NDIS

Who can access the NDIS?

A person with a disability or anyone who requires early intervention from birth to 65 years of age who is an Australian citizen, resident or holder of certain classes of visa, and living in Australia. Currently you must reside in one of the launch sites to access the NDIS - with the Hunter Region being the area we are now providing services in.

The NDIS commenced in the Hunter area on 1 July 2013. People with disability living in the 3 local government areas (LGAs) of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland can access the scheme gradually to enable a smooth transition from existing supports. People in the Hunter launch will transition between 2013 and 2016. The full scheme will rollout across NSW between 2016 and 2018.

What is the NDIS?

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a new scheme designed to help improve disability services and provide greater control and decision making to Australians with disabilities.

Those people with disabilities and their families will be active participants in deciding what support, equipment and therapy services they require for all aspects of care. An eligible participant will meet with a support planner who will work together to identify what current and future supports you believe are most important (your goals).

An eligible participant is then funded to purchase services, aids and equipment from a variety of service providers that they choose with the assistance and guidance of the planner.

As a person's circumstances or condition changes, they will be able to apply to have their funded plan adjusted to meet current and ongoing needs.

How do I access NDIS funding if myself, my child or a person I support is eligible?

Firstly you and your child or the person you support; meet with a 'planner' from the National Disability Insurance Agency to confirm eligibility. From there the planner will discuss your goals, hopes and aspirations for the future which goes on to form a 'plan' outlining the supports that will be required.

Coastwide Therapy Services can work with you throughout your planning process and once you get your package.
What happens with my current supports?

No changes occur until after you have met with your planner from the NDIA and have received your plan and budget for support/ services/ equipment etc.

Please note for those children already receiving funding through FaHCSIA under the "Helping Children with Autism" and "Better Start" packages- once your NDIS plan has been approved, funding you may be receiving through those programs will cease and your child's supports will be funded through your NDIS package.