GOVERNMENT
There are currently 450,000 people receiving disability support with more than 100,000 joining the scheme in the past year.
Quarterly Report
The Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC has released the NDIS Quarterly Report to disability ministers Q4 2020-21. This Quarterly Report is a summary of how the Scheme performed from 1 April 2021 to 30 June 2021.
We are now supporting just over 466,600 people with disability. Approximately 18,000 people joined the Scheme this quarter. This Quarterly Report has information on our progress on improving our engagement, participant outcomes and more.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/contact
The Participant Service Improvement Plan 2020-21 sets out what we are doing to deliver a better NDIS.
It explains the practical changes we’re making so that the NDIS works better for everyone; for participants, their families and carers, their providers and the broader community. note improvements to the Scheme and we will continue to deliver them over time. We will tell you when we have made changes.
Participant Service Improvement Plan
- Participant Service Improvement Plan (PDF 931KB)
- Participant Service Improvement Plan (DOCX 86KB)
- Easy Read - Participant Service Improvement Plan (PDF 5.9MB)
- Easy Read (text only) - Participant Service Improvement Plan (DOCX 48KB)
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This page explains some of the recent pricing changes and how those changes might affect you, your family and your carers.
It’s important to understand all of the prices you might be charged by your providers, so you can be confident you are receiving value for money from your plan budget.
Learn more about NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits and who needs to follow them.
You should be aware of your rights and you must have the opportunity to discuss any changes to prices you pay providers.
Below, we have explained what each change means and how it may affect you.
In the past, any funds in your plan at the end of the financial year – 30 June – were adjusted for new price limits. This year your plan will not be adjusted for pricing changes.
How does it affect me?
If you usually spend all of the funds in your plan, and your plan end date is close, this might affect you. We have a process in place to monitor plan utilization and identify participants who are likely to utilise their entire funded supports before their plan end date. We will ensure participants continue to receive supports without disruption. If you have any concerns about your plan funds, contact us for a plan review.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/managing-your-plan/understanding-pricing-changes
This page explains some of the recent pricing changes and how those changes might affect you, your family and your carers.
It’s important to understand all of the prices you might be charged by your providers, so you can be confident you are receiving value for money from your plan budget.
Learn more about NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits and who needs to follow them.
You should be aware of your rights and you must have the opportunity to discuss any changes to prices you pay providers.
- NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2021-22 (PDF 1.8MB) - effective 1 January 2022
- NDIS Support Catalogue 2021-22 (XLSX 159KB) - effective 1 January 2022
This page explains some of the recent pricing changes and how those changes might affect you, your family and your carers.
It’s important to understand all of the prices you might be charged by your providers, so you can be confident you are receiving value for money from your plan budget.
Learn more about NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits and who needs to follow them.
You should be aware of your rights and you must have the opportunity to discuss any changes to prices you pay providers.
Below, we have explained what each change means and how it may affect you.
Adjusting your current funds
What has changed?
In the past, any funds in your plan at the end of the financial year – 30 June – were adjusted for new price limits. This year your plan will not be adjusted for pricing changes.
How does it affect me?
If you usually spend all of the funds in your plan, and your plan end date is close, this might affect you. We have a process in place to monitor plan utilisation and identify participants who are likely to utilise their entire funded supports before their plan end date. We will ensure participants continue to receive supports without disruption. If you have any concerns about your plan funds, contact us for a plan review.
by Judy Skatssoon May 12, 2021
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Ballooning NDIS gets $13m in budget
The federal government has provided an additional $13.2 billion over four years for NDIS disability supports with the government warning the scheme is growing at a rate beyond what was initially calculated. Handing down the budget on Tuesday night, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the NDIS has improved the lives of people with disability and their families but must remain sustainable. “As the scheme reaches its maturity our focus is on ensuring its sustainability and that it continues to deliver a high quality essential service for those who need it,” he said.
Mr Frydenberg said 450,000 people are currently getting disability support with more than 100,000 joining the NDIS in the last year. NDIS funding is expected to hit $122 billion over the next four years and an estimated 530,000 participants are expected access the scheme in coming years.
Other budget initiatives targeting disability include $112.4 million over four years for support for people with a severe psychosocial disability who aren’t eligible for the NDIS and $12.7 million to improve health services for people with an intellectual disability.
There’s also $17.9 million for an early childhood program aimed at providing disability-related services for families of young children with disability or developmental needs.
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Queenslanders with disabilities kept in hospital years longer than necessary due to lack of services
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-09-02/coronavirus-queensland-rti-documents-disabled-hospitalised-ndis/12607344
Exclusive by state political correspondent Peter McCutcheon and Michael Atkin
Posted Wed 2 Sep 2020 at 5:47amWednesday 2 Sep 2020 at 5:47am, updated Wed 2 Sep 2020 at 10:04am
The COVID-19 crisis has exposed cracks in the NDIS system that are leaving people with disabilities forced to stay in hospital for months or even years longer than necessary.
Key points:
- Documents show patients ready to be discharged from hospital can sometimes wait years
- In April the Federal Government was asked to urgently release hundreds of patients into "appropriate accommodation"
- Advocates say the delays raise "broader, underlying" questions about disability care
Documents obtained under Queensland's Right to Information laws show in late March this year, there were 296 patients in Queensland Health beds who were eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and ready to be discharged.
In a ministerial briefing note dated March 27, the acting senior policy officer in the Disability and Multicultural Health Unit said on average, these patients "usually wait two-to-three months to leave hospital and sometimes years".
"This is far too long, especially considering that patients with comorbidities are at a greater risk of fatality as a result of COVID-19," he wrote.
"NDIS participants in acute and subacute public beds would be exposed to and are at high risk of contracting the virus."
Where can I find help?
You can read more about aged care options including care at home on our Aged Care Guide website.
For questions about funding or to organise an aged care assessment, contact the My Aged Care team on 1800 200 422.
The Disability Gateway website and phone line 1800 643 787 also provide help for people with a disability to find information.
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Myths busted: facts to combat myths around the NDIS part 1
There are lots of misunderstandings about how the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be used to support people with disability. It can be hard to know what is fact or a myth, so we’ve put together a two part list of our top 15 myths and the facts which they relate to.
Myth #1: My disability isn’t physical so I can’t receive support.
Fact: If your disability is permanent and you need support to live your life you can receive NDIS funding.
This includes disabilities which may not be physically visible to other people, such as intellectual disabilities, hearing impairments and disabilities arising from a mental health condition.
Myth #2: I have a job, earn too much money or have too many assets to be eligible for the NDIS.
Fact: The NDIS funds support for all people with disability regardless of their financial circumstances.
Showing how much you earn or own is not part of applying for NDIS funding and it doesn’t impact how much funding you receive.
Myth #3: Once I have my plan it can’t be changed if I’m not happy with it or if my circumstances change.
Fact: If you’re not happy with a decision made about your plan you can request an internal review and there are further options if you think the review of the decision is also wrong, including an Administrative Appeals Tribunal and a complaints process.
With any significant change to your personal circumstances or needs you have to let the NDIA know of the changes using a specific form.
Telling the NDIA of your change in circumstances is important because your plan might need to be reviewed or your contact details may have changed.
Myth #4: Once I’ve chosen my providers I can’t change them.
Fact: You have a right to choose who provides the support you need to work towards your goals, which also means you can change providers if there is another provider that you feel will give you better support.
You don’t have to give your current provider a reason why you are seeking a different provider and you could change providers for a number of reasons.
For example, if your goals have changed, you have moved to another area and want a new local provider, your service provider changes the services they have, your provider increases their costs or you are unhappy with the service they are providing.
Myth #5: Only NDIS registered providers can be used.
Fact: If your plan is managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), also known as agency managed, you can only use registered providers.
However, if you have a plan manager or self manage your plan you can also use providers that have chosen not to register with the NDIS.
Myth #6: My Support Coordinator will handle everything for me.
Fact: A support coordinator helps you to understand your NDIS plan and how to use it.
They can help you to develop the skills you need to be able to use the support you want to reach your goals, live independently and engage in the community.
Myth #7: The Disability Support Pension and NDIS can’t be received at the same time.
Fact: The Disability Support Pension is separate to the NDIS and you can receive the pension while being on the NDIS.
That's because NDIS funding is not considered as income and therefore doesn’t affect assessments for the Disability Support Pension.
Although, not everyone who receives NDIS funding is eligible for the Disability Support Pension because the pension takes into account financial circumstances as well as proof of disability.
Myth #8: The NDIS can’t help with mental health support.
Fact: If you have a mental health condition from which a disability arises, known as a psychosocial disability, you may be eligible for NDIS funding to help you live a fulfilling lifestyle.
For example, you may be able to get support to participate in activities in the community or to attend appointments.
But the NDIS does not fund early intervention supports or treatments for mental health conditions, such as therapy, and funding can’t be used to top up a mental health treatment plan from your doctor, which provides rebates for up to 20 sessions with a mental health professional a year under Medicare.
If you’re unsure whether you can qualify for NDIS support for a mental health related disability, you can still contact the NDIS to check and if you are not eligible they will help you to connect with other supports.
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Proposed changes to NDIS plans continue
Kymberly Martin June 16, 2021
A paper outlining how NDIS participants could be supported with more flexible NDIS plans in the future, has been released as consultations continue with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and sector representatives. Workshops will be held during June and July intended to seek additional feedback on the proposed reforms as well as recommendations on improvements to the access and planning process.
These consultations will continue before any enabling legislation is finalised and introduced, NDIS Minister Linda Reynolds said. “It is clear to me that participants want to ensure that their goals are still included in the planning process and this paper outlines how that is proposed to work and what participants would expect,” the minister said.
“The current approach to building an NDIS plan has meant participants had to annually negotiate for specific supports or have to request a review where they needed to use more funding in one category than another, which is not in line with the original intent of flexibility, choice and control.”
The proposed new personalized budget would have two main supports, a flexible and fixed budget.
The fixed component is funding for specific purposes such as high value assistive technology or home modifications while the flexible component will be an amount of funding that each participant would spend on any type of support they choose, in line with what is funded through the NDIS.
This new approach will also provide participants with the ability to view their draft budget before their planning meeting. It allows them to discuss with their planner any questions about their overall plan and would be done at the time of their meeting and would include any exceptions and how to best utilize their budget.
According to the minister under this new proposal the draft plan will give planners and delegates a solid starting point for the planning discussion prior to identifying any additional funded supports. NDIA delegates would continue to make the final decisions based on a participant’s plan budget.
Participants who believe a decision made by an NDIA delegate about their plan is wrong, would also continue to request a review, the minister said, adding that it was important to consider reforms that ensure the scheme’s ongoing growth is sustainable.
The first workshop in June will be convened by an independent facilitator. The aim will be to identify areas for improvement to the proposed NDIS access and planning reforms, including independent assessments to help address sector concerns.
The budgets paper is available on the NDIS website: www.ndis.gov.au\
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Individualised Living Options funding explained
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/information/article/individualised-living-options-funding-explained
1. What is Individualised Living Options support?
2. What is included in ILO?
- Formal versus informal supports
- What are the benefits of an ILO?
- How to get an ILO package
- Other support
- Key points:
- Individualised Living Options funding can support people with disability to live independently
- The funding can be provided in a range of living situations including host living, with housemates or co-residents and with mentors
- It takes into account formal and informal supports you may need, where and how you want to live
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INFO - There are lots of misunderstandings around what people with disability can have funded under the NDIS. It can be hard to know what is fact or a myth, so we’ve put together a list of myths and the facts which they relate to, with this article being part 2 of the series and covering funding myths.
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Government brings out the big guns to combat NDIS fraud
Kymberly Martin August 3, 2021
The NDIS Fraud Taskforce is being strengthened to crack down on dodgy providers. NDIS Minister Linda Reynolds said the Taskforce will be extended indefinitely to protect the integrity of the scheme. “This extension sends a clear signal on the Morrison Government’s zero tolerance approach to fraud,” the minister said. “My priority is ensuring participants are protected from illegal or unscrupulous behaviour and that illegal activity will be detected and met with the full force of the law.”
State and territory disability ministers met recently with Minister Reynolds and agreed that she would bring forward legislation in the next Parliamentary session to further protect participants from unscrupulous provider behaviour.
The National Disability Insurance Agency has also established a new Compliance Response team, a 30-member group that will work to proactively identity potential non-compliance by both providers and participants through activities such as data analytics.
The NDIS Fraud Taskforce is a multi-agency partnership between the NDIA, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Services Australia, with a focus on high risk and serious criminal activity targeting the NDIS. Established in 2018, the NDIS Fraud Taskforce has been integral in the investigation and successful prosecutions of criminals targeting NDIS participants.
Anyone with concerns that fraud is being committed against the NDIS should contact the NDIS fraud hotline on: 1800 650 717.
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https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements
NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (previously the NDIS Price Guide) assist participants and disability support providers to understand the way that price controls for supports and services work in the NDIS. Price regulation is in place to ensure that participants receive value for money in the supports that they receive.
The Support Catalogue lists all of the available supports that providers can use when lodging a payment request. It also provides information on the current (and previous) price limits for each support item and indicates which claim types (travel, non-face-to-face, etc.) apply for each price-limited support item.
Price limits are the maximum prices that registered providers can charge NDIS participants for specific supports. Participants and providers can negotiate lower prices. NDIS pricing arrangements and price limits must be followed when supports are delivered to NDIA-managed or plan-managed participants.
The NDIA regularly updates pricing arrangements.uly 2021
- NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2021-22 (PDF 1.8MB) - effective 1 September 2021
- NDIS Support Catalogue 2021-22 (XLSX 218KB) - effective 17 August 2021
National Disability Insurance Scheme Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2021-22
Key points:
- By the age of 65, two in five people have a disability of some kind
- Once you turn 65, you will need to decide if you remain on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or switch to the Government's aged care system
- If you decide to stay with the NDIS, you can only receive the same supports
https://absolutecarehealth.com.au/resource-centre/what-happens-to-my-ndis-plan-when-i-turn-65
You can remain on the NDIS once you turn 65, however, there are some situations where you have to move to the aged care system. Already on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) when you turn 65, you will have to decide whether you stay on the NDIS or whether you transfer to My Aged Care to fund your care needs.
How to transfer
Once you turn 65, you will be given a choice between staying on the NDIS or moving to aged care services through My Aged Care.
The level of funding you receive can change when you change over from the NDIS to Government subsidised aged care, but will still meet your care needs with an emphasis on assisting you to live independently. While participants on the NDIS are not means tested, which means you receive care based on your disability and need rather than your ability to pay for it, Government funded aged care services are means tested. This could mean that if you have too many assets or your own money, you may not be eligible to receive Government-subsidised aged care.
To contact My Aged Care for more information about transitioning, contact the Call Centre on 1800 200 422.
I want to stay on the NDIS or same supports
If you want to stay on the NDIS after you turn 65, you can do this as long as you don't have an increase in care needs, receive home care services on a regular basis, or move into aged care. https://absolutecarehealth.com.au/resource-centre/what-happens-to-my-ndis-plan-when-i-turn-65
What is a Home Care Package (HCP)?
Choosing a home care provider
Assessment and eligibility for aged care services
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Key questions to consider before switching your NDIS to plan managed:
So you’ve thought about having your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds plan managed but you’re unsure if it’s the right choice for you? Here are some key questions you need to ask yourself and discuss at your planning meeting before switching.
Jump To Section:
- Why should I switch to a plan manager?
- What are the pros and cons of a plan manager?
- What does a plan manager need to do?
- How does this help me?
- What should I discuss with a plan manager?
- What if I’m unhappy with a plan manager?
- How to change your plan manager?
- Are you ready to start using a plan manager?
How to change your plan manager?
You can change your plan manager at any time during your plan. It’s essential you notify your plan manager before the date you plan to change. Your service agreement will state how much time you need to give your plan manager before you change. Both your plan manager and yourself should agree on the date when you will change. If you decide to change your plan manager, they must give you a report that shows how you used your NDIS funding and how much NDIS funding you have left.
Guide to Plan Management
We have released our Guide to Plan Management.
The guide helps participants, their families and carers have a better experience and understanding of what to expect from plan management.
The guide includes key principles to help ensure the service helps you to achieve your goals, independence and understand the agreement you have with your plan manager.
Find the Guide to Plan management here. We have created an Easy Read version of the guide, you can find it here.Plan-managed fundingThe NDIA will provide funding in your plan to pay for a Plan Manager who pays your providers for you, helps you keep track of funds and takes care of financial reporting for you. Find out more about Plan-managed funding.
NDIA-managed funding
The NDIA pays your providers on your behalf. Find out more about NDIA-managed funding.
More information about plan management is available on our website.
What can I spend leftover NDIS funds on?
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/information/article/what-can-i-spend-leftover-ndis-funds-on
Occasionally, you may reach the end of your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan with some funding remaining. While this is not uncommon, you need to be aware that funds that are not spent cannot be rolled over into a new plan. So what can you do instead? We’ve listed some ideas for what you can spend your leftover NDIS funds on.
Key Points
- Funding from the NDIS aims to help participants reach goals and increase independence
- Having leftover funds in your NDIS plan is not uncommon and there can be a variety of reasons why this might be the case
- There is some room for flexibility when it comes to your NDIS fund, meaning the money doesn’t have to go to waste.
28th April 2021
Independent Assessments: https://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/improving-ndis/independent-assessments-access-and-eligibility
- NDIS Guide to Plan Management
- Why use a plan manager?
- How can I have plan management?
- How do I find and connect with a plan manager?
- After I have connected with a plan manager, what do I do?
- How do I change plan managers?
- Complaints and feedback
- Frequently asked questions
Plan management is when a provider supports you to manage funding in your NDIS plan. These providers are known as plan managers.
