The New National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
The disability services Australia ndis first national scheme designed to help people with disability get the support they need to live an ordinary life.
The NDIS aims to make sure everyone who has a permanent and significant disability gets the right support at the right time. This is done by replacing the current system of disability services that is run by different states and territories.
The NDIS is a new disability policy, designed to replace the previous systems of state-determined services. It aims to promote choice and control for participants, and supports them in planning and buying the services they need.
This is done through a 'personalisation' model of funding where individuals receive funding packages that are determined by their level of need and self-defined goals, with which to purchase services. It draws on policy trends in the UK and Europe that have promoted 'personalisation' of social services, including services for people with disabilities.
However, market based approaches have the potential to entrench or widen inequities if they are not carefully considered. This could occur through inefficient or ineffective (i.e. thin) disability markets, market failure in some areas or by imposing conditions on recipients which ultimately undermine their health (such as forced relocation to achieve choice and control).
The NDIS has the potential to secure gains in health for hundreds of thousands of Australians with a disability, but these can only be achieved if it is implemented correctly. The NDIS will need to be a highly-effective and equitable system that takes careful account of the inequities above, and others as they arise.
Who is eligible for the NDIS?
There are a number of criteria that a person must meet to access NDIS funding. These include age, residency and disability.
The NDIS also has specific requirements for children aged 0-6 and people with psychosocial disabilities. It is important to remember that the NDIS does not consider income or assets when assessing your eligibility.
Getting your NDIS access is the first step to getting support and you will need to complete an Access Request form and provide evidence that shows you meet the NDIS eligibility criteria.
Your local MS Queensland NeuroAssist Infoline can help you with this process. Call 1800 177 591 to book in for a free information session.
You will need to have evidence that your disability significantly reduces your functional capacity (your ability to perform activities). This is called a ‘disability requirement’ and if you are eligible for this, the NDIS can provide you with a range of supports.
What are the benefits of the NDIS?
If you or a family member has a permanent and significant disability, you may be eligible to receive support from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). You can use this funding to help you live your life to the fullest.
The NDIS supports people with disabilities by helping them plan, fund, and provide the services they need to achieve their goals. These can be about gaining independence, employment, social participation or health and wellbeing.
In addition, the NDIS helps disabled people build their self-confidence through various life skills training. These include enhancing assertiveness, teamwork, selfdirection, and communication skills.
You can also get help finding accommodation that will suit your disability and needs. Whether you want to stay in your own home, move into a supported apartment or live with a family, the NDIS can help you find a place that’s right for you.
According to a report by Per Capita, the economic benefits of the NDIS in 2020-2021 will be $52.4 billion. For every $1 billion that the government underfunds the NDIS, it will remove over $10200 jobs from the economy.
How can I find out more about the NDIS?
The ndis service providers is a new way of supporting people with disability to live life the way they want. It provides funding based on need and gives you choice and control over the support you receive to help achieve your goals.
You can find out more about the NDIS on the NDIA website or through your local disability services agency. They will be able to tell you more about the NDIS, explain your eligibility and provide information on what supports are available for you.
Your local NDIA service coordinator will also be able to help you with your plan and how to use the online NDIS portal, myplace. They will work with you to make sure your plan covers the best range of supports and that you are using it to its full potential.
Getting started with the NDIS can be complex. To get the most from your plan, you need to understand the different types of services and supports available, gather medical reports and prepare for your planning meeting.