STA Booking & Planning Process
Complete guide to booking Short Term Accommodation including timeline requirements, booking steps, information needed, and planning strategies for successful stays.
How Far in Advance to Book STA
Booking timeframes vary significantly based on the type of STA and your specific circumstances.
Crisis accommodation available with minimal notice
Requirements:
- Emergency contact details
- Basic support needs information
- Crisis situation explanation
- Accept available accommodation
Booking Tips:
- Contact multiple providers
- Be flexible with location
- Have emergency kit ready
- Prioritize safety over preferences
Availability: Limited but prioritized
Planned family respite and regular breaks
Requirements:
- Preferred dates and duration
- Support needs assessment
- Previous stay feedback
- Regular booking arrangements
Booking Tips:
- Book recurring dates early
- Build relationships with providers
- Plan around provider availability
- Consider seasonal demand
Availability: Good with advance booking
Holiday accommodation and recreational stays
Requirements:
- Destination preferences
- Activity and program interests
- Group or individual preferences
- Special accommodation needs
Booking Tips:
- Book popular destinations early
- Consider off-peak periods
- Research destination accessibility
- Plan activities in advance
Availability: Seasonal and location dependent
Trial stays to assess accommodation options
Requirements:
- Assessment objectives
- Trial duration needs
- Comparison criteria
- Future housing timeline
Booking Tips:
- Plan multiple trial stays
- Document experiences
- Involve support team
- Compare different options
Availability: Good with provider cooperation
The STA Booking Process
Follow these steps to successfully book your STA accommodation.
Identify Your Needs
Determine the type, duration, and timing of STA you require
Key Tasks:
- Define purpose of stay (respite, emergency, holiday, trial)
- Determine preferred dates and duration
- Identify support needs and preferences
- Consider location and transport requirements
- Set budget expectations
Timeframe:
1-2 weeks before booking
Research Providers
Find and evaluate suitable STA providers in your area
Key Tasks:
- Use NDIS provider finder tool
- Ask for recommendations from support coordinator
- Research provider websites and reviews
- Check provider registration and quality ratings
- Contact providers for initial information
Timeframe:
1 week before booking
Make Initial Contact
Contact providers to check availability and discuss needs
Key Tasks:
- Call or email preferred providers
- Discuss availability for your dates
- Explain your support needs and preferences
- Ask about facilities, activities, and costs
- Request facility tour if possible
Timeframe:
When ready to book
Complete Booking
Finalize your booking and provide necessary information
Key Tasks:
- Complete booking forms and assessments
- Provide support plans and medical information
- Arrange payment or funding authorization
- Confirm booking details and dates
- Receive booking confirmation
Timeframe:
At time of booking
Pre-Stay Preparation
Prepare for your stay and confirm final details
Key Tasks:
- Complete pre-arrival forms
- Pack personal items and medications
- Confirm arrival time and transport
- Review accommodation rules and procedures
- Prepare emergency contacts list
Timeframe:
1-2 weeks before stay
Information You'll Need for Booking
Prepare this information in advance to make the booking process smooth and efficient.
- NDIS participant number and plan details
- Full name, date of birth, and contact details
- Emergency contact information
- Medicare and health insurance details
- Cultural, religious, or dietary requirements
- Preferred communication methods
- Current support plan and goals
- Personal care needs and preferences
- Medication list and administration requirements
- Mobility and accessibility needs
- Behavioral support plans if applicable
- Communication support requirements
- Current medical conditions and diagnoses
- Medication allergies and reactions
- Healthcare provider contact details
- Recent medical reports if relevant
- Therapy schedules and requirements
- Medical equipment and supply needs
- Activity and interest preferences
- Social interaction comfort levels
- Room and accommodation preferences
- Goals for the stay
- Previous STA experience feedback
- Specific requests or concerns
STA Planning Timeline Checklist
Use this timeline to ensure you're prepared and organized for your STA booking and stay.
- Identify need for STA and discuss with support team
- Research potential providers and accommodation types
- Check NDIS plan funding allocation
- Begin discussions with preferred providers
- Consider any special requirements or timing
- Confirm booking with chosen provider
- Complete assessment and booking forms
- Provide support plans and medical information
- Arrange funding authorization if required
- Schedule facility tour if desired
- Complete pre-arrival paperwork
- Confirm arrival and departure arrangements
- Prepare medication and care plans
- Pack personal items and comfort objects
- Brief family and support team
- Final confirmation of booking details
- Check transport arrangements
- Prepare emergency contact list
- Review accommodation rules and procedures
- Discuss any last-minute concerns
Tips for Successful STA Booking
- Research multiple providers and compare options
- Read reviews and ask for references
- Visit facilities if possible before booking
- Understand cancellation policies
- Confirm NDIS funding allocation
- Be honest about your support needs
- Ask questions about facilities and services
- Get all agreements in writing
- Discuss any special requirements early
- Keep copies of all booking documentation