Plan management is different from having the NDIA manage funding in your NDIS plan, or you choosing to self-manage your plan. More information on ways to manage your funding.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/creating-your-plan/ways-manage-your-funding/plan-management
NDIS Price Guide is updated regularly by the NDIA. To find the most recent version:- http://ndis.gov.au/priceguidesandpricing
- Price Guide 2020-21 (DOCX 331KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide 2020-21 (PDF 2MB) - effective from 1 March 2021
A better way to plan
How can a NDIS plan manager help you?
- Key Points
- What is a plan manager?
- How to request to use a plan manager?
- How to choose the right plan manager?
- Your first meeting with a plan manager
- Where to find a NDIS plan manager?
- Closing Thoughts
- Related content
A registered plan management provider can help you manage your NDIS funds if you don’t want the NDIA to manage your plan but don’t feel comfortable taking on the responsibility of self-management:
- If you want to use a plan manager you need to request it in your planning meeting
- A plan manager is paid for by the NDIS
- Plan managers give you control without the responsibility of self-managing
What is a plan manager? If you don’t want to self-manage or have an agency manage your NDIS funds, a plan manager can help you on your NDIS journey. They receive invoices from your providers, pay invoices, claim funds from the NDIS portal and provide you with a monthly statement showing your funding spending.
- Home and living ___________________________
Most participants will continue to access housing in the private market by owning or renting, or through social housing.
NDIS participants are responsible for day-to-day living costs including rent, groceries, utilities, telephone or internet costs. This is the same for general household items such as a bed, fridge or cooking utensils. There are some limited circumstances where the NDIS may make a contribution to these costs.
NDIS home and living supports
There are different types of home and living supports that the NDIS can fund.
What supports are included
Supports funded by the NDIS, supports funded by housing and other systems and examples of participants who may require home and living support.
What supports are included
The NDIA is working to give its participants more options for how they can set up support in their home. NDIS participants are encouraged to complete a Home and Living Supports Request Form if they have an aligned home and living goal that is not able to be met through mainstream, informal, community or other supports. The NDIA will review the information provided in this application and any other supporting documentation provided. The NDIA will use this information to identify appropriate home and living funding supports options that may assist the participant to pursue their goals.
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NDIS Minister assessing proposed NDIS changes https://www.freedom2live.com.au/ndis-minister-assessing-proposed-ndis-changes/#.YH-5xugzYdU
The well publicised proposed changes to the NDIS is gathering momentum with the newly appointed NDIS Minster Senator Linda Reynolds now reviewing where these suggested reforms will go. In a statement to F2L the minister said she would be closely assessing independent trial outcomes before any legislation is taken forward.
“As the new minister for the NDIS, I am committed to understanding the concerns of the states and territories, stakeholders and most of all the participants as the NDIS was established as, and continues to be, an insurance scheme.
“Any future reforms must continue to deliver on the promise of the NDIS, which is to provide people with permanent and significant disability choice and control over a flexible support package to achieve their goals,” she said. “And this is what independent assessments are designed to do and the purpose of the trial is to understand what is working and what needs to be improved.” According to the minister, like any large program, the NDIS needs constant attention and initial discussions with state and territory counterparts agree to having a fair and equitable scheme with consistent and simple assessment systems.
The government has allocated an additional $3.9 billion in the 2020-21 Budget for NDIS participant costs from 2020-21 to 2023-24, which reflects continued increases in demand for NDIS-funded services. The scheme is expected to cost $93.8 billion over the next four years.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living
https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/creating-your-plan
Kymberly Martin April 21, 2021
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NEW: Disability Gateway
The Federal Government has funded the Disability Gateway as the national disability information service. Started 27th January, we suggest you access the Disability Gateway, available on 1800 643 787 or at https://www.disabilitygateway.gov.au/
Welcome to the Disability Gateway
The Disability Gateway has information and services to help people with disability, their family, friends and carers, to find the support they need in Australia. Watch welcome video
Disability e-news The Department of Social Services provides a regular newsletter with information for people with disability and carer sectors. Read the latest edition of the Disability e-news
https://mailchi.mp/22a9474261e1/disability-enews-informing-the-disability-employment-and-advocacy-sectors-4600431
19 January 2021
Late in 2020, we shared information about the improvements we are making to the NDIS.
You can see the commitments we have made to improve the NDIS in our Service Charter and Participant Improvement Plan, and you can track our progress against them on Participant Service Improvement Plan page.
We want to make sure you get the most up to date information about the improvements as they happen. The best way to do this is by signing up to the NDIS eNewsletter, which comes out each fortnight.
The NDIS eNewsletter is full of the latest news, participant stories and I address some of the common questions and misconceptions I hear about with what is happening with the NDIS.
Sign up for the NDIS eNewsletter today.
The Disability Gateway is a three-year project to deliver a multi-channelled service for people with disability, their friends, family and carers. The Disability Gateway is a way for people to navigate complex disability service system and will help people find out about support and services they may be able to access.
The Australian Government’s aim is to ensure people with disability, their families and carers receive the most effective, accessible and people-centred service available. In January 2021 the new National Disability Information Gateway (the Disability Gateway) pilot website went live. It includes information on services and supports available to all people with disability in Australia, even if they aren’t an NDIS participant.
The full Disability Gateway Service started in January 2021 and include a website and dedicated 1800‑phone number to connect people with disability, their families and carers, to information and services.
The tender to engage a supplier to establish and operate the full Disability Gateway Service was also published this month on AusTender.
What is the Disability Gateway?
The Disability Gateway will:
- improve the navigation to access relevant information and services
- span multiple sectors including health, housing, employment, transport and everyday living
- exist as a central point of entry for referrals to disability information, services and programs
Who is the Disability Gateway for?
The Disability Gateway is for all people with disability, their families and carers.
The Disability Gateway is a three-year project to deliver a multi-channelled service for people with disability, their friends, family and carers. The Disability Gateway is a way for people to navigate complex disability service system and will help people find out about support and services they may be able to access.
The Australian Government’s aim is to ensure people with disability, their families and carers receive the most effective, accessible and people-centred service available. This month the new National Disability Information Gateway (the Disability Gateway) pilot website went live. It includes information on services and supports available to all people with disability in Australia, even if they aren’t an NDIS participant.
The full Disability Gateway Service started January 2021 and includes a website and dedicated 1800‑phone number to connect people with disability, their families and carers, to information and services.
The tender to engage a supplier to establish and operate the full Disability Gateway Service was also published this month on AusTender.
Help us test the Gateway: We are looking for feedback to improve and enhance the Disability Gateway pilot website—we encourage you to log on and explore the site. Feedback buttons are located at the top and bottom right hand sides at Disability Gateway.
You can directly provide your feedback to the Disability Gateway Team at [email protected]
More information
For more information go to Disability Gateway or view our stakeholder kit.
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NDIS Price Guide 2020-21 - effective 1 March 2021
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/talking-disability/ndia-announces-changes-to-covid-supports
The NDIS Price Guide and Support Catalogue 2020‒21 reflects the Annual Price Review and indexed prices as a result of the Fair Work Commission Annual Wage Review 2019‒20.
- Price Guide 2020-21 (DOCX 331KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide 2020-21 (PDF 2MB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide Schedule of Addenda (DOCX 50KB)
- Price Guide Schedule of Addenda (PDF 296KB)
- Price Guide Addendum (DOCX 63KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide Addendum (PDF 502KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Support Catalogue 2020-21 (CSV 410KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide 2020‒21 for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
- Assistive Technology, Home Modifications and Consumables Code Guide A new package of reforms to the NDIS has been announced by the Government in response to the recommendations made in the 2019 Tune review of the NDIS Act.
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/talking-disability/ndis-overhaul-to-give-easier-access-and-make-system-less-complex
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Plan flexibility and budget planning https://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/improving-ndis/plan-flexibility-and-budget-planning
04 December 2020
- The planning process – what is not changing:
- What do the changes mean for me?
- How can I have my say on the planning policy for personalised budgets and plan flexibility?
- Your independent assessment will be used to develop your personalised budget.
- You will receive a draft plan, including a draft budget, before your planning meeting.
- The budget in your plan will be more flexible.
- Your plan can be set up for longer periods of time, and we’ll check in with you on a regular basis to make sure your plan is still working for you.
- From time-to-time, you’ll need to complete a new independent assessment, to make sure the funding in your NDIS plan is still right.
- Your NDIS plan budget will reflect your reasonable and necessary support needs.
- Your goals will still be an important part of your plan.
- Decisions about your personalised plan budget will be made by a person at the NDIA.
- If you are not happy with your plan, you can ask for a review. The review and appeals processes will not change.
- If you have a change in circumstances, you can ask for a plan reassessment.
- The NDIA can quickly make changes to your plan if there is an emergency or you can’t access your essential supports.
What do the changes mean for me?
Personalised plan budgets and plan flexibility
Starting in late 2021, we’ll refer NDIS participants over the age of 7 for an independent assessment as part of the planning process. Because there are more than 400,000 participants in the Scheme, independent assessments won’t happen for everyone at the same time. Instead, as you approach your scheduled plan review, we’ll talk to you about organising an independent assessment.
Your independent assessment will be an important part of your plan, and will change how we build your personalised plan budget. Instead of creating a plan that has funding based on individual items or supports, your budget will be closely matched to your functional capacity and the impact of your environment, based on the information in your independent assessment.
Using your independent assessment, we’ll create a draft budget and share it with you before your planning meeting. We’ll discuss the draft budget, see whether you need any additional assessments or information to finalise your plan, like quotes for high cost assistive technology or home modifications.
Before your planning meeting, you can start thinking about how you will use your plan, including the kinds of supports you need, and how you will work to pursue your goals.
At your planning meeting, you can talk to your planner or Local Area Coordinator about the best way to implement your plan to pursue your goals, how to use your plan flexibly, and let us know when you’d like us to check-in with you.
Your plan will much simpler and easier to use. The core, capacity building and capital budgets will be replaced with two budget categories. A fixed budget for specific supports, such as high cost assistive technology, specialist disability accommodation or home modifications, with your remaining budget to be flexible.
The funds in your flexible budget will be released at regular intervals, and you’ll be able to use your plan to purchase the supports to meet your disability related needs, in a way that best suits you.
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https://www.ideas.org.au/blogs/food-ndis.html
Accessing Food Services under NDIS: The INS and OUTS
Written by Casey Atkins
Last Updated: 18 March 2021
Let’s talk grocery deliveries.
Since COVID took the world by storm there is now a need for quick and cheap grocery delivery. The great news is, NDIS can help you out with a tiny bit of the cost. If your disability means you need help shopping, you may be able to have your groceries home delivered under your core budget. This is helpful for a lot of people, but it is important to remember that NDIS only pays for the delivery fee, not the total amount. Some help is always better than none, and if you struggle to shop or would rather your food delivered to your doorstep- this may be the answer! Please note: Help with groceries under NDIS funding is only available for plan managed or self-managed participants.
But wait, there is more. There is also a new priority home delivery service during COVID-19.
The priority home delivery service can be used via a unique code, given to all eligible participants from the NDIS. This code must be used when checking out with participating supermarkets. This will allow you to get your food delivered when things are not as accessible (such as during COVID). This means more time slots are available so you can get the groceries faster and easier. Not sure if you have received a code? Or you’ve misplaced it? No worries! Contact your Local Area Coordinator or the NDIS on 1800 029 904.
In a fast-paced world filled with technology, food ordering apps are becoming more common. For people with a disability this can be a great option to try different food, have it delivered to you and promote independence. Using NDIS for the above meal delivery services is much like grocery deliveries. The meal you purchased will not be covered but you can claim the delivery fee if it meets NDIS guidelines and is in your plan.
So, what is reasonable and necessary?
Using NDIS funding to pay for food deliveries means you will need to show a need for it related to your disability. If you cannot make a meal yourself or your support person cannot take you shopping due to restrictions then it may be okay to claim delivery costs. Need more clarity? Click here for information from the NDIS themselves or feel free to watch their support video below:
One of the newer, more exciting ways to access food services via NDIS funding is home-delivered meal companies. You can buy these with your funding if deemed necessary. You should have Assistance with Daily Activities or Preparation and Delivery of Meals listed under your Core Supports to use these. The NDIS will only cover some of the cost for meal preparation and delivery (but not the ingredients used).
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There are changes being made to ensure the NDIS is simpler, faster, fairer and more flexible. You can have your say on how we deliver these improvements so that they work for everyone. Your feedback is important to us.
Have YOUR say:- https://www.ndis.gov.au/community/have-your-say
27 January 2021
What we are consulting on:
In our Participant Service Charter, we committed to including people with disability and the community to help us develop and test our processes.
That is why we have released three consultation papers and one project consultation report. We’re also sharing our project report on the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Implementation. This report is for sector stakeholders, governments and mainstream supports like education and health, and outlines the research, recommendations and background behind the third paper; Supporting young children and their families early, to reach their full potential.
The three consultation papers explain proposed changes to NDIS including what these changes will mean for participants.
- Consultation paper: access and eligibility policy with independent assessments
- Consultation paper: planning policy for personalised budgets and plan flexibility
- Consultation paper: supporting young children and their families early, to reach their full potential
- The Early Childhood Early Intervention Reset Project consultation report.
The NDIS is now supporting 400,000 participants •Aug 7, 2020
National Disability Research Partnership paves the way for further improvements to disability policy
Published on Monday 22nd June, 2020
Joint with: Senator the Hon Anne Ruston, Minister for Families and Social Services, Manager of Government Business in the Senate
The Hon Stuart Robert MP, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Minister for Government Services
The Morrison Government has today announced the launch of the National Disability Research Partnership, led by the Melbourne Disability Institute at the University of Melbourne. Minister for Families and Social Services, Anne Ruston, said the National Disability Research Partnership brings together experts in disability policy and research from across the country and around the world to deliver a world-class disability research and policy hub.
‘The Morrison Government is committed to enabling people with disability to have equal opportunity and recognises the enormous role of disability research funding in fulfilling this commitment, that is why we have committed $2.5 million in seed funding to establish this research partnership’ Minister Ruston said. 'The National Disability Research Partnership will promote the use of evidence-informed policy and practice to ensure people with disability have equal opportunities and are included in all aspects of community life.
‘The Partnership will focus on disability and mainstream services including education, health, housing and justice, and facilitate research which recognises the diversity of experiences for people with disability.’
Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Stuart Robert, said over the next two years, the National Disability Research Partnership will prepare and progress a research agenda, research capability roadmap, and practical guides for disability inclusive research in partnership with the disability community. ‘Australia has seen unprecedented change in disability policy over the last decade, including the introduction of the NDIS, which is built on the premise of giving people with disability choice and control over the supports they receive,’ Minister Robert said.
‘The work of the National Disability Research Partnership will ensure all governments continue to improve on our service delivery for an estimated 500,000 NDIS participants over the next few years, and for all Australians with disability.’
The Morrison Government has also committed $15 million for the development of the National Disability Data Asset, and is finalising the new National Disability Strategy with states and territories.
For more information, please visit the NDRP website at https://www.ndrp.org.au
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The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is here to ensure people with disability in the NDIS have a strong voice about their rights to be safe, to exercise choice and control, and have their human rights upheld.
A series of resources has been developed to empower people with disability to ‘speak up’ if they need to about the quality and safety of their NDIS funded supports and services.
The resources feature people with disability, their family and carers and were developed and tested in consultation with people with disability and the sector.
They are available for you to download, print and share with your networks or display anywhere you think they may be seen.
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https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/ Your extra coronavirus payments may mean you need to pay tax Posted on 14/10/2020
You can ask us to take tax out of your payment to help you avoid an income tax debt.
How your superannuation can affect your payment Posted on 14/10/2020 What you choose to do with your super may impact the payments and services you get from us.
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25 November 2020
The access process – what is changing:
https://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/improving-ndis/independent-assessments-access-and-eligibility
- From mid-2021, people over the age of 7 who meet the initial access requirements of the NDIS will be referred for an independent assessment.
- We’ll replace processes developed during transition with more consistent and fairer approaches to determine whether a person is eligible for the NDIS.
- Disability access lists will be removed from the access process. Instead, we’ll use independent assessments to help us work out if someone meets the eligibility criteria of the NDIS.
- People applying for the NDIS still need to provide evidence of their age, residency and disability with their access request form. This includes advice from their treating health professional as to whether their impairment or impairments are, or are likely to be, permanent.
- Decisions about whether a person is eligible for the NDIS are still made by a person at the NDIA.
- The NDIS review and appeals processes will not change.
Carer Payment
An income support payment if you give constant care to someone who has a severe disability, illness, or an adult who is frail aged.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS):
People with dementia under the age of 65 may be eligible to access the NDIS and the ‘Support for Sustaining Informal Supports’ provided for through it. However, it is important to note it is not referred to as respite. It includes respite-like support such as replacement support, group-based facilities or in-home support. The NDIS guidelines are very clear that the person with dementia is the central focus of the plan and supports are aligned with their aspirations and goals. Therefore, the respite-like services must meet this criterion and then the amount included in a plan will be based on the level of support required.
What is Short Term Accommodation?
Short-term Accommodation (STA) refers to supports previously referred to as ‘respite’. STA describes supports provided for a limited period of time, typically delivered in a residential house, unit or flat. In some instances, the provider might book an apartment at a hotel.
It can be provided as additional support in your own home by some organisations. Some organisations will only provide STA to adults, others only to children, some offer services to both.
What if you do not have an NDIS package?
Some providers offer short-term accommodation at Fee-for-Service. This service will have a support ratio. It might be 1:3, and it might be 1:1 depending on the organisation.
In an NDIS plan -
The funding stream comes from Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life
What does STA include?
- Specialised around the clock support staff
- Medications and personal care
- Accessible environment
- Meals
- Social activities and
- Overnight and short stays
What do the changes mean for me?
