If you’re new to NDIS funding, you’re probably feeling a bit overwhelmed right now – and that’s perfectly understandable. But don’t worry, you’re in the right place. With the right guidance, navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) isn’t as complicated as it looks at first glance. In fact, we’ve put everything you need to know in one place. So, read on for answers to all your questions, key information about accessing the NDIS for the first time, and how to get the most out of everything available to you. Let’s get started –
Is my child eligible for the NDIS?
We’ll start with eligibility. The NDIS exists to provide individualised support to people with disabilities by funding a range of services and products including therapies, assistive technologies, home modifications, personal care assistance, and support to help people engage in the community, education, and employment. To be eligible for the service, your child must meet the criteria below:
- You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
- Your disability must be permanent and significantly impact your ability to take part in everyday activities. This includes physical, intellectual, sensory, cognitive, and psychosocial disabilities.
If you meet these criteria, you can start the process of applying for the NDIS. So, let’s look at how to go about doing that.
How do I access my funding?
Define your needs and your goals
Before you start the application process, it’s helpful to think about what your child will need. This might involve seeking out a diagnosis or getting reports from health professionals like doctors, therapists, or specialists. These documents are helpful because you might also need them when proving eligibility for your NDIS funding.
Here are a few things to ask yourself:
- What support do you or your child currently receive?
- What challenges do you face on a day-to-day basis?
- What goals do you have for the future, such as increased independence, participation in education, and community involvement?
Understanding your needs and goals will help you better communicate with the NDIS and ensure you receive the right level of support.
Make an NDIS access request
The next step is to submit your NDIS Access Request. You can do this in one of three ways:
- Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 to request an Access Request Form.
- Visit your local NDIS office and make the request in person.
- If you’re receiving support from a Local Area Coordinator (LAC), they can help you make the access request.
You’ll need to provide personal details (such as your name, date of birth, and residency status) and information about your child’s disability and how it impacts everyday life. At this point, you’ll need to include the medical reports and any other evidence you might have gotten from any specialists you visited to support your request.
Waiting for a decision
Once you’ve submitted your application, the NDIS will assess your eligibility. This can take some time, so having a bit of patience is helpful. During this assessment, they may contact you or your health professionals for additional information. If your application is successful, you will be formally accepted into the NDIS, and the next step is creating your personalised NDIS plan.
If your application is not successful, the NDIS will provide a reason. You can ask for a review of this decision if you believe you meet the eligibility criteria but were denied access.
Develop your NDIS plan
If your application is approved, the next step is to meet with a planner to develop your NDIS plan. Your plan is a tailored document that outlines your goals, support needs, and the funding you’ll receive. During the planning meeting, you’ll discuss:
- What your child wants to achieve in the short and long term.
- What support your child needs to meet their goals.
- How you prefer to manage your NDIS funds.
It’s important to go into this meeting well-prepared. Make sure you bring any relevant reports or documentation, and don’t be afraid to speak up about what’s most important to you.
Managing Your NDIS Plan
Once your plan is developed, you’ll receive funding to access the support and services listed in your plan. You can choose to manage your plan in three ways:
- Self-managed: You’ll handle the payments and coordinate your own support services.
- Plan-managed: The NDIS provides funding for a plan manager who will handle the financial aspects for you.
- NDIA-managed: The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) pays providers directly and helps coordinate services on your behalf.
It’s important to know that your plan will last for 12 months. After that it will be reviewed, and you can adjust your goals and support if you need to.
What can I use my funding for?
The NDIS covers a wide range of supports and services, as long as they are deemed ‘reasonable and necessary’ for the participant. This can include:
- Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and more.
- Wheelchairs, hearing aids, communication devices, etc.
- Help with daily living activities such as showering, dressing, and meal preparation.
- Home and vehicle modifications or any adaptations to make your living space or vehicle more accessible.
- Programs designed for social and community participation, helping individuals engage in social, recreational, and educational activities.
Ready to grow
Now that you understand the process of accessing NDIS funding, you’re perfectly prepared to get the support your family needs to achieve the life goals you’ve set out in your plan. If you’re ever unsure about any part of the process, don’t hesitate to seek advice and support from local NDIS offices or service providers like us.
At Puzzle Support Services, our support workers are dedicated to providing personalised support for children with special needs and their families. We have years of experience in all aspects of NDIS-funded support, and our team is fully trained, and super passionate, about making a real difference in the lives of those they care for. So get in touch with us, and we’ll make your NDIS funding work harder for you and your family!
