Understanding the NDIS

A new way to fund disability support services

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) gives you more choice on how to spend government-approved support funds.

It’s a big change. We’re here to help you understand what it means to you or someone you care for - call us on 1800 236 762 or send us an enquiry.

For Children under the age of six the Early Childhood Approach (ECA) program is available which is also funded through the NDIS.

How does the NDIS work?

The NDIS is designed to give you more choice, control and independence. NDIS funding packages replace your existing disability services funding.

You work with the government to agree on an approved funding package for the types of services you need. You have the choice of who will provide the services you need. You have more say in what’s important in your life, and the support you need.

You will have an NDIS planning meeting to create a plan based on your individual needs and goals. Funding goes directly to you to spend on the services you need with any approved service supplier.

Big changes can get confusing. If you need some advice on understanding the NDIS, get in touch today - send us an enquiry, or call 1800 236 762.

Who is eligible for an NDIS support package?

To receive an NDIS support package, you must:

• Live in an area where the NDIS is available
• Meet the residency requirements (be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or Protected Special Category Visa holder)
• Meet the disability or early intervention requirements
• Be under 65 years of age when the access request is made
• Meet any other conditions relevant to your individual circumstances

You make a request for a support package to the NDIA (the National Disability Insurance Agency). If you’re already receiving government-funded support, you may have automatic access and not need to make a new application. Once you are part of the NDIS, you're known as a "participant".

What support can be funded in an NDIS package?

You may be eligible for funding across education, employment, social participation, independence, living arrangements and health and wellbeing. 

Funding may cover:

• Daily personal activities
• Transport to community, social, economic and daily life activities
• Workplace funding to help you get or keep a job in the open or supported labour market
• Therapeutic supports including behaviour support
• Help with household tasks to maintain your home environment
• Professional help in arranging aids or equipment assessment, set up and training
• Home modification design and construction
• Mobility equipment
• Vehicle modifications

Talk to us about preparing for your NDIS planning meeting.  Send an enquiry or call 1800 236 762.

What is an NDIS plan?

You meet with a Local Area Coordinator to agree on a plan of ‘reasonable and necessary’ supports. This is called your NDIS plan. The supports are provided by registered service providers, and the funds may be managed by you (the participant), or:

• The NDIA
• A registered plan management provider
• A nominee of the participant

The NDIS aims to give you choice and control to meet your goals through the right supports.

Making an NDIS plan

Step 1: Preparing for your meeting with the NDIS

• Think about your future goals and what you want your life to look like
• What type of support has worked well for you in the past and what hasn’t
• Talk to your current support providers to find out what you need to do to keep any services you need from them
• Think about all your needs, how will you coordinate services, select providers, manage finances and achieve your goals to live your best life
• What is fair for your carers to provide and where do you need paid supports
• Who do you want to have at your planning meeting.

Step 2: The NDIA contacts you to arrange a meeting

• The NDIS will roll out in your area over 12 months so don’t worry if you don't hear straight away
• You'll receive a phone call or a letter to organise a meeting with your Local Area Coordinator.

Step 3: Communicate your needs at the meeting

• Take your support person to your planning meeting
• Be open and honest about what you need help with
• Bring your pre-planning document with all your needs listed
• Remember to consider your physical, mental and social needs
• Meet with your Local Area Coordinator to discuss your plan
• If you have any recent professional reports, which relate to your disability, it’s also helpful to have these at the meeting.

Step 4: Get your plan

• Keep an eye out for your letter in the post
• The letter has instructions on logging on to an online portal
• Log on to the NDIA portal and check for your plan.

Step 5: Understanding your plan

Call us for a chat about your plan, and together we’ll make sure you have everything you need -  send us an enquiry or call 1800 236 762.

Support where you need it