Accessing the NDIS and independent assessments
If you have a disability, and think you might be eligible for the NDIS, you can start the access process and provide us with details of your age and Australian residency as well as evidence of your disability. This evidence needs to show that your impairment is, or is likely to be, permanent.
A person at the NDIA will review your application, and if you meet the initial eligibility criteria of age, residency and permanency of disability, we’ll refer you to an assessor for an independent assessment.
If you don’t meet the age, residency or permanency eligibility rules of the NDIS, we won’t ask you to do an independent assessment.
Referring you for an independent assessment is the main change to the access process, and we’ll start doing this for NDIS applicants from mid-2021.
After it is completed, your assessor will send your independent assessment to the NDIA, and we’ll use this information to help us make a decision about whether you meet the access requirements of the NDIS. We’ll let you know what the decision is.
If you don’t agree with our decision, the same review and appeals process is still available to you.
Improving the National Disability Insurance Scheme
- From the CEO 12 October 2020 Martin Hoffman, NDIA CEO, has released an open letter to all participants, their families and carers. https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/5356-improving-national-disability-insurance-scheme
Facts about introducing independent assessments:
Independent assessments give a simpler, faster and fairer basis for making decisions about access to the NDIS and plans.
We will be introducing free independent assessments for people over seven years old who are applying for the Scheme for the first time from early next year, and then at some plan reviews for existing participants from the middle of 2021. Independent assessments for children less than seven will also start in 2021.
Independent assessments will not be needed every year or at every plan review. They’ll be needed only when there is a major change in your life or plan.
Assessments will be free because you told us that costs involved in getting assessments and evidence to support your applications and reviews often put you out of pocket.
We are creating a panel of assessors, health professionals like
- occupational therapists,
- physiotherapists,
- speech pathologists,
- clinical and registered psychologists,
- rehabilitation counsellors and
- social workers who will work at arm’s length from the NDIA.
The tools have been designed to assess the capability of people with disability and used all over the world for many years. They also take into account your particular circumstances and environment.
You can do the assessment in one session or many. Where possible, you can choose which assessor you want from the panel and whether you prefer a male or female assessor. You can complete the assessment by video call or in person. You can have someone with you, like a family member, support worker, or your current health professional.
If you do not agree with an NDIA decision from an independent assessment you can request a review or appeal.
Your doctor or other health professionals you know will still be involved in your application to the NDIS, and if further evidence is needed at a plan review. You will be able to submit any extra information you think is important. Your planner or Local Area Coordinator will still talk with you about your life including the impact of multiple disabilities, your goals, family supports and living arrangements to make sure we get a complete picture of your goals and support needs.
You will still have choice over the providers and types of supports you need to pursue your goals.
Feel you need more support?
It’s normal to feel sad or worried sometimes, especially when life gets tough. Sometimes, you might need some help to feel better again. If you’re struggling with your mind, support is available. There are a range of services and organizations that can help.
Personal care supports: https://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/operational-guidelines/including-specific-types-supports-plans-operational-guideline/including-specific-types-supports-plans-operational-guideline-personal-care-supports
Personal care supports relate to assistance with daily personal activities including assistance with, or supervision of, personal tasks of daily life. For example:
- personal hygiene, including showering, bathing, oral hygiene, dressing and grooming;
- toileting, bladder and bowel management and menstrual care;
- eating and drinking;
- attending appointments;
- use of aids and appliances, hearing and communication devices;
- mobility and transferring, for example moving in and out of bed and on or off the toilet; or
- application of splints, basic first aid due to injuries sustained as a result of a participant’s disability.
When personal care supports are being considered, the NDIA will have regard to the degree to which these supports:
- maximize the independence and functional skills of the participant;
- are appropriate to the participant’s age and circumstances; and
- whether alternative arrangements or supports could meet a participant’s needs in a less intrusive manner. For example, aids and equipment may enable a participant to complete tasks for themselves or the provision of training may increase the participant’s independence in the tasks.
Personal care supports are likely to be supports which assist a participant to pursue a number of different goals, rather than being related to a specific goal.
13 August 2020
Answering the most googled questions about the NDIS
Last updated: 11 March 2020
When it comes to the NDIS - people generally have a lot of questions. It’s big, it’s complex, and it can be a lot to wrap your head around. We hear you!In this blog, we will take a look at the NDIS questions people are typing into Google’s helpful little search bar – so you’ve got all the answers, and all in one place.
Is the NDIS means tested?
No, and this is for good reason.
The NDIS will look at the supports you need, based on your disability, and won’t take your income and assets into account. It’s been designed this way so that everyone gets the support they need and so no one is left behind.
Click on https://www.endeavour.com.au/media-news/blog/answering-the-most-googled-ndis-questions
for your answers to a lot of other questions you may have about the NDIS.
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How do I find NDIS providers in my area?
Are you looking for providers in your area?
This animation helps you to use the provider finder tool to locate services and providers in your area.
- Watch the animation
08 November 2019
Managing your Support Budgets:-
https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/managing-your-plan/support-budgets-your-plan
Watch the videos:-
There are three types of support budgets that may be funded in your NDIS plan:
- Core Supports budget
- Capacity Building Supports budget
- Capital Supports budget
An Local Area Coordinator for the NDIS once told me a brilliant way to explain the difference between the three budgets. Here it is:
If someone needs help showering, here’s how the three budgets could help out:
Core – Could provide a Support Worker to assist with showering.
Capital – Could provide modifications (like a handrail) to the shower to make it more accessible.
Capacity building – A support worker or program to teach the person skills and ways to improve their showering or hygiene.
https://www.endeavour.com.au/media-news/blog/ndis-funding-categories-explained
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Independent Assessments: frequently asked questions
We know independent assessments are a big change for people applying to access the NDIS, and for existing participants. And we understand that change can create uncertainty. We’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions on our website.
That’s why the Minister for the NDIS, Stuart Robert, has announced independent assessments will be introduced in 2021 now. We want to give applicants to the NDIS, existing participants and the disability community time to prepare for the introduction of independent assessments.
We are committed to working with participants, their families and carers, peak bodies, disability organisations and peer and family networks between now and the start of independent assessments, to make sure they work effectively for participants.
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SELF-MANAGING
It’s important to understand the difference in the budgets - especially if you are self-managing. There are 15 support categories that sit under the three support purposes.
Do scroll down a bit for a break-down:
https://www.endeavour.com.au/media-news/blog/ndis-funding-categories-explained
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Are you looking for NDIS Providers in your area?
This video outlines how to use the provider finder tool to find services and providers in your area.
Watch now!
Searching for and signing up to a service provider is stressful, so to then discover it isn’t really the right fit can cause added anxiety. If you are unhappy with the support and services you are receiving, your goals have changed or you move away, there are a number of steps to consider to maintain a sense of calm and dignity for all parties concerned. As with most situations needing attention, talking is a good start. Meet with your service provider and discuss the aspect of service in question. It could be something like less of a clean in one area to allow for a deeper clean in another or matching expectations of the cleaning done. Issues such as numbers of hours may be more difficult to negotiate without also increasing costs. If the situation becomes untenable then the next step is to end your service agreement and switch to a different service provider.
The following is a checklist to assist in making the change to another provider. • If talking to your service provider makes you nervous or distressed then it might be a good idea to have a trusted friend or independent advocate accompany you to the meeting.
• If you’re still dissatisfied and ending your agreement is the only option then putting it in writing is strongly recommended. Handwritten, typed up or emailed, either way provides a written record that the request exists. A clear explanation, including the date should suffice and request an acknowledgement of your request in writing. This ‘paper trail’ may be necessary in the future. Any service agreement will have terms and conditions stating if termination is immediate or after the date of notification eg. two weeks.
If you are agency managed then the current service provider must end their service booking on the MyPlace portal. Doing so will cease the service 14 days minimum after the date that the provider makes a request and so giving them time to make claims for any outstanding services. Don’t delay in doing this step. • In some situations, you may need to contact the NDIA and request an end to the service booking. This is where a written record of your original request can be helpful.
• If you haven’t already now would be a good time to reassess your life situation and the reasons for a change. The decisions you make now could have farreaching benefits. Think about how you want your services delivered, day of the week, time of the day, frequency, length of time for each service. Such factors will help to make it clear what you want when you meet potential new service providers.
• Depending upon the change in circumstance a notification to the NDIA may be required. Changes include, to your support needs, your informal care arrangements, any application for compensation for injury or a move of residence. Such changes may affect your access request, your status as a participant in the NDIS or your plan. Our Information Line is available Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm (AEST) so if you have a query please call our Information Officers who are here to answer your questions. We can help you find service providers in your area.
NDIS CONTACT DETAILS: www.ndis.gov.au 1800 800 110
https://www.ideas.org.au/images/resources/Newsletters/2020/Newsletter_of_IDEAS_-_March_April_2020_-_web.pdf
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A set of useful handouts that give you more detail on the topics covered in the “Getting the Most Out of Your NDIS Plan” Information Session.
This Information Pack includes 16 handouts, all of these are available in PDF and Word, with the exception of handout 9 which is available in PDF format only.
Please contact us by email at [email protected] or by calling 1800 219 969 if you have any trouble accessing the handouts.
Frequently asked questions:
We are listening to your questions and regularly updating the FAQ’s on our website. Over the past two weeks we have added FAQ’s about:
- Your plan: including answers about the NDIA calling to check in on you to make sure you can still access supports in your plan.
- Using your budget: including answers about low cost assistive technology (AT), consumables funding, transport funds and mental health support.
- Support workers and you: including answers about support workers and using funding for prepared meals to be sent to you
- Participants employed in an Australian Disability Enterprise (ADE): including answers about using your employment supports during the pandemic, going to work during the pandemic and JobKeeper payments.
1.1 Plan management
If the NDIA agrees that the participant has the requisite capacity, then the participant can self-manage their budget, in which case they pay providers directly for the services they receive and are reimbursed by the NDIA from their personalised budget.
Participants who are not self-managing can choose to appoint (and use some of the funds in their personalised budget to pay for) a plan manager. In this case, the plan manager pays the providers who deliver services to the participants (with the participant retaining choice of service provider) and is reimbursed by the NDIA from the participant’s budget.
All other participants have their budgets managed by the NDIA (Agency-managed). In this case, the participant’s providers are paid directly by the NDIA from the participant’s budget, while the participant still chooses their providers and the supports they purchase.
Where a provider is paid directly by the NDIA – that is, where the funding is Agency-managed – the provider is required to be registered with the NDIA (in WA) or with the NDIS Commission, meet specified quality and safeguarding standards, and agree to standard terms and conditions of business – including price caps. These restrictions do not apply to providers who are paid directly by self-managing participants or by plan-managers on behalf of participants.
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Mental Health and the NDIS
An estimated 600,000 Australians live with severe and persistent mental illness of which approximately 64,000 will be eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Key points:
- Mental illness that affects your ability to perform daily tasks is called psychosocial disability
- The NDIS may be able to support you with daily living
- Finding the right support can gel with living a fulfilling life
Psychosocial disability
If you have a mental illness that is affecting your ability to live a fulfilling life, you may be able to receive NDIS support.
It is important to note the NDIS does not fund therapy to address symptoms of mental illness but rather funds ongoing functional support for daily living. This support could include getting to a medical appointment, assistance in finding a suitable house, searching for a job, guidance in taking medication or help to prepare meals.
Mental health illness that affects your ability to perform daily activities is known as psychosocial disability. With the right support you can live a fulfilling life.
Some psychosocial disabilities include:
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
Importance of support for psychosocial disability
According to 2015 statistics collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 94.9 percent of people living with psychosocial disability said they needed assistance or were experiencing difficulty with daily living tasks.
The three most common areas people needed assistance with were making decisions and maintaining relationships (84.9 percent), mobility (54.8 percent) and health care (50.7 percent). Finding and accessing the right support for people with psychosocial disability is so important as poor mental health often has a flow-on effect through unemployment, homelessness and further health complications, for example not being able to look after yourself through self-care and personal hygiene.
In 2005, almost three-quarters of the 151,900 employed Australians with psychosocial disability aged between 15 and 64 years old, reported restrictions because of their disability, such as inability to work, restricted hours or restrictions in what type of work was undertaken.
“Individuals who find it hard to do the things they enjoy such as getting out and about in their community, preparing food, going on holidays or perhaps even having a job they enjoy, can feel disconnected and isolated,” Marketing Manager, Dana Cole from Open Minds, a mental health and disability support provider says.
“By accessing support to do the things you like, you can feel supported, have someone to turn to when you have a difficult situation or even just have someone with you to break down social barriers by going to new places for the first time can really help you achieve your goals.”
For more information contact the Health Department in your State or Territory:
Queensland - Queensland Government 1300 642 255 qld.gov.au/health/mental-health
Accessing the in 6 Steps.
Step 1
What is Psychosocial Disability
Step 2
Understand the NDIS
Step 3
Check if you can access the NDIS
Step 4
Apply for NDIS support
Step 5
Reimagine your life
Step 6
Plan with the NDIS
Remember, ‘psychosocial disability’ is just a term used by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) to describe the ways that a mental health condition may impact on your life. It is only one way to express these experiences and it might be very different to how you would describe it.
Do you know how to get a mental health care plan? Looking after your mental health is always important, and getting a mental health care plan means you have more access to help and support.
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Mental health support lines
If you or someone you know requires urgent support, the following services may be able to assist.
Triple Zero: 000
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Beyond Blue Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service: 1800 512 348
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS): 1800 177 833
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
eHeadspace: 1800 650 890
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
1300 MH CALL: 1300 642 255
MHLAW QLD, A NEW MENTAL HEALTH LEGAL DIRECTORY
ADA Australia in partnership with Queensland Advocacy Incorporated (QAI) has launched a new online mental health legal directory MHLaw Qld - www.mhlawqld.com.au
MHLaw Qld is a one-stop directory where you will find comprehensive information and services that can help you navigate legal and other issues which impact people experiencing mental health issues in Queensland.
Lawyers, mental health professionals as well as people living with a mental health condition and their supporters can now easily:
- find local legal and community support services who can help with common legal issues
- get answers to frequently asked questions
- find information to help navigate issues under the Mental Health Act, including step-by-step flow charts
- access information on mental health recovery and clinical practice guidelines
- access information about understanding capacity and decision-making
Q. Are you an NDIS participant looking for support workers OR are you an NDIS provider looking for new staff?
https://www.ndis.gov.au/coronavirus/finding-support-workers#matching
We know that NDIS participants and their families; and NDIS providers may be looking for workers to deliver much needed disability supports, and provide extra cover in these times. The NDIA encourages participants and providers to look to the matching platforms listed here so they can quickly and easily access the support workers they need: These businesses provide access to thousands of available and qualified support workers right across Australia.
These matching platforms have thousands of available and approved support workers across Australia.
30 April 2020
How to find Service Providers?
17 April 2020
Whether you’re new to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or wanting to change supports, finding a service provider can be a frustrating process. Simply, how do you find what’s out there? And what do you do once you’ve found them?
In this blog, we’re going to step you through the process. We’ll show you how to find potential providers, what questions you should ask them, and how to sign them up. It’s the complicated made simple! If you have any specific questions, comment below, drop us an email at [email protected] or call us on 1800 414 616. But in the meantime, let’s show you how to find your perfect provider.
Where do you find service providers?
The NDIS has turned the disability sector into one big ‘marketplace’, where you can look around and choose a provider that suits you. Cool, right? It’s all about giving you choice and control.
You can ask your support coordinators or local area coordinators (LACs) to help you navigate this ‘marketplace’, but what if you wanted feedback about a service before you agreed to use them? Or wanted a virtual marketplace to look at yourself?
This is where Clickability comes in. We’re an online service directory that lists the different providers you can use. This includes:
- support workers,
- physiotherapists,
- occupational therapists,
- speech pathologists,
- psychologists,
- gardeners,
- cleaners,
- and much more.
Imagine you’ve found a cleaner to de-clutter your home. Or a handyman who can fix that rotting ramp. Or a store that sells cheap consumables. But none of them is registered with the NDIS. Can you still use your NDIS funds to pay for their services? If you’re plan managed (or self-managed), the good news is you can! If it’s relevant to your Plan, the NDIS has ensured that you can access ‘mainstream’ services and use your funds to pay for them, ensuring choice and control remains yours. Cool, huh?
But if you’re using a service that has never interacted with the NDIS, you might be wondering what you need to do for them to get paid. This step-by-step guide reveals all.
Even better, people with disability and their carers can review service providers they’ve used before. This means when you search providers, you can read other people’s reviews of that service.
To find a service, head to www.clickability.com.au and type in the search on the homepage. If you want to narrow your search, you can select a category (e.g. ‘personal care’), the type of funding you wish to use to access a service (e.g. your NDIS funds) or enter your postcode!
What questions should you ask them?
Once you’ve found a service provider, you might want to ask them some further questions to ensure they’re a good match. If you’ve spoken to one of our team, we might already have answered some of these for you, but they’re good to keep in mind:
- For all categories,
- what’s the provider’s minimum shift length?
- What is their $ rate?
- Do they ask to see your Plan before taking you on as a client?
- For support worker agencies,
- does the provider allow you to give your preferences for support workers? (E.g. male/female or age.)
- For plan management providers,
- do they make you approve every invoice before paying?
- Or provide you with a dash to check your spending?
These are just a few of the questions you can ask, but they’ll give you a better gauge of whether a provider is the right fit for you. And remember: what might be right for me might not to be right for you. For instance, I like not having to approve every invoice that goes to my plan manager; I prefer checking via a dash. However, you might want to approve every invoice. Think about your preferences when talking to a provider.
Clickability is an Australian disability service directory that features ratings and reviews from people with disabilities. The comments and reviews published are not our own, and we are not liable for then. Please read our Terms & Conditions for more info.
