Funding STA in Your NDIS Plan: Tips and Considerations

Funding STA in Your NDIS Plan: Tips and Considerations

Short Term Accommodation (STA) is a valuable support option under the NDIS that offers participants temporary, supportive living arrangements. It is especially useful during times of transition, respite, or when regular supports are unavailable. When planning for STA funding, understanding how it fits into your NDIS Disability Accommodation goals is essential. This article explores tips and considerations to help you secure STA funding effectively and align it with your broader NDIS plan.

What is STA in the NDIS?

STA refers to short-term stays in a supported environment away from your usual home. It can be used for respite care, developing independent living skills, or accessing community activities in a structured setting. Most participants can access up to 28 days of STA per year, typically funded under the Core Supports category of your NDIS plan. These stays are usually inclusive of personal care, accommodation, food, and community access.

Understanding STA within NDIS Disability Accommodation

STA is considered a flexible form of NDIS Disability Accommodation. While it doesn’t offer a long-term housing solution, it plays a significant role in supporting a participant’s housing and care needs temporarily. Whether you're exploring different living options, transitioning out of the family home, or providing a carer with a break, STA allows you to experience alternative accommodation settings in a safe and supportive environment.

Tips for Including STA in Your Plan

1. Link STA to Your Goals
   To get STA approved in your plan, clearly link it to one or more of your NDIS goals. For example, if one of your goals is to become more independent or to explore different living options, you can explain how STA will help you achieve this. Document how temporary stays will build your capacity, reduce support dependency, or improve your daily living skills.

2. Include Evidence and Reports
   Supporting documentation can significantly strengthen your STA request. Occupational therapy reports, behaviour support assessments, or a letter from your support coordinator can outline your need for STA as part of your NDIS Disability Accommodation plan. These reports should highlight how STA addresses your functional limitations and enhances your independence.

3. Use Language That Reflects Your Needs
   When preparing for a planning meeting or plan review, be specific about how STA supports your health, well-being, or progress towards goals. Use terms like “short-term accommodation for respite,” “community participation,” or “skills development” to describe the intended use of STA funding.

4. Demonstrate Value and Need
   Explain how STA provides not only temporary relief but also long-term benefits, such as reducing hospital admissions, avoiding crisis situations, or maintaining stable informal support arrangements. Highlight how this form of NDIS Disability Accommodation contributes to your overall stability and safety.

Considerations When Using STA

1. Plan Your Usage Wisely
   STA is time-limited, so it's important to plan how and when you’ll use it. Spread the 28 days across the year strategically—perhaps for holidays, scheduled respite, or trialing new living environments.

2. Check What’s Included
   STA funding typically covers 24/7 support, accommodation, meals, and activities. However, make sure you understand the details of what’s included before booking. Not all providers offer the same services, so reviewing this carefully ensures the experience meets your expectations and needs.

3. Review Funding Regularly
   Your need for STA might change over time. For example, you may require more frequent stays due to changes in carer availability or health needs. Be sure to review this at every plan reassessment and provide updated reports if necessary.

4. Explore Capacity Building Through STA
   STA isn’t just for rest—it’s an opportunity for growth. Whether it’s learning how to prepare meals, use public transport, or interact with new people, STA can build valuable skills that align with your NDIS Disability Accommodation journey.

Conclusion

Including STA in your NDIS plan offers flexibility, support, and developmental opportunities, especially when thoughtfully aligned with your goals. It can serve as a stepping stone in your broader NDIS Disability Accommodation pathway, helping you explore what kind of living arrangement works best for your needs. With the right preparation and evidence, you can ensure your plan supports not just your current needs, but your future potential as well