STA vs MTA: Short-Term and Medium-Term Accommodation

Current NDIS guidance describes short-term accommodation as support that allows a participant time apart from their usual care arrangements and supports informal carers to take a short break. It is based on the participant’s usual disability-related support needs during the stay.

The current NDIS page says STA is usually funded for up to 28 days per year and can be used flexibly, including blocks of up to 14 days at a time, subject to the participant’s plan and current rules.

MTA is designed for specific transition situations where a participant has a longer-term home outcome but cannot move into it yet. Current NDIS guidance gives examples such as waiting for SDA, waiting for home modifications, leaving hospital or transitioning from a justice setting in relevant circumstances.

The NDIS describes MTA as a one-off support that can generally be used for up to three months or 90 days. It covers the temporary accommodation itself; personal care and other supports are funded separately if required.

STA is about a short period away from usual care arrangements with disability support during the stay. MTA is a bridge while a longer-term housing arrangement is being prepared or becomes available.

Neither should be treated as general emergency housing. The participant’s my NDIS contact or support coordinator can help clarify which home and living support is relevant to the situation.

Important: This AIC Services guide is general information, not an NDIS funding decision or legal advice. Participants should check their current plan and official NDIS information for their circumstances.