Need help? Call us on 1800 414 616 or email [email protected]
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NDIA Gaslighting Group Providers
You wouldn’t know it by their tone, but the changes that the NDIA have announced to group services pricing are massive and have the potential to be a disaster. Evie explores why the new pricing system is likely to leave both participants and providers worse off.
Update 26 June: The NDIA have announced that group providers will have 12 months to transition to these new pricing arrangements. Providers can choose to use either the new pricing arrangements or continue using the 2019-20 pricing structure until 1 July 2021.
New Price Guide for 2020-21 Released!
The NDIA has just released the new price guide for the next financial year. And it includes some BIG changes (and oddly, no updated pricing). Evie dives into what it will mean for providers and participants.
Core Funding Is Now More Flexible Than Ever Before
The NDIA quietly dropped the news on Friday that Core funding has just been made completely flexible for plan and agency managed participants. And yes, even transport! Evie has the details.
NDIS Subject Matter Specialists The NDIS is seriously complex, so we have broken our consulting and training down into discrete areas, each with DSC Subject Matter Specialists: expert consultants that know the detail, understand the specific challenges and have the right tools to assist.
Check out their links... to find out more about their specialist NDIS work.
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What is the NDIS Demand Map?
The NDIS Demand Map provides an up to date forecast of the NDIS demand by postcode across Australia.
Use the map to find out:
- How many NDIS participants are expected to live in a postcode.
- How much participants are expected to spend, and on what types of support.
- How many workers may be required to meet participant needs and preferences.
NDIS market demand information available:
Queensland Government welcomes the release of the of the NDIS Demand Map - a tool which shows projected demand for disability services under the NDIS, by location. Now click on the "See Demand" green box RHS on bottom on picture and put in your Postcode to see the interactive map of YOUR area. Statistics for That Area appear to the left of the screen... Now, move the mouse to see any other Area of interest. Just click on that part of the map and the Statistics will change to show details of That Area... Change the Postcode, or just move the mouse and click to see the details of 'That Area'...
What is the NDIS Demand Map?
Showing projected demand for disability services under the NDIS, by location...
The NDIS Demand Map is a new data analytics tool that provides information to help providers to grow in the NDIS.
Use the NDIS Demand Map to help understand the services and locations NDIS participants may choose by 2023.
Expected annual demand for services (including GST), by 2023
The NDIS Demand Map provides an up to date forecast of the NDIS demand by postcode across Australia.
Use the map to find out:
- How many NDIS participants are expected to live in a postcode.
- How much participants are expected to spend, and on what types of support.
- How many workers may be required to meet participant needs and preferences.
Appendix A: How do the demand map categories reflect the NDIS registration groups?
The NDIS Demand Map is a key element of the Growing the NDIS Market and Workforce Strategy.
To see Demand Rate Category and Registration Groups, go to Appendix A: How do the demand map categories reflect the NDIS registration groups?
Research YOUR situation and YOUR interests: https://blcw.dss.gov.au/brochure
Queensland advocated for some time to have NDIS market demand information made available at a micro level to inform the market, and although this tool does not detail actual current demand - this information is incorporated into the forecasting model, and goes a long way to providing data to inform business strategy and plans.
Organisations can access, via postcode,
- estimates for participant numbers including primary disability,
- forecast expenditure by service categories, and
- the number and type of workers in the area which may be required to meet participant needs and preferences.
MHLaw Qld - www.mhlawqld.com.au - a one-stop directory where you will find information and services that can help you navigate legal and other issues which impact people experiencing mental health issues in Queensland.
MHLaw Qld provides practical tools for legal and mental health professionals, as well as people living with a mental health condition and their supporters and decision-makers.
You can access information about:
- common legal issues, and search by topic and postcode for legal and other services in your local area who can assist
- answers to frequently asked questions by lawyers, mental health professionals and people experiencing mental health issues, along with their supporters
- navigating issues under the Mental Health Act, including step-by-step flow charts
- mental health recovery and clinical practice guidelines
- understanding capacity and rights and responsibilities involved in supported decision-making.
Find out more about what’s available and how to use the site on this short video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doOOmP_pXLA
Psychosocial recovery coach
What is the change?
Since 1 July 2020, a new support item called the psychosocial recovery coach was available. Psychosocial recovery coaches will provide support to people with psychosocial disability to live a full life. People will be supported to take more control of their lives and to manage the complex challenges of day to day living.
How does it affect me?
This is a new support so it may take some time for the support to be widely available. If you are a participant with a psychosocial disability, you should speak with your LAC or Planner about if a psychosocial recovery coach is the right support for you.
Suffering a mental illness is more common than you might think. A quarter of people suffer mental health problems at some point, but what’s important is how those problems are dealt with. If problems are left to get worse and develop into further mental and physical health problems, it’s obviously not helpful. That’s why it’s so important to get help when you know you need it.
With the right kind of support, your mental health problems can be managed in a way that ensures you can live the life you want to, as can the people around you. There’s no reason why you can’t live independently with the help of an experienced and compassionate home carer who can help you in whatever ways necessary. It’s a solution that works for lots of people around the world.
At Home Caring, we make sure that you’re always in control of the kind of care we offer. We’ll tailor our care service to your specific needs because we know that each individual case is unique and your care needs won’t be the same as somebody else’s. We’re going to talk more about the mental illness care services we provide so keep reading. https://www.homecaring.com.au/mental-illness-care/
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RACGP Mental Health:
What is e-mental health? The term ‘electronic mental health’ (e-mental health) refers to the use of the internet and related technologies to deliver mental health information, services and care. The use of online interventions for the prevention and treatment of mental illness is one of the major applications of e-mental health. There is strong evidence to suggest that these e-mental health interventions are effective for use in the management of mild to moderate depression and anxiety, and can be disseminated in the primary care setting.
https://www.racgp.org.au/
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Mental Health and the NDIS
The National Disability Insurance Scheme comes into play when mental illness results in a psychosocial disability.
https://www.endeavour.com.au/media-news/blog/mental-health-and-intellectual-disability
‘Psychosocial disability’ is a term used when someone’s mental illness impacts on their ability to
- participate fully in life – work, education,
- community participation.
- Impairments can include a loss of ability to function, think clearly,
- experience full physical health, and
- manage the social and emotional aspects of their life.
- Firstly, everyone entering the NDIS has to meet the access criteria for age, location etc.
- Your psychiatric disability is likely to be permanent
- You are unable to take part effectively in daily life without the assistance of others
- You are likely to require support from the NDIS over your lifetime.
https://www.endeavour.com.au/media-news/blog/what-is-support-coordination-how-do-i-get-it
Please note: people with early signs of a psychiatric condition should still utilise the health system in the first instance, so that they can be diagnosed and the condition immediately managed.
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WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION:
Who is at risk from mental disorders? Determinants of mental health and mental disorders include not only individual attributes such as the ability to manage one's thoughts, emotions, behaviours and interactions with others, but also social, cultural, economic, political and environmental factors such as national policies, social protection, standards of living, working conditions, and community support.
Stress, genetics, nutrition, perinatal infections and exposure to environmental hazards are also contributing factors to mental disorders.
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UNITED NATIONS POLICY BRIEF: COVID-19 AND THE NEED FOR ACTION ON MENTAL HEALTH - 13 May 2020
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What is a telehealth video consultation? Telehealth video consultation patient pamphlet (DOCX 65 KB)
A telehealth video consultation is a consultation between a patient and their GP (or practice nurse/Aboriginal health worker) at one location and a specialist located at another location.
Advantages of telehealth video consultations
Every patient’s situation is different but in general, the benefits of this service include:
- improved access to specialist care
- reduced waiting time to see your specialist
- reduced travel time and costs
- reduced absence from work.
How can I have a telehealth video consultation with my specialist?
To have a telehealth video consultation with your specialist, you must be referred by your GP and the clinicians must consider it safe and suitable for you. Not all specialists offer telehealth video consultations – your GP will discuss options with you.
Do I have to participate?
No. You are able to attend a face-to-face consultation with your specialist if you prefer. A telehealth video consultation will only happen if your clinicians consider it safe and suitable and you are happy to participate in a telehealth video consultation.
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Has the NDIS setup an Emergency Hotline for urgent requirements for participants?
The NDIS Contact Centre remains the best option for contacting us. Call the Contact Centre on 1800 800 110, Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm (local time). Select option 5 for plan enquiries related to COVID-19.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) information and support
- Latest advice from NDIS
- For participants - coronavirus (COVID-19) Expand or collapse sub-menu for For participants - coronavirus (COVID-19)
- What happens when
- For providers - coronavirus (COVID-19) Expand or collapse sub-menu for For providers - coronavirus (COVID-19)
- NDIS office operations
Another way to talk to us:
We have improved webchat, a ‘live chat’ service on our website you can use to talk to NDIS staff.
All you have to do is verify your identity and we can help you with your personal circumstances. For example, if you want to know about your NDIS plan, you can now use webchat instead of calling.
To start a webchat session, go to our Contact page, from 8am to 8pm AEDT Monday to Friday.
To learn more about webchat, contact us on 1800 800 110, email [email protected] or visit our 'Another way to talk to us' page.
30 March 2020
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Pricing updates from 1 July 2020 - Cancellation rules
What is the change?
From 1 July 2020, you will be charged 100 per cent of the agreed support price if you do not attend your service or cancel a service at short notice.
The NDIA temporarily increased the cancellation rate from 90 per cent to 100 per cent in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This change will be permanent from 1 July 2020.
From 1 July 2020, the definition of short notice cancellations returns to two business days for most supports.
How does it affect me?
Cancellation charges of 100 per cent will apply if you do not attend your service or support booking, or if you cancel at short notice.
Short notice cancellations are up to 10 business days due to the COVID-19 pandemic until 30 June 2020. From 1 July 2020, two business days' notice is required.
You should read the service agreement you have with your provider as it may have more information about cancellations.
Please direct queries to your local NDIA Provider Engagement team or email the NDIA.
Main navigation sidebar - for providers
- Becoming an NDIS provider - Expand or collapse sub-menu for Becoming an NDIS provider
- Working as a provider - Expand or collapse sub-menu for Working as a provider
- Price guides and pricing - Expand or collapse sub-menu for Price guides and pricing
- Housing and living supports and services - Expand or collapse sub-menu for Housing and living supports and services
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Other significant outcomes from the review include:
- The ability for providers to claim non-labour costs associated with travel, encouraging wider service delivery and greater choice for participants in regional and remote areas
- Simplification of the pricing arrangements for group-based supports and the introduction of programs of supports to offer more choices for participants
- Expand and diversify employment opportunities for participants.
- Media release from the Minister
NDIS Price Guide 2020-21 - effective 1 March 2021
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/talking-disability/ndia-announces-changes-to-covid-supports
The NDIS Price Guide and Support Catalogue 2020‒21 reflects the Annual Price Review and indexed prices as a result of the Fair Work Commission Annual Wage Review 2019‒20.
- Price Guide 2020-21 (DOCX 331KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide 2020-21 (PDF 2MB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide Schedule of Addenda (DOCX 50KB)
- Price Guide Schedule of Addenda (PDF 296KB)
- Price Guide Addendum (DOCX 63KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide Addendum (PDF 502KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Support Catalogue 2020-21 (CSV 410KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide 2020‒21 for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
- Assistive Technology, Home Modifications and Consumables Code Guide.
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The government is rolling back loadings on NDIS supports and will ask disability providers to pay back advance payments as the nation recovers from coronavirus. https://communitycarereview.com.au/2020/06/17/ndis-providers-must-pay-back-covid-cash-advance/
Stuart Robert NDIS minister Stuart Robert says the scheme will move into a post-COVID phase from July 1 following a review of temporary support measures announced during the pandemic. “With NDIS provider claiming patterns showing most supports have returned to pre-coronavirus levels, we are moving to the next phase of the response,” he said in a statement.
“We have worked to give participants and providers early notice on when things will gradually return, in light of our coronavirus response and recovery stages—and of course, we will continue to consult with participants and providers to ensure they have the support they need.’
Providers will have to pay back a collective $600 million in advance payments via monthly instalments from October 1. “Recovery of the advance payment to providers will commence on 1 October 2020, via six equal monthly instalments, so providers can plan their return to usual services well ahead of its commencement,” Mr Robert said.
Almost 5,000 providers who did not opt out received the one-off advance payment during April as a measure to assist cash flow and help keep services going during COVID.
The new look Price Guide aims to be clear and transparent about pricing arrangements and make it easier to find information for specific supports by including applicable line items and claiming rules within the one document. In addition to the Price Guide updates outlined as part of the Annual Price Review announcement on 3 June 2020, the Price Guide 2020‒21 also incorporates pricing details to support other significant initiatives from 1 July including:
- Psychosocial recovery coaches—to offer added support to participants with a psychosocial disability.
- Six new line items introduced to support participants to achieve outcomes.
- For more information visit the Psychosocial recovery page
- Individualised Living Options—two new line items, to give people with disability access to alternative living arrangements within the Assistance with Daily Living Support Category:
- Individualised Living Option – Exploration and Design
- Individualised Living Option – Support Model
- More information will be provided in July including the funding bands that will used when making this determination.
- Providers interested in further information about ILO can email the NDIA ILO Project Team at [email protected].
- Supported Independent Living (SIL)—set price limits for SIL supports will replace the current quoting and negotiation process.
- The NDIA is conducting a review of SIL price controls and endorsed recommendations will be included in a Price Guide released later this year, until this review is complete the price limits for assistance with daily living will apply to SIL supports.
- Existing plans containing agreed SIL quotes will continue until the end of their 12 month term, at which point the new SIL price limit will apply.
- A new SIL Provider Pack will be available on the NDIS website before 1 July 2020.
What is the NDIS Price Guide?
https://www.endeavour.com.au/media-news/blog/the-ndis-price-guide
An easy way to think of the NDIS price guide is it is a lot like a shopping catalogue of disability support services that are funded by the NDIS, complete with the maximum prices things can cost.
It’s a big document, but it’s also a very useful one. It allows you to see what support is available to you, gives you confidence that you are getting value for money from your plan and keeps you updated if NDIS prices change.
How to use the NDIS Price Guide
At over 100 pages, the National Disability Insurance Scheme Price Guide is a pretty intimidating document. However, there are ways to make navigating it easier and the more you reference it, the more familiar you will become with how it presents the information that’s relevant to you.
1) You won’t need to read it all
In fact, most of what you will be interested in is outlined in the second half of the guide, so you can skip through a lot of jargon to get to information you need.
2) Before you start, it helps to brush up your knowledge of NDIS funding types
Pricing is broken down into the type of service and categorised as either Core, Capital, or Capacity Building. If this isn’t sounding farmiliar at all, don’t worry, we have you covered – make sure you check out our blog “NDIS funding categories explained”. Once you wrap your head around the funding types, these sections are easy to identify in the Contents section at the front and if you click on them, they take you direct to the information you want. For instance, if you want to find out what you can spend on a dietitian, find this under “Capacity Building” in the contents and click through to see the price cap per hour allocated to this service.
3) Make use the index
The index makes it a lot easier to jump to sections that are relevant to you, but it can still be difficult to understand, especially if you are not sure exactly what you are looking for. For instance, you might want to find out if you can access funds for someone to help do your laundry, but might not realise this is listed under linen services. If you don’t understand the terms used, it’s pretty hard to know what you are looking for. Do you want to participate in “centre-based” or “community” group activities? And are the activities “standard” or “high intensity”? Until you get used to the type of supports you want, what they involve and how they are described in “NDIS-speak” it can be daunting.
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Transferring from the NDIS to My Aged Care
Last Updated at November 8th 2021
Making sure you have continuity of care that fits your personal needs is really important as you age, especially if you have specialist needs due to a disability.
Key points:
- By the age of 65, two in five people have a disability of some kind
- Once you turn 65, you will need to decide if you remain on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or switch to the Government's aged care system
- If you decide to stay with the NDIS, you can only receive the same supports
You can remain on the NDIS once you turn 65, however, there are some situations where you have to move to the aged care system. [Source: Shutterstock]If you're already on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) when you turn 65, you will have to decide whether you stay on the NDIS or whether you transfer to My Aged Care to fund your care needs.
The Australian Network on Disability (AND) says the likelihood of living with a disability increases as you age. In fact, two in five people aged 65 and over have a disability and that increases to eight in ten people once you are aged 90 and over.
It is vital you have the right supports in place to make sure your disability, whether newly acquired or existing, is cared for as you age.
The NDIS and My Aged Care
The NDIS provides funding and support to access important disability services for people with disability, their families and carers.
Similarly, My Aged Care is the portal for accessing Government-funded aged care services, whether that is help at home, temporary services, or moving into an aged care facility.
Aged care services can cover a wide range of supports that would assist people with disability and your care plan is developed to include care that meets your needs, this should include your disability.
To qualify for the NDIS you must be 65 years of age or under, so if you lived with disability before reaching 65, then you may have been receiving disability support through the NDIS already. But if you develop a disability after you turn 65, you can only access the My Aged Care services available, such as in home care, Home Care Packages, or residential aged care.
How to transferOnce you turn 65, you will be given a choice between staying on the NDIS or moving to aged care services through My Aged Care.
However, if you are already living in a residential aged care facility or receiving ongoing home care assistance while on the NDIS by the time you turn 65, then you will be moved to the Commonwealth aged care system automatically.
Depending on what you require, you may be eligible for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), a Home Care Package (HCP), or to move into residential care. You will need to be assessed through My Aged Care to determine what supports you need.
The level of funding you receive can change when you change over from the NDIS to Government subsidised aged care, but will still meet your care needs with an emphasis on assisting you to live independently.
