Recent NDIS Changes to Short Term Accommodation
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has recently revised what is included in Short Term Accommodation (STA) funding. While the duration remains up to 28 days per calendar year (if not explicitly stated on the plan), the NDIS has made several significant changes to what is covered under standard STA funding:
Changes in STA funding and process:
- Meals and Food: Unlike previous arrangements, meals and food are no longer automatically included in all STA allowances. While some group homes continue to include meals in their service offering, other accommodation providers may require participants to budget separately for their dining needs during their stay. It’s important to check with your specific provider about their meal policy. For participants undertaking STA in an individual setting, meals will be at the expense of the participant.
- Parking: Parking policies vary by provider. Some accommodation facilities include parking in their overall price, while others may charge an additional fee. It’s important to note that if there is an extra cost for parking, it typically won’t be covered by NDIS funding. Please inquire about parking availability and any associated costs when booking your short-term accommodation.
- Activities and Excursions: Recreational activities and excursions that were previously part of STA funding are now not included in the line item for those undertaking STA in an individual setting. Some group homes will still provide activities as part of their service offering.
- Overnight Support Accommodation: The NDIS now requires separate funding if you need a room for your overnight support worker. This will incur out-of-pocket expenses not covered in the standard accommodation fee.
- Transportation: The NDIS has advised that participants who travel “far from home” must pay for their own transportation to and from the STA. Transportation costs for participants who are moving between the STA facility and activities may still be covered.
- Informal Carer: Please note that informal carers who typically live with the participant are unable to accompany the participant during the respite stay.
- Emergency Accommodation: Please note that emergency accommodation is classified differently from STA and typically cannot be claimed using your STA funding line item. If you require emergency accommodation, please contact your support coordinator to discuss alternative funding options.
- Timeframe: We recommend that all STA enquiries are submitted at least 48-72 hours before the proposed start of the stay. This is to ensure that all stakeholders including MediStays, the support coordinator and plan managers can achieve the best outcome.
Changes to Some New NDIS Plans for Short Term Accommodation
The NDIS has also implemented changes to how Short Term Accommodation appears in some new plans. For these specific plans, the NDIS may list STA with the following conditions:
- Some NDIS plans explicitly state the exact number of days allocated for respite/STA and the support ratio (e.g. 1 to 3) that typically STA under these plans must be delivered in a group environment setting.
We recommend you check your plan carefully for these conditions and speak to your support co-ordinator or plan manager for their advice about your circumstance.
Flexible Booking Solutions for All Participants
We understand that NDIS funding situations can vary. MediStays offers flexible payment options to accommodate different circumstances:
- NDIS-funded stays: Direct payment via your Plan Manager through your NDIS plan. For self-managed participants, direct payment from you which can then be reimbursed to your account via the NDIS portal.
- Credit card bookings: Convenient option for those without NDIS funding or awaiting plan approval and still needing respite.
- Split payment options: Ideal for booking additional rooms and services not covered by NDIS funding (e.g., carer bedroom and meals).
Our Care Navigators will help you to determine the best payment approach for your specific situation.
Need More Information?
For any questions or to discuss how these NDIS changes might affect your specific situation, please contact our Care Navigators on 1300 085 036 or contact@medistays.com.au
1300 085 036