Understanding the NDIS Price Limits for STA and MTA

Short-term accommodation (STA) and Medium-term accommodation (MTA) are important services in the NDIS that offer vital support and flexible housing options for people with disabilities. On this page, you’ll learn everything you need to know about STA and MTA price limits under the NDIS, why they matter, how funding is managed, who is eligible, different providers, and how you can make the most of these supports. [object Object]

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What are STA and MTA under the NDIS?

Short-Term Accommodation (STA):
STA is sometimes referred to as respite. It offers a temporary stay away from home for people with disabilities, usually up to 14 days at a time. During an STA stay, participants receive support with daily living, support coordination, personal care, community engagement, and may take part in group activities.
[object Object] It’s designed to provide both a break for carers and new experiences/environment for the participant.

Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA):
[object Object] MTA is designed for participants who need somewhere to live temporarily (generally up to 90 days) while waiting for a long-term housing solution—such as waiting for a home modification, a Supported Independent Living (SIL) placement, or a Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) vacancy. MTA is not emergency accommodation, but a planned step in the housing journey.

Why are Price Limits for STA and MTA Important?

[object Object] NDIS price limits ensure value for money and that providers charge fair, consistent rates while maintaining high standards of disability support. Limits protect participants from being overcharged and help with budgeting their NDIS funds effectively. Price caps are set and updated annually by the NDIA in the official NDIS Price Guide (now referred to as the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits).

How to Access and Use STA/MTA Funding

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1. Eligibility and Plan Inclusion:

   • Funding for STA and MTA must be included in your NDIS plan, usually under Core Supports (Assistance with Daily Living).
   • Funding is generally flexible, allowing participants to choose how to use these supports based on their needs. [object Object]

2. Engaging Providers:

   • Search for NDIS-registered STA/MTA accommodation providers. [object Object]
   • Providers must charge within set NDIS price limits unless the participant is self-managing their funds (in which case, prices are negotiable).

3. Booking and Agreements:
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   • Discuss with providers about included supports (meals, personal care, activities, community participation).
   • Make sure a written agreement is in place specifying the duration, inclusions, and costs.

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Price Caps: What Are the NDIS Price Limits for STA and MTA?

As of the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (July 2023–June 2024):

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Short-Term Accommodation (STA)

• Price limit for STA (including respite):
  • Standard support ratio (1:1): $1,844.80 per 24 hours*
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  • Lower/higher support ratios and specific circumstances may have different rates.
• What’s included:
  Accommodation, assistance with self-care, food, and activities. [object Object]

Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA)

• MTA daily limit:
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  • Up to $167 per day (as of 2023/24 guidelines)
• What’s included:
  Accommodation cost only. Daily living supports are funded separately through your Core Supports budget. [object Object]

Please note: Actual rates may change with the NDIA’s annual price review. Always check the official NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits for the latest rates.

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How Does STA/MTA Work in the Context of Australian Migration?

STA and MTA are available to eligible NDIS participants regardless of visa or migration status, provided they meet the NDIS access requirements (including residency, age, and disability criteria).
Key Points: [object Object]

• Permanent residents and eligible special category visa holders can access the NDIS and therefore qualify for STA/MTA funding.
• Temporary visa holders and those without permanent residency generally are not eligible for NDIS.
• Individuals navigating migration and disability can benefit from support coordination and advocacy to transition into NDIS and access appropriate housing supports. [object Object]

Key Benefits and Features of STA and MTA

STA Benefits: [object Object]

• Provides planned or emergency respite for families/carers.
• New experiences and social interaction for participants.
• Ready-made support with meals, activities, personal care. [object Object]
• Flexibility—can be block-booked or used in single nights, up to 28 days per year as standard.

MTA Benefits: [object Object]

• Safe, stable stopgap housing while awaiting a long-term living arrangement.
• Reduced risk of inappropriate placements (e.g., aged care for young people).
• Support for transitions—hospital discharge, home modifications, or between supports. [object Object]

Other Features:

• NDIS funding for STA/MTA is paid to registered providers. [object Object]
• Supports can be tailored based on age, disability, preferences.
• Providers must meet NDIS Quality and Safeguards standards.

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Common Professions and Professionals Involved

• Support Coordinators: Help participants arrange STA/MTA stays, find providers, and secure funding.
• NDIS Planners and Local Area Coordinators (LACs): Approve funding for accommodation supports in plans. [object Object]
• Accommodation Providers: Registered NDIS organisations or disability service providers who run STA/MTA facilities.
• Allied Health Professionals: May recommend or support applications for STA/MTA as part of broader support planning.

[object Object] Example: A support coordinator assists a participant after hospital discharge by helping them use MTA funding while a home modification is underway.

Common Challenges and Solutions

[object Object] Challenge: Difficulty finding available STA/M