While participants on the NDIS are not means tested, which means you receive care based on your disability and need rather than your ability to pay for it, Government funded aged care services are means tested. This could mean that if you have too many assets or your own money, you may not be eligible to receive Government-subsidised aged care.
To contact My Aged Care for more information about transitioning, contact the Call Centre on 1800 200 422.
I want to stay on the NDIS or same supportsIf you want to stay on the NDIS after you turn 65, you can do this as long as you don't have an increase in care needs, receive home care services on a regular basis, or move into aged care.
This option is only available if you were receiving the NDIS before you turned 65. If you have a disability that started on or after your turn 65, you will not be able to access the NDIS.
However, if you were 65 and over when the NDIS began its roll out, you could receive disability support through the Disability Support for Older Australians (DSOA) Program, replacing the Commonwealth Continuity of Support (CoS) Programme on 1 July 2021.
The DSOA is only available to people with disability who were eligible for the CoS Programme, which were people who were not eligible to receive the NDIS due to their age but received State and Territory Government disability support.
DSOA provides service coordinators to deliver support services and organise disability service providers for clients.
The services provided must meet the consumers goals and outcomes and can include supported independent living assistance, self-care assistance, short term accommodation assistance and respite, counselling, continence aid management with community nursing care, and more.
The Health Department facilitates the program, for more information visit their website.
To find out what your options are for aged care, visit the information section on the Aged Care Guide.
When you turn 65, do you want to remain on the NDIS or move to the aged care system? Tell us in the comments below.
Related content:
What is a Home Care Package (HCP)?
Choosing a home care provider
Assessment and eligibility for aged care services
Assistive Technology, Home Modifications and Consumables Code Guide
The Assistive Technology, Home Modifications and Consumables Code Guide lists the most commonly used supports. It is not a comprehensive list of all supports that may be provided as reasonable and necessary under the NDIS.
- NDIS Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Code Guide 2021-22 - effective 1 July 2021
Price guide and Support Catalogue update
The NDIS Price Guide and Support Catalogue have been updated, effective 12 January 2021. Read more on the Price guides and pricing page.
Changes announced 27 April 2020
- To ensure continuity in NDIS funded supports and services during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we have temporarily broadened the flexible approach for low cost AT items.
- To support participants living in Supported Independent Living arrangements during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we have introduced two new support items for cleaning services and higher intensity support.
- To better support people with disabilities to apply to the NDIS while maintaining physical distancing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we have made our ARF and Supporting Evidence Form available for download on our website.
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NDIS Access Request Form now available to download
27 April 2020
The NDIS is making it easier for eligible Australians with disability to apply for the Scheme.
Anyone who thinks they might be eligible for the NDIS can download an Access Request Form (ARF) from our website to apply for the NDIS.
The NDIS Supporting Evidence Form (SEF) is also now available online. This is the form potential participants can use to collect supporting information if the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) requests more information to assess the person’s eligibility for the NDIS.
Potential participants can work with their GP, allied health, and specialist medical professionals to prepare and provide the information required.
Anyone who thinks they are eligible for the NDIS can apply by:
- phoning 1800 800 110 and making a verbal access request, or
- downloading and completing the ARF on their computer and emailing to the NDIA with supporting information, or
- downloading the ARF on their computer, printing out, and mailing to the NDIA with supporting information, or
- emailing [email protected] and asking for an ARF to be mailed to them, or
- contacting your local NDIA office and asking for an ARF to be mailed to them.
NDIS watchdog to get more teeth 09 June 2020
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commissioner will get new beefed-up powers to ban unsuitable providers and workers from the NDIS.
NDIS minister Stuart Robert said the new laws, which will are set to be introduced into parliament, are designed to reinforce protections for NDIS participants. “The NDIS Commissioner, who is responsible for regulating NDIS providers and enforcing the NDIS Code of Conduct, will be granted additional banning powers to prevent people who may pose a risk of harm to participants from entering or re-entering the NDIS,” Mr Robert said in a statement.
The legislation will give NDIS Commissioner Graeme Head power to ban people from the NDIS even if they are not currently working in the scheme or if they have been fired for poor behaviour. It also means the commissioner will be able to use information from outside the NDIS, such as a person’s conduct in aged or child care, to deem them ineligible to enter the NDIS. Details of providers and workers who have been blacklisted will be publically available in the NDIS provider register.
“People with disability, their supporters and providers can use the Register to check that the people they are engaging to deliver NDIS services have not had a banning order against them,” Mr Robert said.
I have NDIS funding...what now?
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/information/article/i-have-ndis-funding-what-now
If you have been approved for funding through the NDIS you will be contacted by a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to discuss your first plan. This planning meeting can be held over the phone, in an LAC office or the LAC representative can come to your home.
Find a list of providers of different services organised in different categories and by location. You can search for therapists and specialists in your area, different aids and equipment and connect with a range of advisors and support services.
Choosing an Online Service Provider
Last Updated: 30 April 2020
There are web-based platforms and mobile applications that act as online service providers.
They are a medium to connect People with Disability to Support Workers and Carers.
To help you choose a provider we have some questions you can ask, about safety, choice, payments and insurance.
Do scroll down the page for a short list of online service providers.
I don't have NDIS funding
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/information/article/i-dont-have-ndis-funding
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NDIS Response - What is the NDIS doing to help participants?
Written by Hillary Wilde Category: Latest News Last Updated: 30 March 2020
- NDIS plans to be extended by up to 24 months, ensuring continuity of support and increasing capacity of NDIA staff to focus on urgent and required changes to plans.
- Face-to-face planning shifted to telephone meetings where possible
- Action plan to ensure NDIS participants and their families continue to receive the essential disability supports they need.
- Proactive outreach to high-risk participants and sharing of data with states and territories to ensure continuity of supports.
- Financial assistance to providers to support retention of workers including advance payments, 10 per cent COVID-19 loading on some supports and changes to cancellation policies.
The NDIA is working with the Department of Social Services (DSS), Services Australia and NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission (NQSC) as well as health agencies to deliver on our Pandemic Plan in line with the Government’s Emergency Response Plan.
If you are an NDIS participant, visit Coronavirus Information for NDIS participants
If you are a service provider, you can check our article on Coronavirus Supports for NDIS providers
For more information, visit the NDIS and disaster response page. Stuart Robert MP, Minister for the NDIS has made a statement ensuring NDIS participants that plans are in place to ensure continuity of supports throughout the pandemic.
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NDIS providers are individuals or organisations that deliver a support or service to a participant of the NDIS.
Registration for operators who are seeking to become NDIS providers will be streamlined from next year in a move that the government says will benefit speech pathologists, OTs and assistive technology providers.
Stuart Robert NDIS Minister Stuart Robert says the changes to the NDIS Provider Registration and Practice Standards, which come in response to feedback from across the disability sector, will ease disproportionate regulatory burdens faced by some sole traders.
In particular, the changes will benefit providers of low risk supports such as:
- therapies,
- home modification and
- specialist equipment
Home modifications are changes to the structure, layout or fittings of a participant’s home so they safely access it and move around comfortably in areas they frequently use.
Home modifications may be included in your plan if:
- due to the impact of your disability, you or your carers cannot reasonably access and use frequently used rooms and spaces in your primary residence;
- your primary residence, in its current condition, has significant and adverse impacts on the sustainability of current living and care arrangements; and
- a suitably qualified Occupational Therapist has performed an assessment and recommended home modifications, considering all possible alternatives, including the use of equipment.
As with any building work, there are laws and regulations that need to be adhered to when undertaking home modifications under the Scheme. Further detail is available in the Operational Guidelines.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-equipment-and-supports/home-modifications-explained
11 February 2020
Currently all providers that are bodies corporate are required to undergo a certification audits, regardless of the level of risk associated with their services.
From January 2020 audit requirements will be solely based on risk level. Mr Robert says the changes will cut red tape for small businesses seeking to become NDIS providers without watering down safeguards.
https://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/2019/12/16/govt-says-ndis-registration-changes-will-cut-red-tape/
16 December 2019
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The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has released several resources to give participants, providers and assessors clearer guidelines about assistance animals funding requests with updates to the Operational Guideline. The ‘Including Specific Types of Supports in Plans’ Operational Guideline now includes a section on assistance animals, to help explain what supporting evidence planners need when considering funding requests for assistance animals. There are also clear definitions and examples of assistance animals for participants, providers and assessors. There is also a new Assistance Animals assessment template, which will improve the quality of requests from participants, assessors and providers.
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Queensland consumer peak The Queensland Government is committed to ensuring the voices of people with a lived experience of mental ill-health are heard at all levels of the mental health system.
To support this, a new Queensland mental health consumer peak representative organisation is being established, to be operational in the first half of 2021. Queensland Health has funded the establishment of the new organisation, and the Commission will manage all aspects of implementation.
The work will be led by people with lived experience – through project management, governance, and broader engagement processes.
Strategic importance
The establishment of the mental health consumer peak body aligns with key state and national strategic frameworks, including:
- The Queensland Government’s Shifting minds Strategic Plan 2018-2023 – which identifies engaging people with lived experience as equal partners in policy, planning and governance as a strategic priority for whole-of-system improvement
- Queensland Health’s Connecting Care to Recovery 2016–2021 – which has a key focus on lived experience engagement and participation in policy; and
- The Fifth National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan – which states that “consumers and carers should be at the centre of, and enabled to take an active role in shaping, the way in which services are planned, delivered and evaluated”.
Prioritising your mental health is important in difficult times. If you are feeling worried or anxious about COVID-19 there are steps you can take. Find out more at Head to Health's COVID‑19 support page.
and
Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service
https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/
A new 24/7 support service specifically designed to help people through the COVID-19 pandemic is now available free of charge to all Australians.
The Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service has been developed by Beyond Blue to address the growing mental health impact of the pandemic, including fear about the virus, financial stress, family stress, anxiety and loneliness.
The service offers easy access to a broad range of practical supports from online wellbeing tips, self-help tools to phone counselling from trained mental health professionals and peer to peer support.
You can read a full statement from Minister for Health, Greg Hunt MP on how the Australian Government is funding this service.
Get help
If you aren’t coping, it is important to get help. If life is in danger, call 000.
Contact:
Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service - Beyond Blue
Phone: 1800 512 348
Web: coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au
Lifeline
Phone: 13 11 14
Web: www.lifeline.org.au
MindSpot - Coronavirus (COVID-19)
MindSpot is a free digital mental health service. It provides online and telephone assessment and treatment for Australian adults with symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Phone: 1800 614 434
https://www.ideas.org.au/covid-blogs/look-after-your-mental-health-in-the-covid-19-crisis.html
Written by Hillary Wilde Last Updated: 14 April 2020
https://www.arafmi.com.au/family-carers-how-arafmi-can-help/support-groups/
Arafmi’s Support Groups provide a safe place for mental health carers to come together on a regular basis to share their feelings, socialise, offer comfort and support, and share helpful coping skills.
Online Support Groups
Because of the Coronavirus Pandemic, our face to face carer support groups have been temporarily postponed. However, we understand the importance of our support groups and have moved them online for the time being.
To participate in these meetings, you will need a device that connects to the internet and a reliable internet connection.
Meeting times are scheduled in (AEST) Australian Eastern Standard Time. If these times do not suit you, we also offer 1:1 phone support calls or we can also chat to you on email. To book a 1:1 phone call, please call our 24/7 Carer Helpline on 1300 554 660 or click here to email our Carer Support team.
It is important you register for the online support sessions, please fill in the registration form.
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https://www.arafmi.com.au/family-carers-how-arafmi-can-help/support-groups/
Arafmi’s Support Groups provide a safe place for mental health carers to come together on a regular basis to share their feelings, socialise, offer comfort and support, and share helpful coping skills.
Online Support Groups
Because of the Coronavirus Pandemic, our face to face carer support groups have been temporarily postponed. However, we understand the importance of our support groups and have moved them online for the time being.
Quick Links:
- Face to Face Carer Support Groups
- Online Carer Support Groups
- Support Group Guidelines
- Interested in facilitating a Support Group?
As you can appreciate, our ability to host to face to face support groups is reliant upon the venues we use for our groups. As these venues are opening back up and accepting their usual bookings, they are notifying us.
To book a 1:1 phone call, please call our 24/7 Carer Helpline on 1300 554 660 or click here to email our Carer Support team.
It is important you register for the online support sessions, please fill in the registration form.
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Arafmi Carer workshops
https://www.arafmi.com.au/family-carers-how-arafmi-can-help/workshops/
Arafmi’s Carer workshops are specifically designed for carers and families of people with a psychosocial disability. These workshops provide an opportunity to learn and practice the many skills used in providing care to another person with a mental illness.
What to expect? The interactive workshops are designed to help carers understand the impact of mental illness on their loved one; how to improve their relationship; how to develop caring skills, and how carers can keep themselves well emotionally in the long run.
There’s also an opportunity to connect with other carers who may be experiencing similar issues and learn from each other. The carer workshops go for 31/2 hours with a break for morning tea.
How to register for our carer workshops? If you’d like to attend one or more of our carer workshops, it is important that you register so that we have an idea of numbers for resources and catering. You can register online, or if you prefer you can call us on 07 3254 1881 or email us at [email protected]
How much does a workshop cost? Our online workshop are free. Our face to face workshops are free for members and $10 for non-members which we kindly ask you to bring on the day. We would encourage everybody to become an Arafmi member and receive a range of benefits for an investment of $10 (for waged) and $5 (non-waged) and to also help Arafmi with our fundraising for carer events. Click here to find out more about becoming a member.
How to register for our carer workshops? If you’d like to attend one or more of our carer workshops, it is important that you register so that we have an idea of numbers for resources and catering. You can register online, or if you prefer you can call us on 07 3254 1881 or email us at [email protected]
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NDIS Provider Newsletter:
https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/how-ndis-works/mental-health-and-ndis#new-evidence-of-psychosocial-disability-form
The following resources provide some introductory information on mental illness, mental health and disability. This includes information on diagnoses and associated symptoms, causes and contributing factors, legal systems and your rights. You will also find links to further information and support available for people experiencing mental health issues or disability, including families, friends and carers.
Browse the info sheets to find out more, or call Wellways on 1300 111 400 if you would like more information or have any further questions.
- Schizophrenia
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Personality disorders
- Psychosis
- Alcohol and other drug use
- Eating disorders
- Suicide
- Causes and contributing factors
- Mental health and the law
- Disability
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In addition to the Price Guide updates outlined as part of the Annual Price Review, the Price Guide 2020‒21 also incorporates pricing details to support other significant initiatives from 12 January 2021 including:
- Psychosocial recovery coaches—to offer added support to participants with a psychosocial disability.
- Six new line items introduced to support participants to achieve outcomes.
- For more information visit the mental health page
To find out more about how the NDIS can support people with psychosocial disability, watch the video below.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/how-ndis-works/mental-health-and-ndis#facsheets-and-resources
Accessing the NDIS
NDIS Mental Health Access Information - Plain English (PDF 248KB)
Access Snapshot 1: General Information (PDF 236KB)
Access Snapshot 2: Impairment and Mental Health in the NDIS (PDF 221KB)
Access Snapshot 3: Recovery and the NDIS (PDF 223KB)
Access Snapshot 4: Functional Capacity and Mental Health Issues (PDF 238KB)
Access Snapshot 5: NDIS and Other Services Supporting your Mental Health (PDF 211KB)
Access Snapshot 6: Providing evidence for NDIS eligibility (PDF 87KB)
These snapshots provide specific information to people with psychosocial disability, their families and carers, and service providers.
New: Evidence of Psychosocial Disability form
Evidence of Psychosocial Disability form (PDF 196KB) – to be completed by your most appropriate clinician, and your support worker or appropriate person.
This evidence form makes it easier for people with a psychosocial disability and supporters to collect evidence for NDIS eligibility.
It is important to note, you still need a completed Verbal Access Request (VAR) or Access Request Form (ARF). This form is a collaboration with the Department of Social Services funded Transition Support Project team at Flinders University.
Everyone who applies to the NDIS must meet eligibility criteria. These include age, residency and disability requirements. You must also live in an area where the NDIS is being rolled out.
To find out more go to How to apply.
Mental Health and the NDIS
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/information/article/mental-health-and-the-ndis
https://www.qld.gov.au/health/mental-health
An estimated 600,000 Australians live with severe and persistent mental illness of which approximately 64,000 will be eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). If you have a mental illness that is affecting your ability to live a fulfilling life, you may be able to receive NDIS support. It is important to note the NDIS does not fund therapy to address symptoms of mental illness but rather funds ongoing functional support for daily living. This support could include getting to a medical appointment, assistance in finding a suitable house, searching for a job, guidance in taking medication or help to prepare meals.
Mental health illness that affects your ability to perform daily activities is known as psychosocial disability. With the right support you can live a fulfilling life.
To be eligible for mental health support under the NDIS, you must first provide evidence of your psychosocial disability and how this impacts your life daily.
To be deemed eligible you must experience difficulties in doing at least one of the below areas, without support or with reduced functional capacity:
- Communication - being understood in spoken, written, or sign language, understanding others and the ability to express your needs.
- Social interaction - making and keeping friends, interacting with the community, behaving within limits accepted by others and the ability to cope with feelings and emotions in a social context.
- Learning - understanding and remembering information, learning new things, practising and using new skills.
- Mobility - your ability to move around the home and community to undertake ordinary activities of daily living requiring the use of limbs.
- Self-care - personal care, hygiene, grooming, feeding yourself and the ability to care for your own health care needs.
- Self-management - the cognitive capacity to organise one's life, to plan and make decisions, and to take responsibility for yourself, completing daily tasks, making decisions, problem-solving and managing your finances.
