Understanding The NDIS
What is the NDIS?
The NDIS is run by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), allowing participants to manage their plans themselves, have them managed by a planner, or by the NDIA. This choice gives participants control over their support services.
Regular reviews of plans help the NDIS meet participants' changing needs, providing long-term support. Whether you need to know how to apply for the NDIS, find a registered provider, or learn about available supports, CCA is always here to help you figure out what works best for you.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian government program that offers personalised support for individuals with permanent disabilities. It provides funding to help people reach their goals, live independently, and connect with their communities.
The NDIS includes help for daily tasks, assistive devices, and skill-building programs to help participants live better lives.
To qualify for the NDIS, individuals must meet criteria related to age, residency, and disability type, and each person receives a tailored plan to address their specific needs.
Your NDIS Plan
Your NDIS plan is a reflection of who you are and what you want to achieve. It's a roadmap of your goals, with the NDIS, CCA and other supports acting as your co-drivers.
The plan has two sections dedicated to your goals, designed to be easy to understand and use.
The "How will I achieve this goal" section is your personal map for success.
The "How will I be supported?" section is a guide to understanding who will work with you on your journey.
Your goals are paired with the funded supports that fit into 3 categories: Core, Capacity-building and Capital. Everyone's plan is different, so some people might have only one type of support while others may have all three in their plan.
For your individual funded supports, there's a total budget, making it simple to keep track and use it flexibly where you can.
If you have any further question, connect with CCA and we will be more than happy to help you on your NDIS journey.
For more information, visit the official NDIS website at www.ndis.gov.au.
What are Reasonable and Necessary Supports?
Reasonable and Necessary Supports
The NDIS funds reasonable and necessary supports to help individuals achieve their goals, increase independence, and participate in work, social activities, and community life. These supports are tailored to an individual's disability and unique needs.
Criteria for NDIS-Funded Supports
Supports must be directly related to the participant’s disability, offer value for money, and be effective in improving their quality of life. The NDIS also considers the participant’s informal supports, such as family or community, alongside formal services like health or education.
Examples of Funded Supports
The NDIS funds a wide range of supports, including personal care assistance, transportation for community involvement, workplace supports, therapeutic services (e.g., occupational or speech therapy), household help, assistive equipment, home modifications, and mobility aids.
What the NDIS Doesn’t Fund
The NDIS does not fund supports that are unrelated to a participant's disability, already covered by other government programs (e.g., school aides, hospital visits), or that fall under general living expenses, such as rent or groceries.
Participant Control and Choice
NDIS participants have the power to choose how their supports are provided, including the ability to select and manage service providers to best meet their needs and preferences.
Want to Learn More?
For more information about NDIS supports, visit the official website at ndis.gov.au or call 1800 800 110 for assistance.
You can also connect with CCA for an obligation free 30 minute chat.
Am I Eligible for the NDIS?
Learn more about NDIS eligibility requirements:
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You must be aged between 9 and 65. There are other avenues of support if you are under 9 years or over 65 years.
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You must be an:
Australian citizen,
Permanent resident, or
Protected Special Category Visa holder.
You must live in Australia.
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You must have a disability caused by a permanent impairment
The NDIS is only available to people who have a disability caused by a permanent impairment .
The impairment may be intellectual, cognitive, neurological, sensory, physical, or psychosocial.
If you usually need disability-specific supports to complete daily life activities you may be eligible.
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You may be eligible if you need some supports now to reduce your future need for support.
You may be eligible if you need some supports now for your family to build their skills to help you.
CCA is Here to Support You
We provide the supports to ensure that people living with all types and levels of disability and needs can be as independent as they wish to be.
We support each person to plan their services through a ‘Build Your Own Service’ approach so that your services are customised to your individual needs and wants and not on a 'one size fits all' basis.
For almost 40 years, CCA has been dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities. Our experienced staff focuses on empowering each person to live independently in the comfort of their own homes.
At CCA, we prioritise your needs and preferences, offering specialised services and access to life-enhancing technologies for a more convenient lifestyle.
CCA will always charge in line with current NDIS Price guide for NDIS services.
We listen to every body who is looking for support. Our mission is to build choices and options for people living with disabilities.
Common NDIS Questions
What is the NDIS and how does it work?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a program funded by the Australian government that provides support to people with permanent and significant disabilities.
It works by developing individualised plans for people living with disability to help them achieve their personal goals, access necessary supports, and improve their quality of life.
Who is eligible for the NDIS?
To be eligible for the NDIS, you must be under 65 years of age, an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and have a permanent and significant disability that affects your ability to participate in everyday activities.
How do I apply for the NDIS?
You can apply for the NDIS by contacting the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) either online, by phone, or through a Local Area Coordinator.
The application process involves completing an access request form, providing evidence of your disability, and undergoing a planning meeting if approved.
What supports are available through the NDIS?
The NDIS provides a wide range of supports and services, including assistance with daily personal activities, transport, therapeutic supports (such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy), assistive technology, home modifications, and more, depending on your individual needs.
Speak to CCA to see how we can help you connect with the supports that will support your life goals.
How often is an NDIS plan reviewed?
An NDIS plan is typically reviewed every 12 months. However, if your circumstances change, you can request a plan review at any time to ensure your plan continues to meet your needs.
Can I choose my own service providers under the NDIS?
Yes, the NDIS gives participants choice and control over their supports and services. You can choose your own service providers based on what best suits your needs, goals, and preferences.
The process includes gaining and improving necessary skills for handling daily tasks and well-being, highlighting the need for continual growth and adjustment to navigate life effectively.
What is NDIS Plan Management?
NDIS plan management is an option that allows people to manage their funding and payments with the help of a third party (a plan manager).
A plan manager handles the financial aspects of your NDIS plan, including paying invoices and helping you manage your budget.
How would my NDIS Plan created?
Your NDIS plan is created after an initial planning meeting with an NDIA planner or Local Area Coordinator.
During this meeting, you will discuss your goals, needs, and the supports that will help you achieve them.
Based on this, an individualised plan will be developed and approved.
What is I disagree with my NDIS Plan?
If you disagree with your NDIS plan, you can request a review of the decision within 28 days of receiving your plan.
This is known as an internal review, and if you are still dissatisfied, you can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
Can I get funding for assistive technology through the NDIS?
Yes, the NDIS provides funding for assistive technology such as mobility aids, communication devices, and other equipment that can help you live more independently and safely.
Your funding for assistive technology will depend on your specific needs as outlined in your NDIS plan.
CCA can help you to better understand how assisted technology can help you with your life goals.
What is the difference between NDIS self-management and agency management?
Self-management allows you to directly manage your NDIS funding, choose your providers, and pay invoices yourself.
Agency management, on the other hand, means that the NDIA manages the funds and pays providers on your behalf.
What happens if I turn 65 while on the NDIS?
If you turn 65 while on the NDIS, you can choose to continue receiving supports through the NDIS or transition to aged care services.
The choice will depend on your personal preferences and care needs.
How can you help me if I am confused about NDIS terms and jargon?
Visit our NDIS Terms Explained page, with over 150 NDIS terms and jargon to help you understand the NDIS better.
Do you still have questions about the NDIS?
The NDIS can be confusing and overwhelming so CCA is offering a FREE 30 minute phone call with one of our NDIS Support Coordinators to help you answer your NDIS questions you might have to learn about how the NDIS works.
Fill out the form and a CCA staff member will get in contact with you to arrange a time.
Find over 150 in our