Updates to Short Term Accommodation
The NDIS has announced an update to the name of the support, changing it from “Short Term Accommodation” to “Short Term Respite.”
This new name better reflects what the support actually does: giving participants and their main support people some time apart.
This allows carers, family members, or friends to take a break and rest.
Although some people in the community are not sure about the word “respite,” it is well-known and understood by carers.
After considering all the opinions, the National Disability Insurance Agency decided that “short term respite” is the best term to describe this kind of support.
What Short Term Respite Is For
Short term respite is for participants who live with or get daily help from their informal supports.
For children, this support is only available when the child’s disability needs are more than what is usual for their age, and when the support helps the family keep caring effectively.
This support is not for people who already have a lot of paid support, such as Supported Independent Living, or for general activities like holidays or going to events.
Instead, short term respite provides a clean, comfortable place (which could be at home, in a hotel, a cabin, or another suitable place) where the participant continues to receive the same level of support they usually receive at home.
Your Options for Seeking More Funding
Participants have the choice and control of how they use this support.
It is flexible and comes from the core budget. It can be used for up to 28 days a year, with a maximum of 14 days at a time, depending on what the person needs and their plan funding.
To learn more, the NDIS Short Term Respite Guideline has been updated with more details.
It explains:
- who can use short term respite
- what it includes
- how and where it can be used
- how decisions are made
If you are unsure about whether you are eligible or how to include short term respite in your plan, contact your my NDIS for guidance and support.