You may receive support through the NDIS in these areas to help you perform these tasks. Some examples of how NDIS can help include:
- Funding for therapies such as seeing a psychologist, counsellor, psychiatrist and/or social worker
- Transport to get to medical appointments and support groups
- Assistance in learning how to travel independently on public or private transport
- Support in setting personal and professional goals, budgeting and paying bills etc
- Self-care assistance, such as hygiene, showering and grooming
- Support to help you get out in your community to build friendships
- Assistance with shopping, meal preparation and cooking
- Support with cleaning around your house or garden
- Help to access Centrelink
- Assistance in finding the right accommodation for you (including organising support in the home if required)
- Support coordination and assistance with the NDIS.
Choice and Medication provide information leaflets about how common medication works, usual doses, side effects, and how long it should be taken for.
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LONGER PLANS AND PRICING REVIEW FOR NDIS
Written by Hillary Wilde Category: Latest News
14 January 2021
Since November 2019, people with disability accessing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can request plans for up to three years. This means that participants can opt to not have regular annual or biannual reviews of their NDIS plans.
For participants with support needs which are unlikely to change, a longer plan duration means they can carry on with their day to day lives without having to go through frequent plan reviews. Less red tape. Less paperwork.
This is in stark contrast to the twelve-month reviews which were in place since the Scheme’s introduction in 2013. Although in many cases this will improve access and ease of navigating and using the scheme, it is important to remember that when your circumstances or support needs change, that you can request a review of your plan at any time.
If this is you, be mindful not to let the NDIA “set and forget” your plan. Changes to your day to day needs and overall goals can happen quickly and often without warning.
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How Your NDIS plan is 'supposed to work'...
https://www.freedom2live.com.au/joint-standing-committee-calls-for-urgent-action-on-ndis/#.XiPWEcgzYdU
11 December 2019
Needing that Extra Help!!!
Gives some Answers to your "Frequently asked questions"
https://www.endeavour.com.au/ndis/resources
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"Getting Started as an NDIS Provider"
Since January 1, 2020 there is no longer a need for all incorporated providers to undertake a certification audit based on whether or not they are incorporated. Instead, audit requirements qre based solely on the level of risk associated with the supports provided to participants.
The change streamlines the registration process for many small businesses seeking to become NDIS providers, while not reducing the responsibilities of registered providers or the full range of compliance and enforcement actions the NDIS Commission can take to safeguard people with disability.
https://www.freedom2live.com.au/red-tape-slashed-for-some-ndis-providers/#.XfCGAOgzYdU
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Priorities for improving the NDIS
The Australian Government’s plan for the NDIS was released by the NDIS Minister, Stuart Robert, at his address to the National Press Club on 14 November.
The plan outlines six focus areas with specific activities allocated under each:
- faster access and quality decision making
- increased engagement and collaboration
- market innovation and improved technology
- a financially sustainable Scheme
- equitable and consistent decisions
- improvement of long term outcomes for people with disability, their families and carers.
- NDIS Government plan infographic with activities listed under focus area
- Minister’s National Press Club full address.
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https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/families-and-carers/how-we-can-help-carers
25 November 2019
In addition to the government-funded programs available to support carers, an NDIS participant might use funding in their plan to facilitate respite.
Respite supports participants and their carers by giving carers short breaks from their caring responsibilities. It also gives participants time away from their families.
For a participant, this might mean:
- joining a new community group
- having a short stay out of home to try new things, make new friends or develop new skills.
- temporary periods of extra personal supports so that the participant can remain at home when families and/or carers are not available
- support to participate in community activities, resulting in a break for carers.
For carers, taking some time off can help them better manage their own health and improve their wellbeing. In deciding whether to fund or provide a support, we will take into account what is reasonable to expect from families, carers, informal networks and the community.
More information for carers and how to include respite in an NDIS plan is available on the Carers Australia website .
We also encourage you to talk with your Local Area Coordinator or Planner on what supports might be available in your local community.
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FACT SHEETS:
https://www.ideas.org.au/facts.html
lists various disability types... to help clarify What Is Happening with those I love...
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Consultation is important to the Australian Government. Engage.dss.gov.au makes it easier for you to share your views and help shape policies.
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How to log into the myplace participant portal:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWg-Cw-DuVU
14 July 2019
This video is a step-by-step guide of how you can log into the myplace participant portal.
There are five simple steps to log into myplace and access your information.
Step one You'll need a myGov account to sign into myplace. If you already have a myGov account for other government services such as medicare or centrelink, you can use the same myGov account for the NDIS. You'll also need a one off activation code from the National Disability Insurance Agency to link your myGov account to myplace. After you have linked myGov to myplace, you will only use your myGov sign on to access myplace each time you log on. Go to my.gov.au for more information.
Step two You can access the myplace participant portal via the NDIS website or via the myGov website. If you're logging in via the NDIS website, go to www.ndis.gov.au. In the top right hand corner you'll see a drop down box labelled Portal sign in. Click on this drop down box and select myplace participant portal.
Step three This will then take you to the sign in page where you can input your myGov user name, email or mobile number and password and then select sign in. Depending on your myGov preferences you'll need to answer secret questions, enter a unique security code or a myGov pin. You then select the next button.
Step four The myplace participant portal displays once you have signed in. In the top right-hand corner you will see a box that says Acting as and then a box next to that which will state either myself if you are a participant or if you're a child representative or nominee, you can select the name of the participant who you are acting on behalf of. Once you've finished in the myplace participant portal, go to the top right-hand corner of the screen and select log out.
You can find more information and tools about accessing the myplace participant portal at www.ndis.gov.au/participants.
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Booklets and Fact Sheets:
https://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/publications/booklets-and-factsheets
Three participant booklets are available to support people with disability and participants throughout their NDIS journey. The booklets are a practical tool to help people with disability, participants, their families, carers and the wider community to learn more about the NDIS, prepare for a planning meeting and to implement their plan.
More NDIS information
The booklets are intended for use throughout a person’s NDIS journey and can be used to record key information, write questions and collect thoughts.
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/talking-disability/ndis-under-inquiry-microscope
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will be placed under the microscope during three new inquiries into planning, accommodation and wait times for NDIS access. The recently re-established Joint Standing Committee on the NDIS will commence two new Parliamentary inquiries into NDIS Planning and Supported Independent Living (SIL).
While the Morrison Government will review the Scheme’s legislation and aims to cut red tape and reduce waiting times for participants. Minister for the NDIS, Stuart Robert, says the review, which will be undertaken later this month, will look to streamline NDIS processes and inform the Participant Service Guarantee, which will set timeframes for participants to receive an access decision, set to be launched next year.
11 August 2019
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Navigating the Plan Review Process
Plan reviews will help you to measure your progress against your personal goals, explore new goals and identify any changes in your life.
Learn more on what will be discussed in plan review meetings and how participants and carers can prepare.
Watch now.
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How the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and health services will work together Supporting people with disability to participate fully in community life
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will support NDIS participants to engage fully in everyday life by placing participants at the centre of all decisions. NDIS participants may need regular and ongoing disability-related health supports as a regular part of their life to support them to undertake activities of daily living.
Health supports provided by the NDIS
The NDIS will fund specific disability-related health supports where the supports are a regular part of the participant’s daily life, and result from the participant’s disability.
https://www.dss.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/06_2019/attachment-drc-communique-fact-sheet-health-related-supports.pdf
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and health services will now work together to support people with disability through the funding of disability-related health supports.The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Disability Reform Council held its first formal meeting for the year in the Gold Coast to address a number of long-standing issues, including the interaction of the NDIS and the health system.
Hospital Discharge Delay Action Plan
Since 1 October 2019, NDIS participants are able to access health supports required as a result of their disability. Under the move, these disability-related supports include:
- respiratory,
- nutrition
- and continence supports
- and supports to manage epilepsy,
- pressure wounds,
- swallowing difficulties (dysphagia)
- and podiatry.
The disability-related health supports funded under the NDIS will include:
Dysphagia Supports
- Development of oral eating and drinking care plans (OEDCP)
- Swallowing therapy associated with dysphagia provided by an allied health professional
- Development of diabetic management plan
- Daily maintenance and care associated with diabetic management plan (where the participant is unable to self-manage due to their disability)
- Catheter changes
- Cleaning of catheters
- Consumables
- Assessments, plans and reviews
- Wound care consumables (e.g. dressings)
- Lymphoedema machines
- Lymphoedema garments
- Tracheostomy changes
- Tracheostomy clinical management
- Tracheostomy equipment and consumables
- Constant Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine and consumables
- Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machine and consumables
- Air humidifier
- Portable suction machine
- Cough assist machine
- Ventilator
- Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) and HEN equipment (or similar) and consumables, excluding Food Formula
- Thickeners and nutritional supplements
- PEG stoma changes
- Dietetic consultations
- Development of nutritional meal plans
- Development of meal time management plans
- Podiatry diagnosis and assessment and development of podiatry care plan
- Epilepsy seizure monitoring
- Epilepsy monitoring through assistive technology
The Council also agreed the Hospital Discharge Delay Action Plan will help promote the timely discharge of NDIS participants from public hospitals.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at The Summer Foundation, Luke Bo’sher says, “The decision to fund disability-related health supports under the NDIS will go a long way towards addressing major gaps that people with high and complex disabilities are experiencing when trying to access essential supports."
03 July 2019
Since 1 October 2019, additional disability-related health supports will be available to purchase using NDIS funding. The typical types of support available can be grouped into eight ‘support type’ categories.
The following list of fundable supports is not exhaustive, and supports may be delivered in a range of ways.
https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis/disability-related-health-supports
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News for people with disability
Goals are a big part of NDIS plans, and a really common one is to move out of the family home.
There are often a lot of steps involved in moving out of home when you have a disability.
In this blog we’ll take a look at how two participants – Milly and Bob - used their NDIS funding to smash their goals!
Remember, your goals are very personal and based on what is important to YOU. But looking at how other people achieved their goals can help you too.
https://www.endeavour.com.au/media-news/blog/how-the-ndis-can-help-you-move-out-of-home
30 July 2019
https://niis.qld.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/HOME-MODIFICATION-March-2019.pdf
HOME MODIFICATION REGISTER OF PROVIDERS OF HOME MODIFICATION LAST UPDATED MARCH 2019
Please note:
1. Under s9(2)(b) of the National Injury Insurance Scheme (Queensland) Act 2016 and s21 of the National Injury Insurance Scheme (Queensland) Regulations 2016, home modification must be provided by an entity registered in NIISQ Agency register of providers for the service.
2. Only those providers who have or are currently providing services to participants are listed on the register of providers. The inclusion of a service provider on the register of providers does not guarantee that a provider will remain on the register, nor does it guarantee that they will be engaged to deliver services to a NIISQ participant.
3. NIISQ Agency conducts periodic reviews of the register of providers including the criteria and procedures to be a registered provider of a service.
4. NIISQ Agency will communicate with the service sector, including Registered providers, of any changes to requirements to be a registered provider of a service.
5. Please contact NIISQ Agency via email [email protected] for further information on requirements to become a registered provider.
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Specialist Disability Accommodation news and price limit increases
The Minister for the NDIS, Stuart Robert, has announced three initiatives designed to stimulate further growth in the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) market to improve choices and outcomes for eligible participants.
1. SDA Design Standard
The SDA Design Standard provides guidelines for architects, investors, providers, builders and the community to support building new high-quality specialist housing for people with disability. From 1 July 2021, all SDA dwelling enrolment applications will require certification from an accredited SDA assessor.
2. SDA Innovation Plan
The SDA Innovation Plan outlines how the NDIA will work with participants and providers to develop innovative SDA designs. Contributions are welcome from participants, providers and others involved in SDA or you can register your interest in further updates.
3. SDA price limit increases
SDA price limits have increased in a number of areas to encourage investment in a diverse range of dwellings. Price changes are included in a new SDA Price Guide 2020-21 and SDA Price Calculator published 03 December 2020. The changes are in response to sector feedback and analysis conducted as part of the SDA Limited Cost Assumptions Review. For more information, visit the SDA Pricing and Payments page of the NDIS website.
The initiatives show the commitment to providing certainty in the SDA market for providers and investors and aims to encourage innovation in the disability-housing sector while supporting continued growth.
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https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/news/people-disability
Read the latest news for people with disability. You can subscribe to our newsletter to get regular updates.
How to log into the myplace participant portal
30 March 2019
NDIS price increases for a sustainable and vibrant disability services market
The Federal Government has today announced an increase to price limits for:
- therapy,
- attendant care and
- community participation
NDIS Price Guide 2020-21 - effective 1 March 2021
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/talking-disability/ndia-announces-changes-to-covid-supports
The NDIS Price Guide and Support Catalogue 2020‒21 reflects the Annual Price Review and indexed prices as a result of the Fair Work Commission Annual Wage Review 2019‒20.
- Price Guide 2020-21 (DOCX 331KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide 2020-21 (PDF 2MB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide Schedule of Addenda (DOCX 50KB)
- Price Guide Schedule of Addenda (PDF 296KB)
- Price Guide Addendum (DOCX 63KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide Addendum (PDF 502KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Support Catalogue 2020-21 (CSV 410KB) - effective from 1 March 2021
- Price Guide 2020‒21 for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
- Assistive Technology, Home Modifications and Consumables Code Guide.
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We encourage you to make a Service Agreement with your providers. It will clearly outline what services they will provide you, and how they will be paid for.
Visit the NDIS Making a Service Agreement page for more information.
09 December 2020 https://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/publications/booklets-and-factsheets
Participant booklets
Three participant booklets are available to support people with disability and participants throughout their NDIS journey. The booklets are a practical tool to help people with disability, participants, their families, carers and the wider community to learn more about the NDIS, prepare for a planning meeting and to implement their plan.
The booklets are intended for use throughout a person’s NDIS journey and can be used to record key information, write questions and collect thoughts.
Booklet 1 – Understanding the NDIS Booklet 1 covers:
- Learning about the NDIS
- Deciding whether to apply for the NDIS
- Accessing the NDIS
Booklet 1 – Understanding the NDIS (PDF 759KB)
Booklet 1 – Understanding the NDIS Easy Read (DOCX 51KB)
Booklet 1 – Understanding the NDIS Easy Read (PDF 6.4MB)
Booklet 2 – Planning Booklet 2 covers:
- Understanding your current supports
- Creating an NDIS plan to achieve your goals
- Receiving an approved NDIS plan
Booklet 2 – Planning (PDF 680KB)
Booklet 2 – Planning Easy Read (DOCX 62KB)
Booklet 2 – Planning Easy Read (PDF 7MB)
Booklet 3 – Using your NDIS Plan Booklet 3 covers:
- Understanding what’s in your plan
- Learning how to use your plan
- Choosing and managing supports and services
- Reviewing your plan and progress
Booklet 3 – Using your NDIS Plan (PDF 804KB)
Booklet 3 – Using your NDIS Plan Easy Read (DOCX 59KB)
Booklet 3 – Using your NDIS Plan Easy Read (PDF 6.5MB)
Fact Sheet: Support Budgets Easy Read (PDF 564KB)
Fact Sheet: How to make a service agreement Easy Read (PDF 484KB)
Versions of the booklets in languages other than English are available. To request a Braille copy of these booklets, please contact the NDIA on 1800 800 110.
Factsheets and checklists for participantsAbout the NDIS
- Factsheet: About the NDIS (PDF 90KB)
- Factsheet: About the NDIS (DOCX 30KB)
- Factsheet: Accessing the NDIS (PDF115KB)
- Factsheet: Accessing the NDIS (text only) (DOCX 215KB)
- Factsheet: Developing your NDIS plan (PDF 498KB)
- Factsheet: Developing your NDIS plan (text only) (DOCX 498KB)
- Checklist: Getting ready for your planning conversation (PDF 679KB)
- Checklist: Getting ready for your planning conversation (DOCX 204KB)
Question: "Does the NDIS replace your Disability Support Pension?”
Answer: No. There is no link between your Disability Support Pension (DSP) and your NDIS.
DSP is paid by Centrelink and your NDIS plan is paid by the agency called NDIA. Your NDIS plan is about the disability supports you need to live and your DSP is about your day-to-day living costs. They are designed to work alongside each other, not instead of.
The only change you will see from Centrelink will be in relation to the mobility allowance. You can read more about transport under the NDIS here.
4 July 2019
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Cashless Debit Card extension
22 December 2020
On 10 December 2020, legislation passed with changes to Income Management and Cashless Debit Card programs.
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Queensland Community Care recipients who are NDIS eligible will be required to transition to the NDIS as soon as possible.
Those who are not NDIS eligible will be assisted onto the new Queensland Community Support Scheme - https://www.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0022/60295/community-care-presentation.pdf
Queensland Community Support Scheme
The current Queensland Community Care program has been replaced by the Queensland Community Support Scheme (QCSS) since 1 July 2019. Find out more about QCSS.
The Queensland Community Support Scheme (QCSS) is a new scheme that provides supports to people who, with a small amount of assistance, can maintain or regain their independence, continue living safely in their homes, and actively participate in their communities.
You may be eligible for the QCSS if you are under 65 years old (or under 50 years old for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) with:
- a disability (and are not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme)
- chronic illness, mental health or other condition, or
- circumstances that impact your ability to live independently in the community.
What kind of support can QCSS provide?
The QCSS can provide you with support to access your community, including shopping, recreational activities, or visits to the doctor or another health professional.
It can also provide support for in your home to help you with things like:
- domestic activities like meal preparation, cleaning and household chores
- personal care, such as showering and dressing
- support to access your community, including shopping or going to the bank or the doctor
- basic home maintenance like mowing, cleaning windows or helping you with your garden.
How do I apply to access QCSS?
It’s easy. To apply, contact the QCSS Access Point on 1800 600 300 or email [email protected]. You don’t need a referral.
You can also complete an online client registration.
