National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) | Information & facts

NDIS is the National Disability Insurance Scheme which has recently become available in parts of New South Wales. This scheme provides support to people with disabilities, their families and their carers. The NDIS is useful to people with disabilities in that it provides support and helps with access to services and opportunities.

This scheme is accessible by people who are: under 65 years of age, an Australian citizen, resident or permanent visa holder who meet the requirements of the disability or early intervention assessment. However, the NDIS continues to be rolled out across New South Wales which means that it is not available to everyone just yet.

The disability requirements can be met if: you have a permanent impairment which reduces your ability to cope without assistance. On the other hand, you may meet the early intervention requirements which can be broken down into two parts. The first of which is if you have an impairment where you can prove that early support from the NDIS and no other scheme will help you, your carers and your family. The second of which can be met if you are a child under 6 years of age with a developmental delay which reduces capacity that results in the need for services that can best be provided for by the NDIS.

To get funding from the NDIS, you must first meet the access requirements that have been mentioned above. Once eligibility has been determined you must speak to the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) for them to assess you over the phone. In some cases, the agency may need extra information in which case they will send you a form to be completed by your GP. People who are already under schemes through the government which are set to be phased out will be contacted by the NDIA to ensure there is on-going care. If you do not wish to speak over the phone, you can request that a form be mailed to your home.

The type of NDIS funding and accessibility is dependent on your situation and the eligibility that you meet. However, the NDIS offers aid with: housing, information and referral, community services and activity access, individualised plans, early intervention, funded supports and assistive technology. This means that there are a variety of support options available to people who meet the eligibility requirements.

Here at A2Z Medical Centre, we can help you understand what the NDIS is and what it can do for you as well as help determine your eligibility. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the NDIS please contact us on 9758 9848 and we can arrange an appointment with our NDIS specialist.