The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is how the Australian Government funds the costs associated with having a permanent and significant disability. The NDIS provides funding for support and services to people with a disability so they can achieve their goals, live a better day-to-day life and improve their skills for a brighter future. The NDIS is overseen by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
The NDIS focuses on the individual and provides them with the choice to decide where and how to use their funding. Supports can be across many areas, including employment, allied health, accommodation, independence, outdoor activities, sport and community access.
Through the NDIS, funding goes directly to the individual to allocate spending on the services they need from the provider of their choice. A plan is created for each eligible NDIS participant based on specific individual needs and progress goals.
The NDIS is not income tested and participants do not have to pay co-contribution fees. This means that those who care for someone with a disability do not have to pay for all the necessary supports. It also means that families who care for someone with disability can be reassured that their loved one will receive the supports they need.
Whether you are a participant or not you can still be connected with services outside of the NDIS in your local community.
Are you eligible for the NDIS?
There is a checklist that is provided under the NDIS scheme that would help you know if you are eligible for the funding or not. You can still avail all the services we provide even if you are not eligible for NDIS support.
You may be eligible to receive an individual support plan if you;
- are under 65 years of age
- are an Australia citizen, a permanent resident, or New Zealand citizen who is a Protected Special Category Visa holder
- have a permanent and/or significant disability that impacts your everyday living and you require assistance from others to do things
- use equipment or assistive technology
- have a permanent and/or significant disability that impacts your everyday living and you require assistance from others to do things
What is the next step?/ Brief overview of your journey
- Eligibility – Once you are eligible for NDIS, you will become an NDIS registered participant
- Meet with a Planner – a planner is someone who will guide you through the process of making a NDIS plan, you can contact an ECEI Coordinator, LAC or NDIA planner.
- Make a plan – You have to make a plan that would describe your goals and future plans and how your disability is causing a hindrance and how the funding can help you overcome these obstacles.
- Look for a provider – It is important to look for a NDIS approved provider who can understand and fulfil your needs. Your relationship with the provider is going to be a long one.
- Upgrade/Maintenance of plan – You can think of changing and upgrading your plan with time if needed.
What Happens after your application is approved.
Once you receive your NDIS Plan, the next step is to organise your services and supports. iCare Ability Assist is a registered NDIS provider and so we are always ready to help you achieve your goals and plan for the future. At iCare Ability Assist, we have a range of services and supports that can be tailored to meet your needs. We have been providing personalised services to people with disability for over 10 years. Our experienced staff will meet with you to find out about your dreams and aspirations and work with you to tailor support that will help you reach your full potential. We understand that things can change, so we offer a flexible service that ensures you can continue to live your life, your way.
- Agency Managed – The plan is directly managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). the NDIA is responsible for paying providers for any equipment or services you book with them. Service providers can invoice the NDIS directly. The main downside of this option is it is less flexible and you would be limited to booking services from NDIS registered providers.
- Self Managed – The plan will be completely managed by you and you would be responsible for all the work. If you feel confident in organising your own services, managing money and completing complex paperwork, this would be the option for you. You are your own boss and this route would be flexible.
- Plan Managed – This would be a third party managing your plan on your behalf as a “plan manager”. You will have to pay a fee to your plan manager for their services, however it is possible to receive funding in your plan for plan management.
iCARE NDIS SERVICES