Whether you apply online or by phone the QCSS Access Point staff will then talk to you about how you are coping with daily living, assess your QCSS eligibility and determine the support you need to remain living independently in your home.
01 July 2019
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CHANGES TO TRANSPORT FUNDING with the NDIS
On Monday February 3 2020, Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Stuart Robert announced there would be more flexibility and increased choice for NDIS participants accessing transport funding in their plans. From 1 March 2020, NDIS participants will be able to have extended flexibility with their plan’s core support funding to claim service provider costs associated with the transport of participants to and from NDIS funded community-based activities.
Providers will be able to claim some of their vehicle running costs when offering transport to a participant in conjunction with the community activities identified in their NDIS plan. Assisting participants to access the community and to maintain or increase their independence has always been a key component of transport funding the Minister said. ‘This change will give participants more autonomy in their plans, and greater choice and control over the services and supports they need,’ Mr Robert said. A fairer and more consistent process to cover their transport costs with providers would be available to participants. The core objectives of choice and control for participants will continue as they make considered changes that ensure the sustainability of the scheme. In October 2019, an approach to improve the provision of transport supports under the NDIS was endorsed by the COAG Disability Reform Council. This included interim measures to increase transport funding for NDIS participants who are significant users of (the) taxi subsidy scheme, and a commitment by the Commonwealth to fully reimburse states and territories for their taxi subsidy schemes for NDIS participants from 1 January 2020 until 31 October 2021.
DOWNLOAD MEDIA RELEASE bit.ly/Transport_Media_Release
Information sourced from Media release from the Minister for the NDIS, Stuart Robert
The Mobility Parking Scheme (MPS) provides parking concessions to people with a mobility disability. If you’re eligible, Transport for NSW will issue you a licence-style card called an MPS permit, which will include your photo and other security features.
There are two types of permits available:
• Individual (blue card) – issued for 5 years if you have a permanent disability
• Temporary (red card) – issued for up to six months if you have a temporary disability
When you apply for an MPS permit in NSW, you will also be issued with an Australian Disability Parking permit (a large purple card) To get parking concessions both permits must be displayed. Concessions are available for pensioners for the cost of an MPS permit. For more information on Disability Parking Permits Visit: https://bit.ly/disability-parking-permits
Boost to flexibility in transport funding for NDIS participants
NDIS Accessibility Transport Posted 1 week ago by Rebecca St Clair
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/talking-disability/boost-to-flexibility-in-transport-funding-for-ndis-participants
From 1 March 2020, NDIS participants will be able to use their plan’s core support funding to claim service provider costs associated with transporting participants to and from NDIS funded community-based activities. Minister Robert says the transport funding in NDIS plans has always been about assisting participants in accessing the community and in maintaining or increasing their independence.
Providers can claim the transport funding as a separate item as part of the support they are delivering to participants. Minister Robert says, “This change will give participants more autonomy in their plans, and greater choice and control over the services and supports they need.”
Providers will be able to claim some of their vehicle running costs when offering transport to a participant in conjunction with the community activities identified in their NDIS plan. These costs are in addition to the support worker’s time and will be factored at a per-kilometre rate. Minister Robert says that these changes to transport funding now mean participants will have a consistent process to cover their transport costs with providers.
In October 2019, the Council of Australian Government’s (COAG) Disability Reform Council (DRC) endorsed an approach to improve the provision of transport supports under the NDIS. They endorsed interim measures to increase transportation funding for NDIS participants who are significant users of the taxi subsidy scheme, as well as a Commonwealth commitment to fully reimburse states and territories for their taxi subsidy schemes for NDIS participants from 1 January 2020 until 31 October 2021.
There are three new participant transport support levels, according to the NDIS website.
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NDIS Thin Markets Project
https://engage.dss.gov.au/ndis-thin-markets-project/
The Department of Social Services (DSS) and the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) have commissioned the NDIS Thin Markets Project to develop strategies to address supply gaps in ‘thin markets’ in the NDIS. The project will examine options for different cases. Noting that there is not necessarily a one-size-fits-all approach to addressing thin markets and related challenges, the ultimate focus of the project is on making sure NDIS participants affected by ‘thin markets’ challenges have access to the supports they require.
Thin markets are being described as inadequate service availability resulting in participants’ needs not being met.
The survey is available if you are a service provider, participant, or a peak body representing service providers or participants.
The survey should take 15 minutes to complete and has less than 15 questions.
If you have any questions or issues about this survey, please contact [email protected]
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Carers Payments and services if you provide care for someone with a severe disability, illness or a frail and aged adult.
Go to https://humanservices.gov.au/individuals/carers
View all carers subjects:
This site has been Extraordinarily thought out. Just click on whatever information/ services you are looking for and 'click'...
and SO much more... someone has Actually Thought about what we Carers Need to know; and how to do it quickly and precisely.
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CARER GATEWAY
Carer Gateway Counselling Service.
Caring for a loved one is important work. Some days caring brings great joy, but some days it can be lonely or a little overwhelming. No matter how you feel today, there is a counselling professional just a phone call away.
The Carer Gateway Counselling Service is a free service for carers. Each weekday, from 8am to 6pm, our professional counsellors are waiting to talk through the concerns you have and how you feel about your carer role. To learn more about how counselling helps carers, watch their video “Introducing the Carer Gateway Counselling Service” on https://counselling.carergateway.gov.au/s/
To use the Carer Gateway Counselling Service, simply select ‘Request a Callback’, fill in your details and they will call you back within one business day. You can also call 1800 422 737 and Select Option 1 to speak to our team.
If you are distressed and need immediate support, please select the ‘Urgent Help’ tab for details of 24 hour crisis services.
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Since 6 April 2020 the new service delivery model designed by carers, for carers, to help them get the support they need early, before reaching crisis point should be fully implemented and operational.
Wellways NDIS Service for Carers:
https://www.wellways.org/our-services/wellways-ndis-services-carers
If you care for someone receiving a package from the NDIS, Wellways can support you to look after Your health and wellbeing. Talk to us about how we can provide you with the best services https://www.wellways.org/our-services and supports for your needs. For more information, please call Wellways on 1300 111 500.
Wellways offers a wide range of individually tailored services designed to support people affected by mental health issues or disability, as well as their families, friends and carers. Our experienced, local staff will help you take charge of your wellbeing, connect with others and participate in your community.
The support we offer includes:
- assistance with day to day activities, such as household tasks, meal preparation, light housekeeping and grocery shopping
- transport to and from activities, appointments and meetings
- support to connect and participate in the community, getting out and about and catching up with friends
- transport
- travel training
- support to learn new skills, at home or in the community
- assistance with personal care such as showering, dressing and medication
- case management, support coordination and clinical support services.
Staying with your current carer services provider: Carers in Queensland and the New South Wales areas of South West Sydney and Nepean Blue Mountains can continue to access support through their current service providers until the new Carer Gateway Service Providers are established and operational in April 2020.
https://www.wellways.org/carers
https://issuu.com/wellwaysaustralia/docs/wellways_carer_services_handbook
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"The nervous system actually started out in the gut," says Emeran Mayer, director of the UCLA Center for Neuro-visceral Sciences and Women's Health as well as of the UCLA Center for Neurobiology of Stress. "Most of my patients have a very good understanding that there is a close connection between their emotions and their guts. But there are still very few neuroscientists who understand the complexity of this enteric nervous system and its links to the brain."
https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/articles/201111/your-backup-brain
Improving access for people with psychosocial disability
Providers are encouraged to share the Evidence of Psychosocial Disability form with support workers, prospective participants and their supporters. The NDIS applicant’s most appropriate clinician, and their support worker or appropriate person should complete the form.
The Evidence of Psychosocial Disability form is part of the Access Request process and the Evidence of Psychosocial Disability form would be submitted at the same time.
The NDIA developed the form in collaboration with the Department of Social Services funded Transition Support Project team at Flinders University.
Find more information about providing evidence for psychosocial disability on the NDIS website.
If you have feedback about the Evidence of Psychosocial Disability form, please contact the NDIA’s Mental Health Team at [email protected]
“In the mental health domain, use of specific words including negative or positive emotion and first-person singular words have been associated with depressive states and exposure to traumatic events,” according to the study. “Acoustic and other paralinguistic aspects of voice have been associated with depressive symptoms and response to treatment. They have also been used to classify manic and depressive states of individuals with bipolar disorder, affective states, and suicide risk.”
https://www.healthdatamanagement.com/news/ai-based-voice-analysis-app-monitors-mentally-ill-patients
22 January 2020
A new form that makes it easier to collect evidence to determine eligibility for the NDIS for people with psychosocial disability is now available on the NDIS website.
Factsheets:
- Glossary - key terms for understanding the NDIS and psychosocial disability (PDF 630KB) - this glossary explains key terms about psychosocial disability and the NDIS.
- Guide for Mental Health Professionals on Access (PDF 248KB) - this guide explains key NDIS principles and information, including the NDIS access requirements, to clinicians and service providers.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Psychosocial Disability Access (DOCX 194KB) - information for mental health professionals on how to help people access the NDIS and provide evidence.
- GP Guide to the NDIS - Psychosocial Disability (DOCX 7MB) - Information to help General Practitioners to understand how people with psychosocial disability may access the NDIS.
- Guide to writing a Support Worker Letter (DOCX 82KB) - provides an outline for support workers to follow when writing a support worker letter to assist with NDIS eligibility.
- Starting your plan with a Support Coordinator (PDF 158KB) - this factsheet explains how a Support Coordinator helps put a plan into action and how they help participants connect with the supports in their NDIS plan, maintain them and help to achieve their goals.
- Starting your plan with a Local Area Coordinator (PDF 160KB) - this factsheet explains how a participant can work with an LAC to put their NDIS plan in to action.
- Support Coordination: Information for providers by the NDIA (DOCX) - this fact sheet is for providers of support coordination and outlines the activities a support coordinator undertakes and the expected participant outcomes. It does not include information on support connection or specialist support coordination.
- Psychosocial disability, recovery and the NDIS factsheet by the NDIA (PDF 774KB) - the factsheet provides information about the concept of recovery within a psychosocial disability context and its application within the NDIS and individualised funding.
- Mainstream Interface - Mental Health (PDF 1.2MB) - the factsheet details supports the NDIS will fund in relation to mental health services.
Information about psychosocial supports and funding for the NDIS is available in the Mainstream Interfaces Mental Health Factsheet (PDF 1.2MB).
https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/how-ndis-works/mental-health-and-ndis
5 November 2019
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Tips to access the NDIS for mental health support
Easy to understand information is now available for people with a psychosocial disability, their supporters and service providers on how to access supports through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The Mental Health Access Snapshots below are designed to help you understand the access requirements under the NDIS in relation to psychosocial disability.
Please click on the following headings for each snapshot:
- General information about how the NDIS can support your mental health
- Impairment and mental health in the NDIS
- Recovery and the NDIS
- Functional capacity and mental health issues
- NDIS and other services supporting your mental health
The guiding principle of the NDIS is to be person-centred, giving people ‘choice and control’. It enables people with psychosocial disability associated with severe mental illness to exercise their right to make decisions about the types of services they need to improve care and support.
https://www.mentalhealthcommission.gov.au/media-centre/news/tips-to-access-the-ndis-for-mental-health-support.aspx
Suffering a mental illness is more common than you might think. A quarter of people suffer mental health problems at some point, but what’s important is how those problems are dealt with. If problems are left to get worse and develop into further mental and physical health problems, it’s obviously not helpful. That’s why it’s so important to get help when you know you need it.
With the right kind of support, your mental health problems can be managed in a way that ensures you can live the life you want to, as can the people around you. There’s no reason why you can’t live independently with the help of an experienced and compassionate home carer who can help you in whatever ways necessary. It’s a solution that works for lots of people around the world.
At Home Caring, to make sure that you’re always in control of the kind of care we offer. We’ll tailor our care service to your specific needs because we know that each individual case is unique and your care needs won’t be the same as somebody else’s. We’re going to talk more about the mental illness care services we provide so keep reading. https://www.homecaring.com.au/mental-illness-care/
Our Mental Illness Care Services:
Whether you’re the person dealing with a mental illness or you’re caring for someone who is, we know it can be difficult and stressful. That’s completely understandable and it’s never a sign of weakness to admit it. To ensure those problems don’t stop you from enjoying life and living as independently as possible, it makes sense to use the care services we offer to people in your situation here at Home Caring.
We have a team of people who know exactly how to help you and how to offer you the kind of practical and emotional support you need. A diagnosis of this kind can be shocking and upsetting for many, but you’ll find it much easier to cope with the situation if you have the right kind of support around you. That way, you won’t feel overwhelmed by everything that’s happening and everything that needs to be done.
We aim to give you the support that enables you to be yourself, gradually regain confidence and improve the general quality of life you have each day. There’s no reason why your diagnosis needs to prevent any of those things, either for you or for the people around you. We’ll provide the amount of care assistance you need in your home when it suits you and how it suits you. This is the best way to encourage your independence and future success in life.
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Wellways NDIS services for carers
The NDIS has been rolled out across the country in stages to ensure people with disabilities continue to get the support they need. If you care for someone receiving a package from the NDIS, Wellways can support you to look after your own health and wellbeing.
Talk to us about how we can provide you with the best services and supports for your needs.
For more information, please call Wellways on 1300 111 500.
People affected by mental illness have the right to create a good life: making a home, engaging in meaningful work or learning, and building good relationships with friends, family and people in their community.
The Wellways model of care is informed by our Community Recovery Model, which works at three levels:
• promote recovery and positive change for people with mental illness
• assist families and friends to build resilience
• create welcoming communities.
Psychosocial disability
If you have a mental illness that is affecting your ability to live a fulfilling life, you may be able to receive NDIS support.
It is important to note the NDIS does not fund therapy to address symptoms of mental illness but rather funds ongoing functional support for daily living. This support could include getting to a medical appointment, assistance in finding a suitable house, searching for a job, guidance in taking medication or help to prepare meals.
Mental health illness that affects your ability to perform daily activities is known as psychosocial disability. With the right support you can live a fulfilling life.
Some psychosocial disabilities include:
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
https://www.disabilitysupportguide.com.au/information/article/mental-health-and-the-ndis
UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH www.wellways.org/understanding-mental-health/information-and-resources
Here you will find information and resources on a range of common topics such as diagnosis and treatment, recovery and rehabilitation, community inclusion and belonging, and support for families, friends and carers.
This introductory information comes from a range of sources, including research and lived experience expertise. There are many different ways to learn about mental illness, mental health, disability, recovery and rehabilitation. It is important to find ways of learning that are right for you.
We recommend you contact our Helpline on 1300 111 500, attend a peer education program or community education program and learn from people who understand what you are going through.
Mental health and disability
- Schizophrenia
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Personality disorders
- Psychosis
- Alcohol and other drug use
- Eating disorders
- Suicide
- Causes and contributing factors
- Mental health and the law
- Disability
What helps
- Recovery
- Rehabilitation
- Peer support
- Work and study
- Finding and keeping a home
- Relationships
- Physical health
- Community inclusion
Support for family, friends and carers
Richmond Fellowship Queensland Palm Beach Hub
The Richmond Fellowship Queensland (RFQ) Palm Beach Hub provides structured social, educational and recreational activities and programs.
The Hub is for people 18 to 65 with a mental illness who are seeking connection and support with others.
They offer different groups including:
- Social café
- GROW – 12 step support group
- Carers group,
- Craft group,
- Walk n Talk group,
- Laughter yoga
LÜSCHER COLOR DIAGNOSTICS ®
The Lüscher-Color-Diagnostic measures a person's psycho-physical state, his or her ability to withstand stress, to perform, and to communicate. It uncovers the cause of psychological stress, which can lead to physical symptoms. Using 5015 precise definitions, the selections from among these pre-determined test colors measure the state of 34 personality traits, some of which lie outside the realm of the conscious. Because the color selections are guided in an unconscious manner, they reveal the person as he or she really is, and not as he or she perceives him - or herself, or as he, or she would like to be perceived, which occurs when questions are asked directly or by questionnaires.
The result of the LÜSCHER COLOR-DIAGNOSTIC contains indications pertaining to personal assessment and special, professional recommendations as to how psychological stress and the resulting physical symptoms can be avoided.
http://www.colourtest.ue-foundation.org/kolory/kolor-index2.php#a2
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NDIS Mental Health Access Snapshot Series
https://www.ideas.org.au/facts/ndis-mental-health-access-snapshot-series.html
A person wishing to apply for the NDIS needs to provide evidence that they meet the NDIS eligibility requirements. This document will specifically detail Section 24 of the NDIS Act, the disability requirements. The prospective participant may need support from other people such as a carer or support worker to gather the evidence for their access request. The below information is to assist anyone completing or supporting someone completing an access request.
The IDEAS eNews is a monthly shout out from IDEAS delivered directly to your email Inbox.
We collect and curate high-quality information and resources as well as the latest disability sector news, share videos, podcasts and recipes with a focus on information that is useful and engaging for people with disability, their families, carers and supporters as well as professionals in the disability sector.
You can check out our latest edition here.
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http://www.idhealtheducation.edu.au/
Intellectual disability mental health e-Learning
Free e-learning for carers, health professionals and disability professionals.
Our goal is to improve your knowledge, skills and confidence – leading to better mental health and wellbeing for people with an intellectual disability.
15 August 2019
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The new Carers Queensland Enquiry Line for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Local Area Coordination Partners in the Community program (LAC PITC) is open for business since 01 August 2019.
RING - 1300 999 636
The Enquiry Line provides a central point of contact for enquiries about the Carers Queensland NDIS Local Area Codination program.
Carers Queensland’s new enquiry line aims to:
- Provide resolution to enquiries in the shortest possible time and with the lowest possible contacts
- Continue to deliver a high quality customer service experience to community members and people accessing the NDIS
- Deliver consistent and high quality service through a dedicated team
- Be the central point of contact for the wider community, creating an easier enquiry and referral path.
