What is STA/Respite?
Short Term Accommodation (STA), also known as Respite, is a type of support under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) that allows participants to live away from home for a short period. This support is typically provided to give participants or their primary caregivers a break, or when the participant’s usual support network is temporarily unavailable. However, it can be complex to determine eligibility and organize this support within an NDIS plan.
What STA is Not?
STA is explicitly not a holiday. The NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) makes a clear distinction between STA and holidays. Funding for STA should not be used for activities that are purely recreational or considered as a holiday.
What STA Is?
STA involves support where a participant needs to stay out of home temporarily. It is generally available for up to 28 days per calendar year, with a recommended maximum of 14 consecutive days. The use of STA must align with the participant’s disability-related needs or plan goals. The primary reasons for using STA include:
- Providing respite for the participant and/or their primary caregivers.
- Situations where the usual support network is temporarily unavailable.
- Opportunities for the participant to make new friends or develop new skills.
- Maintaining the participant’s functional capacity.
The NDIA uses the link between STA activities and the participant’s goals to differentiate between STA and holidays. Activities must relate to the participant’s disability or plan goals to qualify as STA.
How STA Can Be Funded
Due to the complexities of STA funding, it is often recommended to use a dedicated STA/Respite agency. These agencies handle all aspects of STA, including arranging, organizing, and invoicing. They ensure compliance with NDIS rules, and their single invoice covers activities, personal care, accommodation, and food.
If using an STA agency is not suitable, participants can work with their support workers and support coordinators to organize STA. In these cases, it is recommended to:
- Combine all STA expenses into a single invoice or a single invoice per day.
- Pre-pay for all accommodation, supports, food, and activities, and include receipts with the invoice.
- Ensure all expenses fit within the maximum price limit for a 24-hour period of STA supports.
STA funding is drawn from the flexible Assistance with Daily Life budget within the Core category of the participant’s plan. It is essential to meet the Reasonable & Necessary criteria to justify the use of STA.
Can STA Be Used in a Crisis Situation?
STA is not intended for housing crisis solutions. However, if a crisis occurs and regular carers are unable to provide care, STA may be appropriate for a limited time. Long-term housing solutions should be discussed with the participant’s COS (Coordinator of Supports) or Planner and may be covered under Medium Term Accommodation (MTA).
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