What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme or “NDIS” is a new way to support people with disability, their families and carers.
The NDIS was introduced by the Australian Government in 2013 and provides funding for people with disability to access support that meets their needs. It also supports people with a permanent or significant disability or those aged 7 to 65 with complex needs—including children and young people with an intellectual disability.
The scheme aims to help these people live the life they want and achieve their goals by assisting them to participate fully in society. The NDIS will help you get the proper support at the right time to achieve your goals more quickly.
What assistance does NDIS provide to people with disability?
Personal Assistance: The NDIS Personal Assistance service allows you to receive help with everyday tasks and activities, such as preparing food, cleaning your home, and paying bills. You can choose how often you get help with these tasks: once per week, twice per week, or three times per week.
Community Access: Accessing community services can be essential for people with disabilities, especially if they live alone or have difficulty getting around outside their home environment. This might include things like transportation or access to programs like arts and crafts classes or even gardening groups within your local community centre.
Equipment: Equipment is anything you use to help you complete daily tasks like bathing or cooking. This can include things like wheelchairs, computers, and kitchen appliances.
What types of support can be funded through the NDIS?
The NDIS is designed to provide support in areas where people are most likely to have difficulty accessing services due to cost or availability.
The NDIS will fund support for people with a disability and other conditions that may impact their ability to live independently, such as mental health issues or intellectual and cognitive impairments. The NDIS will fund supports such as:
- Equipment for movement
- Modification of house and vehicles
- Perform daily routine works
- Carry out personal activities
- Assist in different household activities as required by the concerned individual or family.
- Behavioural support and health care
- Transportation assistance
- Dance classes
- Computer lessons
- Sport classes
- Yoga sessions
- Social clubs (for example, a local knitting club)
- Access to community facilities, such as a gym or swimming pool
How do I find out if I'm eligible for the NDIS?
The NDIS is a new support and funding program that provides people with disability with the help they need to live their lives, access the services they need, and reach their goals. To be eligible for this insurance scheme, you must:
- A resident of an area covered under NDIS
- Age should be between 7 and 65
- Have a permanent disability that prevents performing activities independently
- Seeking assistance from someone or equipment to complete tasks
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or a protected special category visa.
- In need of support from family members to gain skills to help you
