Medium Term Accommodation in NDIS: A Smart Interim Solution While You Wait for SDA or SIL

When navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), understanding the different accommodation options available can be overwhelming. Among these, Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) serves a critical role for NDIS participants who need a safe, supportive, and temporary place to stay while they wait for their Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) or Supported Independent Living (SIL) to become available. In this blog post, we'll explain what MTA is, who it's for, how it works, and how you can access Medium Term Accommodation under your NDIS plan. We’ll also cover how Caring Arms, a trusted provider of disability supports in Australia, can help you find MTA that meets your needs while ensuring a smooth transition to SDA or SIL.

What is Medium Term Accommodation (MTA)?

Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) is a temporary housing solution funded by the NDIS. It is designed for participants who are waiting for their long-term housing solution to become available. You can learn more about how it works on the NDIS Medium Term Accommodation page. Key Features of MTA:

• Temporary Duration: Up to 90 days of funding (can be extended in exceptional cases).

• NDIS Funded: Covers the cost of housing only (not daily living supports or personal care).

• Flexible Options: Available across various settings, from individual units to shared accommodations.

• Safe & Accessible: Designed to be disability-friendly and provide a safe living environment.

MTA ensures that NDIS participants aren’t left in a vulnerable situation while they’re waiting for their ideal housing arrangements to be finalised. It bridges the gap between hospital discharges, transition from aged care, or in-between long-term housing plans.

Why MTA is Important in the NDIS Journey

There are multiple scenarios where Medium Term Accommodation becomes a critical support:

• Waiting for SDA Approval or Construction Many NDIS participants apply for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). However, approval processes or construction of an SDA property may take time. MTA provides a temporary solution during this waiting period.

• Transitioning to Supported Independent Living (SIL) Setting up a SIL arrangement involves assessments, choosing the right provider, and setting up daily support services. While these are being arranged, MTA can provide a secure environment.

• Exiting Hospital or Aged Care Facilities When someone is ready to be discharged from a hospital or aged care facility but their long-term housing isn’t ready, MTA can be a crucial interim solution.

• Crisis or Emergency Situations In cases of family breakdown, abuse, or unsafe living conditions, MTA provides a safe space for individuals to stay temporarily while a permanent arrangement is coordinated.

How is Medium Term Accommodation Different from Other NDIS Housing Options?

Understanding the differences between MTA, SDA, SIL, and Short Term Accommodation (STA) is key to choosing the right support:

Accommodation Type	Duration	Purpose	Funded by NDIS?	Covers Support Services?
MTA	Up to 90 days	Interim housing	✅ Yes	❌ No
SDA	Long-term	High support needs	✅ Yes	❌ No
SIL	Long-term	Daily living supports	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
STA (Respite)	Up to 14 days	Short breaks/respite	✅ Yes	✅ Yes

MTA is not meant to be a permanent housing solution, but it’s an essential part of the NDIS housing pathway.

Who is Eligible for MTA under the NDIS?

To be eligible for MTA funding, participants must meet certain criteria. MTA is not automatically included in every NDIS plan—it must be requested and justified during planning or review meetings. MTA Eligibility Criteria:

• You’re approved or waiting for SDA funding.

• You’re transitioning into a SIL arrangement.

• You’re being discharged from hospital or aged care.

• You’re at risk due to unsafe housing, homelessness, or family breakdown.

• You have no suitable place to stay while your long-term accommodation is being arranged.

Your NDIS Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) can help you gather the necessary documents to support your request for MTA funding.

What Does MTA Funding Cover?

The NDIS funds the cost of housing under MTA, but not support workers or daily living expenses. MTA Funding Covers:

• Rent or accommodation fees for up to 90 days

• Fully furnished, accessible accommodation

• Disability-friendly features (e.g., ramps, accessible bathrooms)

MTA Funding Does Not Cover:

• Meals

• Personal care

• Transportation

• Daily support staff (these may be funded separately under your Core Supports or SIL funding)

How to Apply for Medium Term Accommodation in Your NDIS Plan

Accessing MTA starts with a conversation during your NDIS planning or plan review meeting. Here’s how the process typically works:

• Identify the Need Your current living situation must be unsuitable or unsafe, or you must be transitioning to SDA or SIL.

• Gather Supporting Evidence Provide documentation such as:

• Hospital discharge letters

• SDA approval letters

• Reports from OTs, doctors, or support coordinators

• Crisis situation statements

• Update Your NDIS Plan Ask your NDIS planner to include MTA funding in your plan under the Capital Supports budget.

• Choose a Registered MTA Provider Work with an NDIS-registered provider like Caring Arms to find suitable accommodation near you.

• Move In and Begin the Transition Process Once your MTA is approved and accommodation is secured, you can begin your stay while coordinating your next steps.

Using MTA While You Wait for SDA or SIL

If you’ve been approved for SDA or SIL, but your long-term home isn’t available yet, MTA can act as the perfect transition. Tips for Using MTA Effectively:

• Start the SDA/SIL setup early: It may take months to secure a suitable property or roster of support.

• Keep in touch with your provider: Regular updates ensure your MTA stay is still aligned with your housing timeline.

• Work with your support coordinator: They’ll help you transition smoothly, avoiding gaps in housing or services.

• Choose an MTA close to your future SDA/SIL location: This helps ease the transition and lets you get familiar with the area.

Why Choose Caring Arms for Your Medium Term Accommodation Needs?

At Caring Arms, we understand the importance of stable, safe, and respectful housing during times of transition. We’re committed to supporting NDIS participants with high-quality Medium Term Accommodation options across Australia. What Sets Us Apart:

• NDIS-Registered Provider: Trusted, experienced, and fully compliant.

• Accessible Housing Options: Thoughtfully designed to meet a wide range of needs.

• Personalised Support Coordination: We help you navigate MTA, SIL, and SDA processes smoothly.

• Fast & Flexible Placement: We work quickly to get you into a safe, comfortable space.

• Integrated Healthcare Support: Through our healthcare partners, we can help coordinate personal care, nursing, or allied health services as needed.

Final Thoughts

Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) is a vital part of the NDIS framework, offering a secure and stable temporary home for people with disability who are in housing limbo. Whether you're transitioning to SDA, setting up SIL, or recovering from a hospital stay, MTA can make the journey safer and less stressful. If you're looking for reliable, accessible, and supportive MTA in Australia, Caring Arms is here to help. We’re passionate about supporting NDIS participants through every step of their housing journey, ensuring they feel empowered, independent, and cared for.

Need Help with Medium Term Accommodation?

Contact Caring Arms today to learn more about our MTA options and how we can support you in your transition to long-term housing. 👉 Visit www.caringarms.com.au 📞 Call us at 0243260800 📧 Email us at support@caringarms.com.au Let us be your partner in finding the right support, at the right time.