NDIS announces changes to STA
The eligibility criteria for using Short-Term Accommodation (STA) funding have changed significantly since October 3, 2024. While the official NDIS guidelines have yet to be updated, the NDIS Commission has clarified these changes on their FAQs site.
The key change is that STA is now primarily intended as a respite service for informal supports. As a result, many participants—especially those in Supported Independent Living (SIL) arrangements or living alone—are no longer eligible to use STA for supported camps or social getaways.
🔗 For more details, refer to the NDIS FAQs on Legislative Changes
What This Means for Your Travel Options
If you previously used STA funding to access your services, here’s what you need to know:
✅ If STA is approved in your plan:
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Your funding may cover accommodation and meal costs for an eligible short-term break.
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NDIS will continue to cover support hours under STA, but this must align with your plan goals.
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If STA is a stated item in your plan and you have informal supports, you will still need formal written pre-approval from the NDIS and/or your Plan Manager confirming they approve the use of this funding for this purpose.
❌ If STA funding is not approved:
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You will need to pay for accommodation, meals, and activities privately.
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NDIS may still cover eligible support hours, but this varies based on your individual plan and destination.
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If post-service STA funding is rejected, you may be personally responsible for the remaining costs.
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STA approvals are now very rare, and most applications are declined unless the need for respite is clearly documented.
📌 We strongly recommend discussing your funding options with your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager. Some participants have still been able to access STA where justified under their NDIS plan goals, but approvals are not guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use STA funding for travel or social group camps?
STA funding is now only available for respite purposes and is not intended for travel, social camps, or holidays. If STA is not explicitly pre-approved, you will need to self-fund accommodation and meals, while NDIS may still cover eligible support hours.
What if I need to travel far from home?
NDIS does not cover transport costs for travel to STA accommodation. If you wish to attend a getaway or travel further, transport costs will need to be self-funded.
Can STA be used for holidays?
No. The NDIS does not fund holidays or tourism-related travel. STA is only available where it provides respite for informal supports. This means:
❌ No funding for flights, cruises, holiday accommodation, or travel packages.
❌ No funding for entertainment, theme parks, or event tickets.
✅ If you require support while on holiday (except internationally), you may use other NDIS support funding (not STA).
I live in SIL. Can I still use STA?
No. Participants in Supported Independent Living (SIL) or living alone are not eligible for STA under the new guidelines. This is because these participants already receive ongoing support and do not require respite from informal carers.
What happens if my STA claim is rejected after the service?
If you do not have formal pre-approval from NDIS or your Plan Manager and the claim is denied post-service, you will be personally responsible for covering all outstanding costs. We highly recommend getting written confirmation before using STA funding.
What are my options if STA is not approved?
If you are not eligible for STA, you may still participate in our supported group programs and getaways but will need to privately cover accommodation, meals, and activity costs.
