The following information is to provide you with examples of what the NDIS may fund. It’s important to note that this is only a guide. The NDIS considers requests based on whether the support is related to your disability and whether it meets the NDIS Reasonable and Necessary Guidelines.
It’s important to note that this is a guiding tool to assist you to make an informed decision. Only a NDIS delegate or explicit written information in a current NDIS plan is the source of truth.
Is this funded by the NDIS?
Yes, the NDIS funds Short Term Accommodation (STA), including respite, when it is included in your plan. STA funding covers the cost of care and support, accommodation, food, and activities for up to 28 days per calendar year (which can be used flexibly, for example, 14 days at a time or one weekend a month). This is outlined in the Supports that are NDIS Supports PDF (p.6).
Why is it funded?
STA provides:
- Respite for carers
- An opportunity for you to build independence, social skills, and daily living skills in a different environment
- Support to pursue your goals for community participation and personal development
NDIA Requirements
- ⚠️ Must include support services. STA is not funded as only accommodation – it must include personal care or support to meet your disability-related needs during the stay. STA is not for funding a holiday
- ⚠️ Must relate to your goals. The funding must help you pursue a goal in your NDIS plan, such as building independence or improving social participation.
- ⚠️ Used as a short-term solution. STA is for temporary support and not for long-term housing needs.
- ⚠️ Cost effectiveness. The NDIS considers if STA is a more cost-effective option compared to alternative supports.
- ⚠️ Cannot duplicate other funded supports. If you have funding for SIL or ILO, STA cannot be used to replace those services.
- ⚠️ Not for crisis accommodation. STA is not intended for crisis accommodation. If you are at risk of homelessness, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 44.
What’s next?
If STA is included in your plan, you can proceed with booking your stay with a registered STA provider.
If STA is not included in your plan, speak with your My NDIS Contact or Support Coordinator to discuss your goals and provide evidence to request written NDIA approval.
Participant Responsibilities
NDIS participants play a key role in managing their supports responsibly. Here’s what participants need to know:
| Responsibility | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 🎯 Know Your Goals | Ensure any support purchased helps achieve goals in your NDIS plan. |
| 💰 Understand Budget Categories | Each category has rules about what you can use funds for. |
| 📜 Be Aware of Stated Supports | Some plans include exact supports – others are more flexible but must still meet NDIS guidelines. |
| ⏳ Know Your Funding Periods | Be aware of how your funding is spread across the life of your plan. |
| ✅ Spend in Line with the Plan | Supports must meet the NDIS Reasonable and Necessary criteria. |
👉 If you're unsure whether a support is claimable, speak with your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator.
How to Get a Support Funded by the NDIS
To explore whether a support may be funded:
- Check your NDIS plan goals and categories.
- Consider how the support relates to your disability and functional capacity.
- Discuss with your Support Coordinator or My NDIS Contact for advice.
For more information, visit:
👉 Kismet Healthcare – NDIS Supports
👉 NDIS Operational Guidelines