Therapeutic Supports

Accommodation and tenancy support are crucial components of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), offering individuals with disabilities the resources needed to secure and maintain suitable housing. This support helps individuals live independently, while ensuring they have access to the appropriate accommodations that meet their personal needs and goals. The NDIS provides funding to assist in the creation of a stable, safe, and supportive living environment, allowing individuals to thrive in their community.

Types of Accommodation Support

The NDIS provides various accommodation supports based on the specific needs of the individual. These supports can include:

1. Short-Term Accommodation (STA) Short-Term Accommodation offers temporary support and housing, typically for up to 28 days per year. It is designed to provide a break for both the individual and their primary caregivers. STA funding is flexible and can be used in blocks of up to 14 days or spread over several weekends throughout the year. It includes assistance with daily living, meals, personal care, and the opportunity to engage in new activities, helping individuals to refresh and pursue personal goals.

2. Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA) Medium-Term Accommodation is available for individuals who need transitional accommodation for a period of more than 28 days but less than 12 months. MTA is typically for individuals awaiting a more permanent housing solution or those who require additional time to adjust to new living arrangements. The NDIS funds MTA when it supports individuals in maintaining independence and improving functional capacity during the transitional period.

3. Long-Term Accommodation Long-term accommodation covers stable, ongoing housing needs for individuals with disabilities. The NDIS does not directly cover the cost of rent or long-term living expenses. However, it may assist with modifications or supports needed to make a long-term home suitable for the individual’s needs. This could include accessibility modifications, assistive technologies, or personal care supports within the home.

NDIS Funding for Accommodation

The NDIS funds accommodation support under the “Core Support” and “Capacity Building Support” categories, which ensure that individuals have access to the necessary resources to live independently and participate in community life. Funding for accommodation-related needs may include:

• Assistance with Daily Living: Support to manage daily tasks, personal care, and household chores to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.
• Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA): For individuals with high support needs who require specialized housing that is appropriately designed to support their unique needs. SDA funding helps with the cost of suitable accommodations, including accessible features and assistive technologies.
• Tenancy and Housing Support: Assistance with navigating the tenancy process, securing rental agreements, and ensuring long-term housing stability. This may also include advocacy support to help individuals communicate with landlords or housing authorities.

Securing Accommodation Support in Your NDIS Plan

Accommodation support may not always be automatically included in an individual’s NDIS plan. However, individuals can request this support if it aligns with their goals and needs. To include accommodation and tenancy support, you may need to:

1. Discuss with your NDIS Planner or Local Area Coordinator: If accommodation support is not included in your current plan, you can request an update or adjustment to include the necessary funding.
2. Provide Documentation: Depending on your circumstances, evidence of your support needs, such as medical or personal care requirements, may be needed to demonstrate eligibility for accommodation support.

When STA or MTA Is Not Funded

It’s important to note that the NDIS does not fund accommodation in all situations. Funding will not be provided for:

• Rent or daily living expenses: The NDIS does not cover regular housing costs or rent.
• Accommodation for reasons not related to disability: If accommodation is needed for reasons unrelated to disability support needs, such as personal preferences or housing crises, other support systems or organizations should be consulted.
• Temporary housing for reasons like home modifications: If accommodation is needed while home modifications are being carried out, the NDIS may not fund this temporary accommodation unless it is directly related to the individual’s disability.

Contact Us for Assistance

If you are looking for support with accommodation or tenancy under the NDIS, or if you are unsure about what kind of funding you may be eligible for, contact us today. We are here to help guide you through the process, assist in adjusting your NDIS plan, and connect you with the right services to secure the best possible accommodation for your needs.