According to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), over four million people in Australia have some form of disability. With this in mind, the agency operates the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to help those in need. According to some predictions, the agency will provide around $22 billion in support in the next five years alone. But what type of support is available through this scheme?
Types of Support Available from the NDIS Australia
Ultimately, the aim of the NDIA is to provide support to those who need it the most. For those with a significant, permanent disability, the scheme is often a lifeline. In fact, many people who receive support through this route are doing so for the first time in their lives. The support provided through the NDIS will depend on the individual; for example, some people will be connected to local services such as doctors. Meanwhile, others are connected to schools, libraries, sporting clubs, or other organizations. When you first connect with the NDIS, you will receive a written agreement tailored to your needs. Rather than providing blanket support for everyone, the scheme is designed to personalize its approach for each person since the needs of all disabled people are unique. During the early stages, representatives will ask questions about your life, your life goals, how you manage, and the type of support you require. From here, the NDIS will devise a plan for you. While some people manage their funding themselves, others have NDIA-managed funding or plan-managed funding. If you manage your own funds, you can spend the money on the support that you need. Alternatively, the other two types of plans are managed more carefully. With plan-managed funding, a Plan Manager will help to execute your plan and track all funds. Meanwhile, the NDIA can pay providers for you through NDIA-managed funding. In short, the support you receive depends on your disability and your goals. While some people need physiotherapy for their disability, others will need home help. Often, you can access amazing facilities like Perth Healthcare and Support Enterprise, thanks to the NDIS. Examples of support include:
- Transport to daily life, social, or economic activities
- Help with household tasks
- Daily personal activities
- Therapy support
- Home modification
- Vehicle modification
- Mobility equipment
Eligibility for NDIS Australia
Now that you’ve seen the types of support available from NDIS Australia, the next question you’re likely to have regards eligibility. Are you eligible to receive support from this government scheme? You will need to meet the following criteria:
- You will need to be between the age of seven and 65 – if you’re above this threshold or reading this guide for a child under seven, the NDIA suggests alternatives for support.
- You will need to live in Australia and have an Australian residency. For those who have moved to Australia, you are still eligible if you have a Permanent or Special Category Visa.
- You must need short-term financial support to alleviate the pressure in later life. If support now will reduce future needs, the NDIS is likely to help.
- You’re also more likely to qualify for NDIS Australia if you need support from a person or from special equipment because of a significant and permanent disability.
If you have any questions or want to get started, contact the NDIS now. The sooner you complete your application, the sooner you will have a plan to assist your everyday life. Even if you have never had support before, this doesn’t mean that the NDIS cannot help!
