Important Changes to STA

If you have made a Short Term Accommodation (STA) claim recently, you may have noticed some claims or reimbursements are being rejected by the NDIA. This is because there is a greater focus from the NDIA on what participants are claiming as Short Term Accommodation & Respite, and the information that is required for approval. 

We understand this may be causing some confusion for participants and service providers relying on timely payments. So, we’ve gathered all the key information here to help you understand the NDIA’s approach and how it may impact you.

Delays to Short Term Accommodation payments 

The NDIA have stepped up their focus to prevent fraudulant claims and ensure compliance with an updated claims review process. Now, claims will go through a revised review process before funds are released.  

While the NDIA aims to have valid claims paid within 2 to 3 business days, the reality is many claims are taking several business days to process. In some cases, claims are being held, reviewed, and sometimes denied after several weeks. 

A growing number of STA claims and reimbursements are being rejected by the NDIA, especially if seen as 'holiday' expenses. 

If you’re a customer with Plan Partners, our team will ensure we have all the necessary information and documentation before submitting your STA claim to the NDIA. 

More requests for additional info

There’s been an increase in the number of STA claims needing additional documentation to get approved. The types of information the NDIA may ask for includes:  

• A signed Service Agreement between the service provider and the participant for the dates the Short Term Accommodation occurred.  
• Confirmation of the participant's accommodation, including a booking confirmation or paid receipt. 
• Information about support worker(s) who attended the Short Term Accommodation, including their name/business name and ABN, plus the roster of hours during the stay.  
• A description of the supports provided by the support worker.  
• An outline of the activities the participant engaged in during their STA, with dates and descriptions of the activities 
• Any evidence that makes it easier for the NDIA to understand your situation and why it’s  for you to receive respite care, some of the questions we may ask to gather this information could include:  
•  
  • Is Short Term Accommodation stated in your current plan?
  • What is the purpose of Short Term Accommodation and how does it support your goals? 
  • If you are using 1:1 supports, can you let us know the reason?
  • If you don’t need a support worker, can you let us know the reason? 
  • Does the Short Term Accommodation represent value for money? (e.g. luxury hotels vs reasonable accommodation)
  • If you created your own Short Term Accommodation rather than using a provider, can you share why?  
    Note: We recommend working with a Short Term Accommodation provider to ensure your stay meets the NDIA guidelines.   

Tips for managing STA spending and claims 

Remember, STA isn’t for holidays

New Resources

Make sure you take a look at the STA Services & Support Care Plan we released to assist you with these changes.