The new Enquiry Line number 1300 999 636 will provide:
- participants,
- carers,
- community members,
- organisations and
- individuals
- the ability to contact the program on one number,
- while also meeting the needs of people who may want to find out about accessing the NDIS.
The Enquiry Line will support participants in:
- connecting with their Local Area Coordinator and resolving concerns,
- answer NDIS queries,
- provide information to people with disabilities and their families, and
- is one of the first points of contact for community enquiries.
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What is the NDIS?
https://www.ideas.org.au/images/What_is_the_NDIS.pdf
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a support for Australian with Disability, their families and supporters.
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is a commonwealth government organisation responsible for running the NDIS.
The NDIS will provide Australian citizens under 65 who have permanent and significant disability with funding for supports and services.
How the Planning Process works:-
- Understanding your current supports
- Preparing for your planning meeting
- Attending a planning meeting to create your plan
- Receiving your approved NDIS plan
- Using your plan
- Reviewing your plan
Understanding YOUR plan: https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/understanding-your-plan
The NDIS allows you to have as much choice and control as possible over the supports funded or provided in your NDIS plan.
YOUR NDIS Planning Work Book: https://www.everyaustraliancounts.com.au/wp-content/uploads/NDIS-Planning-Workbook.pdf
Queensland Government - Disability - Adults - getting help with the NDIS
https://www.qld.gov.au/disability/adults/getting-help/national-disability-insurance-scheme-ndis
Support coordination/NDIS:-
https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/who-can-help-start-your-plan/support-coordination#what-is-support-coordination
There are three levels of support coordination that can be included in your plan:
- Support connection – This support is to build your ability to connect with informal, community and funded supports enabling you to get the most out of your plan and achieve your goals.
- Support coordination – coordination of supports: This support will assist you to build the skills you need to understand, implement and use your plan. A support coordinator will work with you to ensure a mix of supports are used to increase your capacity to maintain relationships, manage service delivery tasks, live more independently and be included in your community.
- Specialist support coordination – This is a higher level of support coordination. It is for people whose situations are more complex and who need specialist support. A specialist Support Coordinator will assist you to manage challenges in your support environment and ensuring consistent delivery of service.
How can a Support Coordinator help me?
You can look up registered support coordination providers using the Provider Finder tool in myplace. The Provider Finder will let you search for support coordination providers that are located near you. Every three months the NDIA publishes a list of registered providers in your state on the NDIS website.
What's the difference between support coordination and specialist support coordination?
Where do I get a Support Coordinator from?
Is there a difference between self-managing and support coordination?
If I self-manage or plan manage my plan, will I still be able to receive funding for support coordination?
Can I change to a different provider if I'm not happy with the support I am receiving?
I am developing a service agreement with a support coordinator,what questions should I ask before signing anything?
How can I become a support coordination provider?
10 January 2019
A new Assistance Animals assessment template, which will improve the quality of requests from participants, assessors and providers.
These important changes were informed from a La Trobe University report called ‘Key terms for animals in disability assistance roles’, available on the NDIS website. Participants now have clear guidelines on evidence needed to support a request for an assistance animal. The new Operational Guideline and the supporting assessment template will improve the quality of requests from assessors and participants, and providers. 27 July 2020
Supports for carers through the NDIS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=9&v=M4GPt5RT1kE
How Your 5 Senses Can Help When Anxiety Strikes As a carer you may become annoyed when anxiety strikes.
“I don’t have time to have an anxiety attack right now”,
“Of COURSE this has to happen now, I’m meant to be doing something for my loved one” or
“I am so sick of these anxious moments, I wish they would just go away”.
When anxiety pays us a visit, it brings with it a sense of doom. Our hearts race, our minds get busy concocting all different awful scenarios, our breathing becomes shallow and we can sometimes feel light-headed. Suffering anxiety is not fun. If you suffer anxiety, you know this to be true.
Whatever the trigger may be, we suddenly find ourselves cocooned in a storm of feelings that nobody else can see. Whether you’re at work at your desk, or frozen at the kitchen sink, or standing at a set of lights – your stillness contradicts everything that is going on within your mind at that moment.
What To Do The fabulous world of the internet shows us that there are a multitude of ways to deal with anxiety. But for us, we wanted to share with you an activity that involves using your five senses and is often referred to as the ‘5-4-3-2-1 coping technique’.
This technique is designed specifically to be easy to implement and effective in drawing your attention to this moment. It helps to calm your breath, settle your thoughts and brings your mindfulness to the present.
Let Your 5 Senses Ground You
To get started, take in a big breath from your belly:
5. See – Look around you and find five things you can see.
4. Feel – Notice four things that you can feel eg your feet in your shoes, the itch in your arm, the clothes against your skin.
3. Hear – Take note of three things you can hear. Traffic outside, the wind in the trees or your neighbours’ dog.
2. Smell – Breathe in and list two things you can smell.
1. Taste – List one thing you can taste.
Some articles will recommend that you say all these things out loud in acknowledgment. This will obviously depend on where you are, and if you’re out in public it’s probably enough for you to acknowledge them silently, to yourself.
https://www.arafmi.com.au/how-your-five-senses-help-when-anxiety-strikes/
Research Reveals a Surprising Solution for Anxiety
Anxiety affects over 40 million adults and over 25% of children between 13 and 18 (Anxiety and Depression Association). Undermining our ability to function, anxiety can fill us with incessant worry, tension, nervousness, and a fearful sense of foreboding that makes us feel we are not safe.
The stresses of contemporary life contribute to our anxiety, according to neurosurgeon James R. Doty, M.D., director of Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE).
Deprived of sleep by electric lights and electronic communication, and assaulted by workplace demands and the frantic pace of modern living, he says, we can experience “chronic engagement of our sympathetic nervous system, depressing our immune system, increasing our blood pressure, causing the production of inflammatory proteins, decreasing our cortisol level, our epinephrine, norepinephrine, with a very deleterious effect on long-term health” (Doty, 2019).
Constant self-criticism also causes stress, according to psychologist Paul Gilbert. When you make a mistake, if you call yourself names like “stupid and “loser,” or tell yourself that you’re “not good enough,” and this harsh self-talk actually makes you feel that you are being attacked, triggering a stress reaction (Gilbert, 2009).
Emotionally, all this stress puts us in “survival mode,” destroying our peace of mind and impairing our ability to make wise decisions. Stress makes us more reactive, and more susceptible to people who try to manipulate us, both personally and politically (Doty, 2019)
A surprising solution to all this stress and anxiety is compassion, “an open-hearted way of relating to the world that responds to the suffering of others with care, kindness, and helpful action” (Neff & Seppala, 2016, p. 189).
Compassion also includes:
- self-compassion,
- being kind to ourselves,
- especially when we make mistakes,
- treating ourselves as we would treat a dear friend (Neff, 2011).
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Your Backup Brain
There's a "second brain" in your stomach. It influences:
- our mood,
- what you eat,
- the kinds of diseases you get,
- as well as the decisions you make.
And you thought it was all in your head!
https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/articles/201111/your-backup-brain
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NDIS in 30 seconds: Videos created by people with an intellectual disability for people with an intellectual disability. https://www.endeavour.com.au/ndis/resources/videos
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Looking to improve your mental wellness at work?
Explore the neuroscience and find tips on:-
- Sleep – How to create healthy sleep habits
- Stress – How to protect your brain against neuron damage
- Resilience – How to inoculate yourself against stress
- Back pain – How to reduce your pain
- The immune-brain conversation – How to avoid the office cold
and do scroll down a bit and look at the NEURAtalks SEMINAR SERIES
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Medicinewise News:
Psychological treatment for anxiety disorders
A range of psychological treatments are used to treat anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioural therapy is the psychological treatment supported by the most evidence, but there are many others. This article examines some of the treatment options and the evidence supporting them.
Consumers: Talk to a professional (Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm AET)
Medicines Line - getting information over the phone
Call 1300 MEDICINE (1300 633 424) from anywhere in Australia.Hours of operation: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm AEST (excluding NSW public holidays).
This telephone service is not for emergencies, medical advice or second opinions.
Medicines Line does not provide:
- emergency services. If you have concerns about an overdose or suspected poisoning, call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 any time. For general emergencies call 000
- medical advice or second opinions on the medicines recommended by your health professional.
Get medicines information: 1300 MEDICINE (1300 633 424) Calls triaged by healthdirect Australia.
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Helping people who care for a friend or family member with mental illness navigate the NDIS.
https://carercoach.com.au/
Carer Coach is a five module training series that Arafmi has developed to help mental health carers and the people they care for navigate the NDIS. Carer Coach is being delivered through face-to-face workshops, booklets and online.
There are five modules:
Module 1 - A brief introduction to the NDIS and mental illness
Module 2 - Making an NDIS application
Module 3 - Getting ready for the planning meeting
Module 4 - Supporting someone to make the most of their NDIS plan
Module 5 - Preparing for a plan review
For many mental health carers, the NDIS can feel like a complex new system full of unfamiliar language. Carer Coach breaks this new process down into manageable steps, presented in clear and accessible language. Carer Coach aims to make carers feel more at ease with the NDIS and to build their knowledge and skills.
Whether you need help navigating the NDIS, looking for support services for a loved one or simply need someone you can talk to who understands, we’re here for you. Contact us today to see how we can help you. Call 07 3254 1881 or visit www.arafmi.com.au
Questions? Look at our FAQ's https://carercoach.com.au/faqs/
29 March 2019
Carers Forum
Acceptance, Connection, Support. Share the journey.
Safe, anonymous discussion for people living with mental illness, moderated 24/7 by mental health professionals.
Read the community guidelines
NEED HELP NOW
National Helpline You can call Arafmi any time of the day on 1300 554 660 or 07 3254 1881.
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Counselling / Carer Support Groups
Carers can benefit from assistance through individual or group counselling, relationship or family counselling, and carer support groups. For information on your local support groups, or where you can access carer counselling, contact Carers Queensland on 1800 242 636.
Carer Forum
Carers Queensland also provides an online Carer Forum for carer and people with lived experience of mental illness to access peer-to-peer advice and support in an anonymous, safe, online environment.
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Q. Are you an NDIS participant looking for support workers OR are you an NDIS provider looking for new staff?
https://www.ndis.gov.au/coronavirus/finding-support-workers#matching
We know that NDIS participants and their families; and NDIS providers may be looking for workers to deliver much needed disability supports, and provide extra cover in these times. The NDIA encourages participants and providers to look to the matching platforms listed here so they can quickly and easily access the support workers they need: These businesses provide access to thousands of available and qualified support workers right across Australia.
These matching platforms have thousands of available and approved support workers across Australia.
30 April 2020
How to find Service Providers?
17 April 2020
Whether you’re new to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or wanting to change supports, finding a service provider can be a frustrating process. Simply, how do you find what’s out there? And what do you do once you’ve found them?
In this blog, we’re going to step you through the process. We’ll show you how to find potential providers, what questions you should ask them, and how to sign them up. It’s the complicated made simple! If you have any specific questions, comment below, drop us an email at [email protected] or call us on 1800 414 616. But in the meantime, let’s show you how to find your perfect provider.
Where do you find service providers?
The NDIS has turned the disability sector into one big ‘marketplace’, where you can look around and choose a provider that suits you. Cool, right? It’s all about giving you choice and control.
You can ask your support coordinators or local area coordinators (LACs) to help you navigate this ‘marketplace’, but what if you wanted feedback about a service before you agreed to use them? Or wanted a virtual marketplace to look at yourself?
This is where Clickability comes in. We’re an online service directory that lists the different providers you can use. This includes:
- support workers,
- physiotherapists,
- occupational therapists,
- speech pathologists,
- psychologists,
- gardeners,
- cleaners,
- and much more.
Imagine you’ve found a cleaner to de-clutter your home. Or a handyman who can fix that rotting ramp. Or a store that sells cheap consumables. But none of them is registered with the NDIS. Can you still use your NDIS funds to pay for their services? If you’re plan managed (or self-managed), the good news is you can! If it’s relevant to your Plan, the NDIS has ensured that you can access ‘mainstream’ services and use your funds to pay for them, ensuring choice and control remains yours. Cool, huh?
But if you’re using a service that has never interacted with the NDIS, you might be wondering what you need to do for them to get paid. This step-by-step guide reveals all.
Even better, people with disability and their carers can review service providers they’ve used before. This means when you search providers, you can read other people’s reviews of that service.
To find a service, head to www.clickability.com.au and type in the search on the homepage. If you want to narrow your search, you can select a category (e.g. ‘personal care’), the type of funding you wish to use to access a service (e.g. your NDIS funds) or enter your postcode!
What questions should you ask them?
Once you’ve found a service provider, you might want to ask them some further questions to ensure they’re a good match. If you’ve spoken to one of our team, we might already have answered some of these for you, but they’re good to keep in mind:
- For all categories,
- what’s the provider’s minimum shift length?
- What is their $ rate?
- Do they ask to see your Plan before taking you on as a client?
- For support worker agencies,
- does the provider allow you to give your preferences for support workers? (E.g. male/female or age.)
- For plan management providers,
- do they make you approve every invoice before paying?
- Or provide you with a dash to check your spending?
These are just a few of the questions you can ask, but they’ll give you a better gauge of whether a provider is the right fit for you. And remember: what might be right for me might not to be right for you. For instance, I like not having to approve every invoice that goes to my plan manager; I prefer checking via a dash. However, you might want to approve every invoice. Think about your preferences when talking to a provider.
Clickability is an Australian disability service directory that features ratings and reviews from people with disabilities. The comments and reviews published are not our own, and we are not liable for then. Please read our Terms & Conditions for more info.
Need help? Call us on 1800 414 616 or email [email protected]
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http://mhr4c.com.au/about-this-program/
This program is designed to support carers of people who have a mental illness living in Queensland.
Carers are usually family members and friends who provide support to children or adults who have a mental illness such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or other mental illnesses.
Carers commonly find mental illness and the mental health system confusing; want to hear how others are coping and often wonder if they are doing the right thing.
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The Carnivore Diet for Mental Health?
How plant-free diets affect the brain... A new presentation exploring the nutritional differences between plant and animal foods, and summarizing the scientific arguments in support of all-meat diets for optimal brain health. Skeptical? You should be. This seemingly strange and extreme way of eating flies in the face of every piece of conventional nutrition advice we've been given, yet a growing number of people report remarkable benefits, including resolution of serious, chronic psychiatric symptoms. If you are curious about how this diet might help to correct chemical imbalances in the brain, please watch this video to learn more. https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/diagnosis-diet/201904/the-carnivore-diet-mental-health
If you are inspired to try a carnivore diet for mental health purposes, and you currently take psychiatric medications (or medications of any kind), please read my article Ketogenic Diets and Psychiatric Medications first. Just as with a standard low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet, carnivore diets cause profound shifts in brain and body chemistry rather quickly. These changes are almost always positive and healthy, but they can have a major impact on medication levels, dosages, and side effects that require close medical supervision, particularly in the first month or two while your metabolism adjusts to your new healthy way of eating. It is very important to consult with your prescribing clinician before embarking on any low-carbohydrate diet.
Posted Apr 29, 2019
Georgia Ede, MD is a Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist specializing in nutrition-focused counseling and consulting services for individuals and fellow clinicians.
Do have a look here too...
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Gut Microbes May Play a Role in Mental Health Disorders
https://www.the-scientist.com/news-opinion/gut-microbes-may-play-a-role-in-mental-health-disorders-66039
The gut microbiome has been linked to depression, schizophrenia, and other neurological conditions, but it's not yet clear whether the relationship is causal.
05 July 2019 ASHLEY YEAGER
In the study, schizophrenia patients had been treated for an infection with the antibiotic minocycline, and their psychosis had cleared up. The study authors suggested that the patients’ improved mental state was thanks to minocycline tamping down inflammation in the brain. But Stevens had a different idea. He wondered whether the antibiotic was “somehow knocking down bad bacteria” in the gut that might influence the patients’ psychosis. If so, gut bacteria might not only play a role in schizophrenia, Stevens supposed, but also in other mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression.
“If you would have asked a neuroscientist 10 years ago whether they thought the gut microbiota could be linked to depression, many of them would have said you were crazy,” says Jeroen Raes, a systems biologist and microbiologist at KU Leuven in Belgium. Yet evidence from small studies of humans and decades of animal model research have begun to show a link between the gut microbiome and mental health, making Stevens’s idea seem less so far-fetched, and opening the floodgates for researchers to attempt to identify the specific microbes that may influence the brain.
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Treatment with honey is referred to as apitherapy and includes:
- replenishing energy,
- enhancing physical stamina and
- strengthening those weakened by illness or stress.
- Honey can also help calm the mind and
- promote rejuvenating sleep.
- In addition, honey relieves indigestion and is used to treat cardiovascular complaints.
- Finally, a thin coat of honey can be applied to the skin to disinfect and heal minor skin wounds and chapped lips.
Therapeutic Effect: Honey helps restore energy, has a general calming effect and helps to dissolve mucus. Applied externally to the skin, it disinfects and heals minor wounds.
http://parkinsonsresource.org/news/articles/honey/
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Managing your health can be challenging at times; while one facet of your wellness demands more attention than others, you may end up struggling to maintain a good balance in other areas. To be of sound body, mind, and spirit, it’s important to pay attention to all aspects of health—your mental, emotional, and spiritual sides all play a role in your physical welfare, and vice versa. A state of optimal well-being means more than just the absence of disease or disorder; it also means having the resources to cope with problems and circumstances beyond your control and recover from difficult or troubling situations.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/basics/health
17 December 2021
GOVERNMENT
Proposed changes to NDIS plans continue