day supports before using up your funding by booking an STA.
How do I book an STA?
If you currently receive supports from a support service company, you can speak with them and ask them to organise an STA on your behalf. The company can then organise a support worker who can provide care while you’re at your STA. There are service providers who offer only STAs as their main service, and may have options like a group STA. At the end of the day, it’s completely up to you! We recommend picking the service that feels right for you and will offer an STA experience that you will enjoy.
The process of finding the right STA service provider to meet your needs can be overwhelming. Take your time to research what’s available and which STA providers will meet your specific support needs. We love organising STA’s and if you are looking for an STA provider, please reach out!
