The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has been rolled out nationally, with the Sunshine Coast being one of the most recent regions in the country to receive the new funding model for disability support.
The NDIS provides all Australians under the age of 65 who have a permanent and significant disability with the reasonable and necessary support they need to live an enriched life.
STEPS Social & Community have over 30 years of experience in the disability sector. From advice and planning to service provision, STEPS helps guide participants every step of the way to ensure they get the most out of their NDIS package.
There’s a lot of new NDIS information to navigate; here, STEPS have shared their top tips for NDIS planning:
CHECK – are you eligible
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) makes decisions about eligibility. Contact the National Access Team on 1800 800 110 or visit the NDIS website to check eligibility criteria.
APPLY – to participate
To become a participant, contact the NDIA ON 1800 800 110 to make a Service Access Request. If you already receive disability support services, the NDIA will contact you when it becomes available in your area. If you have yet to have any contact with the NDIA, call the office to ensure all your details are correct on their database.
CREATE – your plan, achieve your goals
To get ready for the planning meeting, think about your immediate support needs and current and future goals. Your planner will ask questions about what support or therapy you are receiving and your goals. It is beneficial to be prepared for your planning meeting.
USE – connect to services
Once your plan has been approved, it will be time to connect with services. There are several ways in which you can do this. You may receive funding for support coordination; alternatively, your Local Area Coordinator may help implement your plan.
REVIEW your plan – change it up if you need
The plan review is an opportunity to assess if your supports are working for you and if they are helping you work towards achieving your goals. The first NDIS plan review usually falls 12 months after your plan started. If your circumstances change during the year, you do have an opportunity to contact the NDIA.
STEPS Social & Community are passionate about helping to create brighter futures. They provide NDIS services to the Sunshine Coast, Gympie and Bundaberg regions. For more information, speak with our team today at 1300 766 962.
