The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a scheme under the Australian Government that aims to empower individuals with disabilities or developmental concerns by providing funding for services that enhance community access and independence, such as occupational therapy. The NDIS can seem daunting, especially for families with young children. Understanding the process can greatly ease the journey! Here's a simplified guide tailored to families with children that need support through services such as occupational therapy:
Support for Children Under 7 Years Old: Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI)
Children under 7 years old with developmental concerns can access support through the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) program. Importantly, a formal diagnosis is not necessary for eligibility. If your child presents with developmental delays or concerns, they are likely eligible for NDIS funding to support their skill development.
The first step is to connect with the early childhood partner in your area. For example, if you live in the Eastern Suburbs, your partner would be Lifestart or Northcott. The ECEI team will assess your child's needs and assist in connecting you with appropriate service providers. They'll also provide ongoing support to track your child's progress and outcomes.
You can find your ECEI Partner here: https://www.ndis.gov.au/contact/locations?_ga=2.247670599.1381585247.1707265618-1150340496.1707265618
Support for Children Older Than 7 Years Old and Adults Up to 65 Years Old
Individuals aged 7 to 65 can qualify for NDIS funding based on specific criteria:
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Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or a protected special category visa.
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Meeting the disability requirement, which involves having one or more diagnoses listed by the NDIS.
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Interventions aimed at reducing the need for future support or enhancing the individual's skills.
Conditions that are likely to meet the disability requirements: https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/home/becoming-participant/applying-ndis/list-conditions-are-likely-meet-disability-requirements?_ga=2.151070969.1381585247.1707265618-1150340496.1707265618
If eligible, there are two ways to begin the NDIS application process:
1. Submit a verbal access request or complete the Access Request Form and send it to the NDIS. Or,
2. Contact your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to assist with creating a plan and applying for the NDIS.
You can also seek support from a plan manager who can guide you through the process and provide ongoing assistance with financial and plan management.
You can find your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) here: https://www.ndis.gov.au/contact/locations?_ga=2.247670599.1381585247.1707265618-1150340496.1707265618
Understanding Your Funding
NDIS funding is allocated across three categories:
1. Core Supports: daily living activities, community participation, and transport.
2. Capacity Building: Aims to build independence skills through personal care, job support, therapy, and other services.
3. Capital: Invests in assistive technologies and specialist disability accommodation.
Your budget and plan duration will be determined after assessment, with plans lasting between 12 to 36 months and potentially rolling over with your agreement.
For more information, visit the NDIS website or reach out to your ECEI or LAC for personalised assistance with your concerns in the links above.
If you think your child may be eligible for funding under the NDIS, and you are either seeking occupational therapy support or are currently accessing OT services, please get in touch with Kids First on the below details, and we can assist you with any queries or support needs.