Understanding the Latest NDIS Changes to Respite Care and Short-Term Accommodation (STA) in 2024

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has recently updated its Respite Care and Short-Term Accommodation (STA) policies to enhance support quality and flexibility for participants and their families. Here's what you need to know:

Understanding Respite Care and STA under NDIS

Respite Care and STA offer temporary care solutions for individuals with disabilities, providing opportunities for new experiences while giving carers essential downtime. These services can range from a day to a few weeks and include personal care, daily activity support, and access to social or recreational programs. Typically, STA is funded for up to 14 consecutive days at a time, with an annual limit of 28 days, serving as a crucial resource for participants and their carers.

Key Updates to NDIS Short-Term Accommodation (STA)

The recent changes aim to clarify the use of STA funding, ensuring it continues to provide meaningful respite and promote independence.

Eligibility Adjustments

Participants in Supported Independent Living (SIL) or those living alone are generally not eligible for STA funding, as SIL already offers time apart from carers. STA is now explicitly intended to provide informal carers with respite rather than solely focusing on building participants' skills or independence.

Funding Specifications

STA funding typically covers group support settings. Accessing individual support through STA requires substantial evidence of necessity. Providers may include meals and activities in group settings in the daily rate, whereas such bundled extras are not included in particular settings.

Clarification on Coverage

STA funding supports services like personal care, group or individual accommodation, and meals or activities in group settings. However, it does not cover everyday expenses such as groceries, non-NDIS activities like cruises or theme parks, or meals in individual settings.

Transportation Exclusions

Expenses like flights or transport to and from the accommodation are excluded from STA funding. If choosing STA far from home, it's essential to budget for these costs separately.

Purpose Specification

STA is not intended for holidays. Funding is provided only for disability needs, such as respite care or skill development.

Looking Ahead

The NDIS plans to release further updates in December 2024 to address areas like the use of hotel stays or non-traditional accommodations under STA. Notably, STA remains part of the Core Support category, meaning it can be explicitly listed outside of participant plans to be accessed.

Navigating the Updates

To effectively adapt to these new guidelines:

Plan Ahead

Incorporate respite needs into plan reviews to adequately address them.

Seek Transparency

Request detailed service agreements from providers to understand the care offered.

Stay Informed

Keep up-to-date with future NDIS announcements and updates to maximise available support.

A Positive Step Forward

These updates signify a positive move towards more inclusive and participant-centered support, enhanced flexibility, raised provider standards, and a focus on community integration. The goal is to ensure that respite care remains a vital and accessible service for individuals with disabilities and their families.

For personalized advice and support, contact Hand in Hand Support Coordination. We are here to help you navigate these changes and ensure you achieve the best outcomes for your situation.