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Support Coordinators connect NDIS participants with the right accommodation providers for Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA) and Short Term Respite (STR). This guide walks through how those referrals work, from assessment to ongoing review.
MTA and STR basics
Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be a complex journey, especially for participants who need help with Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA) and Short Term Respite (STR). Both are support categories under the NDIS that offer participants temporary accommodation and support – whether for a holiday, respite, or a time when their primary carer or usual support system is unavailable.
| Category | Typical length | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| MTA (Medium-Term Accommodation) | Longer than 7 days, up to 90 days | Participants needing accommodation and support over an extended period, such as a holiday or to give a regular carer a break. |
| Short Term Respite (STR) | Shorter stays, usually up to 14 days | Participants needing temporary accommodation and support for reasons including respite and crisis situations. |
For a fuller breakdown of how these sit alongside other NDIS accommodation types, see our guide to STR vs SIL vs MTA.
The Support Coordinator’s role
Support Coordinators are professionals who work closely with NDIS participants to help them identify their goals, access the services and supports they need, and manage their NDIS plans effectively. When it comes to MTA and STR referrals, Support Coordinators play a critical role in connecting participants with suitable providers.
Why it matters: A well-matched referral takes the participant’s location, specific needs and preferences into account, so the stay genuinely fits their goals.
Steps in the referral process
1. Participant assessment
The journey begins with a comprehensive assessment of the participant’s unique needs and goals. Support Coordinators work closely with participants to understand their requirements, preferences, and the duration of accommodation needed.
2. Identifying service providers
Once the assessment is complete, Support Coordinators draw on their knowledge of the NDIS network to identify providers offering MTA and STR. They factor in the participant’s location, specific needs and any preferences.
3. Accessing the NDIS portal
Support Coordinators access the NDIS portal to explore registered service providers, reviewing provider profiles, the services offered and participant reviews to gauge suitability.
4. Consulting with the participant
Open and transparent communication with the participant matters throughout the process. Support Coordinators collaborate with participants to shortlist potential providers and gather feedback.
5. Negotiating service agreements
Once a participant has chosen a preferred MTA or STR provider, Support Coordinators help negotiate the service agreement, making sure the participant’s goals and support needs are clearly outlined.
6. Plan implementation
Support Coordinators help participants put their MTA or STR plan into action. This involves coordinating transport, communicating with the provider, and addressing any concerns or modifications that arise.
7. Monitoring and review
After the service begins, Support Coordinators continue to monitor progress and conduct regular reviews, so the participant’s goals are met and any necessary adjustments are made.
A collaborative approach
Assisting Support Coordinator referrals for MTA and STR requires close collaboration between Support Coordinators, participants and service providers. This collaboration ensures the participant’s unique needs are met and that they have a positive experience during their stay.
It helps when participants actively engage with their Support Coordinator and communicate their preferences and expectations clearly. This lets Support Coordinators make more informed referrals and ensure the participant’s MTA or STR experience aligns with their goals.
Across the whole process – careful assessment, identifying suitable providers, transparent communication, negotiating service agreements and ongoing support – a collaborative approach helps participants access the accommodation and support they need, enhancing their overall NDIS experience and quality of life. With the guidance of a dedicated Support Coordinator, participants can make informed decisions and take a break, explore new experiences, or receive support during challenging times.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between MTA and STR?
MTA (Medium-Term Accommodation) is generally for stays longer than 7 days and up to 90 days, suited to extended periods. Short Term Respite (STR) is for shorter stays, usually up to 14 days, and covers respite and crisis situations.
Do I need a Support Coordinator to arrange respite?
Not necessarily, but a Support Coordinator can make the process easier by assessing your needs, identifying suitable providers, helping negotiate service agreements, and reviewing how the stay is going.
How does a Support Coordinator choose a provider?
They review registered providers through the NDIS portal, considering the participant’s location, specific needs and preferences, then shortlist options with the participant and gather feedback before proceeding.
Looking to arrange a respite stay?
Tell us about the participant’s needs and dates and we will help from there.
Send a booking inquiry