What Is Short-Term Accommodation Under the NDIS?

Short-Term Accommodation (STA) is a support offered through the NDIS. It allows you to stay somewhere else for a short period. This could be for a few days or up to 14 days at a time.

It’s more than just a place to stay because STA gives you a chance to try new things. For example, it allows you to meet people and take a break from your usual routine.

Why Use Short-Term Accommodation?

STA is also useful during times of change, such as when moving house, trying a new living arrangement, or recovering from a health event. Hence, there are lots of benefits that STA provide, especially if you want to find the best accommodation.

There are a few reasons you might want to use STA:

• You need a break from your home environment.
• Your usual carers need time off or have other commitments.
• You want to build independence in a safe and supported setting.

What’s Included in STA?

Clearly, the support you receive should match your needs. If you need one-on-one help, there should be an option for that. However, if you’re more independent, the impact of support may be lighter.

It usually includes:

• A residence place to stay
• Support with personal care and daily task requirements
• Meals and food preparation
• Help with community access or activities

Who Can Get STA?

Not everyone on the NDIS will have STA funding in their plan. You need to show why it helps you work toward your goals. You also need to show that STA is value for money. Hence, it means it helps you without costing more than necessary.

Moreover, you’ll need to include STA in your plan and explain how it fits your needs. With that, you will need the help of a Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to apply.

Your goals might include:

Building New Skills to Live Independently

Short-Term Accommodation can be a practical step toward living more independently. During your short stay, you have the chance to practice everyday tasks in a supported environment. Some of which include cooking simple meals, managing your own schedule, or keeping your space clean.

These skills help build confidence. Over time, they make it easier for you to move toward more independent living, such as Supported Independent Living or even living on your own.

Strengthening Your Support Network

Short-Term Accommodation gives you the chance to meet new support workers, peers, and community members. It helps you connect with people outside your usual circle. It allows you to make friends during group activities and learn how to ask for help in different settings.

Furthermore, these connections can reduce isolation and give you more options for support in the future. A stronger network means more stability and more confidence in reaching your goals.

Gaining Confidence Outside Your Home

Staying somewhere new through STA helps you feel more comfortable in unfamiliar settings. You learn to adapt, speak up for yourself, and handle daily routines without relying on familiar surroundings. Hence, it helps you try new activities or visit new places. It also allows you to practice problem-solving in a different environment, even in a short period.

Evidently, each experience builds self-trust. Because the more you step outside your comfort zone, the more confident and independent you become in everyday life.

How Is STA Different from Respite?

You might hear STA called “respite.” That’s what it was often called before the NDIS. The idea is similar, though. It gives you and your carers a break. However, the NDIS focuses more on your goals.

STA isn’t just time off because it’s about building life skills, confidence, and independence. It also supports your carers. Furthermore, the short break can help them recharge and stay strong in their role.

Can You Use STA for Emergencies?

STA can be used during emergencies. However, that’s not its main purpose.

If your home becomes unsafe or your carer is suddenly unavailable, short-term stays can help bridge the gap. But this depends on provider availability and your plan.

So, always have a backup plan for urgent situations. In this case, your Support Coordinator can help build this into your overall plan.

Choosing the Right STA Option

What’s best depends on your needs. Some people enjoy the social side of group stays, while others prefer quiet, one-on-one support. It’s important that the place feels safe, welcoming, and suited to you.

You have choices when it comes to STA. You can stay in:

• Specialist STA houses or a property with support staff
• Host family and guests’ arrangements
• Hotels or serviced apartments with support
• Group stays with other NDIS participants

How to Get STA in Your NDIS Plan

To get STA funding, discuss with your planner or LAC during your plan meeting. You need to be specific about the following:

What Kind of Support Do You Need During the Stay

During your STA stay, you might need support with personal care, like showering or dressing. You could also need help with meals, medication, mobility, or getting involved in community activities.

How Often Would You Use It?

How often you use STA depends on your needs and your plan. You might use short term rental accommodation for a weekend once a month, a few days every few weeks, or during times when your usual support isn’t available.

What Goals Does It Helps You Achieve?

STA can help you achieve range of goals like building independence, learning daily living skills, or improving social connections. It can also support emotional wellbeing by giving you a break from routine and helping you feel more confident in new environments.

Cost and Budgeting

STA is usually paid at a package rate, which includes all services during your stay. It’s covered under Core Supports- Assistance with Daily Living.

This means it comes out of your flexible budget. To understand better, it’s a good idea to check with your Support Coordinator or plan manager before booking, so they can help manage the budget for the prices.

Final Thoughts

STA isn’t just about getting away. It supports both your personal goals and the people who care for you. It is for your space to grow, learn, and rest. You can think of it as a tool that you can use it to test new environments, build confidence, or simply recharge.

Whether you want to try new things or just take a well-deserved break, Short-Term Accommodation can play an important part in your NDIS journey. Make sure it fits your goals and make sure it suits your needs. And most importantly, make sure it feels right for you.

So, if you are ready to take advantage of Short-Term Accommodation under the NDIS, contact Yahweh Care for assistance. Their dedicated team of experts can help answer your questions about the process.