Finding the right place to live, even temporarily, becomes crucial when unexpected changes or life transitions occur. For NDIS participants, Medium Term Accommodation offers a supportive solution during times of transition. In this guide, we’ll cover Medium Term Accommodation—eligibility requirements, funding criteria, what support is available, and how to access them. What Is Medium Term Accommodation (MTA)? Medium Term Accommodation is a funded support offered through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) that provides a temporary place to live while you wait for your longer-term housing solution to be ready. It is designed to ensure you are not left without a safe and accessible place to stay during this waiting period. Typically, the NDIS funds MTA for a maximum of 90 days. This accommodation is not a permanent solution; instead, it offers essential support during transitional life stages. Medium Term Accommodation is most often used when: You have been approved for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), but it is still under construction. You wait for the completion of home modifications. Your long-term home arrangements are delayed for reasons outside your control. You have been discharged from the hospital and need somewhere to live temporarily until a more appropriate home is ready. You are transitioning from aged care to more suitable accommodation. Note : It’s important to know that while MTA covers the cost of housing, it does not include everyday living expenses such as food, internet, or personal care supports. These are funded separately through your NDIS plan if you’re eligible. Who Is Eligible for Medium Term Accommodation? Not all NDIS participants are automatically eligible for Medium Term Accommodation. You need to meet certain requirements to qualify: You have a clear long-term living arrangement that will soon be ready. You need temporary accommodation due to situations that are outside your control. Your need for MTA is directly linked to your disability-related support requirements. The NDIS considers requests for MTA funding on a case-by-case basis, assessing if the support is reasonable and necessary to help you pursue your goals and maintain your living situation. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, speaking with your Support Coordinator, Planner, or Local Area Coordinator can help clarify your options and next steps. How Does Medium Term Accommodation Meet NDIS Funding Criteria? For MTA to be included in your NDIS plan, it must meet the following key criteria: Reasonable and necessary : It should be essential for you to access this support because of your disability. Directly related to your disability : Your need for temporary accommodation should be a result of your disability, not just general housing needs. Not more appropriately funded by another service : MTA should not replace services typically funded by other government systems (e.g., mainstream housing services). The NDIS ensures that funding for MTA aligns with its broader goal—to enable participants to live safely and independently while waiting for their permanent housing arrangements. How Much Funding Does the NDIS Provide for MTA? The funding for Medium Term Accommodation is designed to cover the cost of a reasonable and necessary housing solution for almost 90 days. The NDIS typically funds MTA at a similar rate to SDA benchmark pricing, depending on the level of support and housing type you require. However, the actual amount funded may vary based on individual circumstances. It's important to remember that MTA funding only covers the accommodation itself, not the costs of daily living supports like meals, utilities, transport, or personal care. These are funded separately, often through your Core Supports budget. In some cases, if there are exceptional circumstances or delays outside your control, funding may be extended, but this must be requested and justified clearly through your plan review or reassessment. How Do You Get Medium Term Accommodation in Your NDIS Plan? If you believe you need Medium Term Accommodation, the first step is to discuss it with your NDIS Planner, Local Area Coordinator, or Support Coordinator. You will typically need to: Explain why you need temporary accommodation. Provide evidence that you have a confirmed permanent housing solution that’s not immediately available (e.g., confirmation that your SDA is under construction or that home modifications are underway). Outline how MTA will help you achieve your NDIS goals. Supporting documentation, such as letters from builders, home modification contractors, hospitals, or disability housing providers, can strengthen your case for MTA funding. If the NDIS agrees that MTA is reasonable and necessary, they will include it in your plan as a separate support item. From there, you can work with registered NDIS providers to arrange suitable accommodation that meets your needs. Why Medium Term Accommodation Matters? Having access to Medium Term Accommodation can be life-changing for NDIS participants. It ensures you are not left in unsafe or unsuitable living environments simply because your long-term housing isn’t ready. It provides stability, reduces the risk of unnecessary hospital stays, and supports your ongoing independence and wellbeing. By funding MTA, the NDIS shows its dedication to providing flexible support options that align with the real-world timelines and challenges experienced by participants. For families and carers, MTA also offers peace of mind, knowing that their loved ones have a safe place to live while they transition to their permanent home. Is Medium Term Accommodation Right for You? If you're an NDIS participant waiting for your permanent home to become available, Medium Term Accommodation can bridge the gap and ensure you have a safe, supportive place to stay. However, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria, the funding rules, and the process of getting it added to your NDIS plan. Discussing your situation early with your support team and gathering all necessary documentation will make the process smoother. If you feel unsure at any point, don’t hesitate to seek advice or reach out to your locally registered NDIS provider. Find MTA Support with Leah Bett Nursing Services At Leah Bett Nursing Services, we understand how important safe, supportive accommodation is when you’re navigating life transitions. That’s why we proudly offer trusted Short Term and Medium Term Accommodation options tailored for NDIS participants. Our team provides a caring, comfortable environment while you wait for your long-term living arrangements to be ready. Ready to take the next step toward secure and supportive temporary housing? Contact Leah Bett Nursing Services today and let us help you find the perfect Medium Term Accommodation to suit your journey!