If you meet the below criteria. If your disability is likely to be with you for life and substantially impacts how you manage everyday activities. If you are under 65 years of age. If you live in Australia and are an Australian citizen, or you have paperwork that gives you permission to live here permanently.
Once you are eligible to participate in the NDIS, you can start the planning and assessment process. This plan focuses on you as the participant. It is the start of a life-long relationship between you and the NDIS and It uses goal-based planning to maximise your independence.
Before starting this process, it is important to consider what your support needs and goals are. Talking to any current providers will help to ensure your supports are meeting your needs. It is also a good opportunity to consider whether new supports are needed to help you plan for the future. Your first plan will be in place for 12 months and may include similar supports and services you currently receive. Once the plan is in place you will be able to think about how those supports are working for you and if there are other supports which may help you achieve your goals. Any changes can be discussed with the NDIA representative during the annual review process.
There are many ways you can access your supports in your approved plan. Some options are listed below: Local Area Coordinators (LAC) The NDIS will establish LAC which you can contact to assist you to find community activities and the mainstream services that help you achieve your goals. Self-Direction This means you have control over your supports and how they are provided. You can choose the providers you want to deliver the services you need. You will usually need to have a written agreement with your providers. Participant Portal You can access your plan on the Participant Portal, an online tool available through the MyGov website that keeps all your documents together. The portal can also facilitate payments to providers. You will be given access to your specific details on the Participant Portal when your plan is approved.
You have choice and control over how you use the funded supports in your plan. This includes choice of how the supports are provided and which service providers you use. There are five ways a plan can be managed: 1. Agency Managed Providers of your supports claim funding directly from the NDIA 2. Plan Managed Funding in your plan is allocated to a third party so they can manage the financial transactions in your plan. Community Living Australia is a registered Plan Manager. 3. Self Managed You (or your nominee) directly manage the funds - all transactions are completed by the participant for services rendered. 4. Automated Payments These funds can be deposited into an NDIS bank account weekly, fortnightly or monthly. 5. Combination A combination of the above four options can be used together to meet your individual needs.
