Understanding NDIS Support Services: Key Benefits and Eligibility Criteria

September 23, 2024

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a lifeline designed to breakdown barriers faced by millions of Australians who are living with a disability

If you or a loved one is living with a disability, understanding the key benefits and eligibility criteria of NDIS support services can be crucial in accessing the assistance you need. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about NDIS – exploring how it works, who qualifies, and the various types of support available.

What is the NDIS?

Launched in 2013, the NDIS is a national scheme designed to provide individualised support for people with a lived disability, as well as their families, and carers. It was introduced to empower individuals by giving them greater choice and control over the support they receive. 

The scheme is based on the principle that everyone should have the opportunity to live an ordinary life and participate fully in their community.

The core concept is simple: the NDIS assesses your individual needs and goals and then allocates a budget for the supports and services that will help you achieve them. This could include anything from assistance with daily living tasks to specialist therapies, assistive technology, and even home modifications.

NDIS also operates on a participant-centred approach. This means you are in control. You get to choose your service providers, manage your funding, and have a say in how your support is delivered.

Key Benefits of NDIS Support Services

There are a multitude of advantages to accessing NDIS support. Here are some of the key advantages:

Personalised Support Plans

One of the key benefits of NDIS is the development of personalised support plans. These plans are tailored to each individual’s unique needs, goals, and aspirations. Through a collaborative process, participants work with their NDIS representative to identify the support they require to achieve their objectives. 

This person-centred approach ensures that the assistance provided is relevant, effective, and aligns with the participant’s preferences.

Improved Independence and Social Participation

NDIS support services aim to encourage the independence and social participation of individuals with a disability. By providing access to necessary aids, equipment, and support services it also enables participants to engage more fully in their communities. 

This might include assistance with daily living activities, transportation, social interactions, and employment opportunities. Through customised support plans, the NDIS helps individuals lead more fulfilling and self-determined lives.

Greater Choice and Control

Under NDIS, participants, parents and guardians have greater choice and control over the support they receive. They can choose their service providers, decide how and when support is delivered, and have a say in how their funding is allocated. 

This empowers individuals to make decisions that best suit their needs and preferences rather than being limited by a one-size-fits-all approach.

Access to Specialised Supports

NDIS provides access to a wide range of specialised supports that may not have been previously available or affordable. These include therapies, housing assistance, assistive technologies, home modifications, and behaviour support. 

By accessing these specialised services, participants can work towards their goals, develop new skills, and overcome challenges associated with their disability.

Interaction Services has an extensive network of Behaviour and Allied Health experts, including NDIS psychologists in Windsor, Macarthur, and Wollong, so that participants can access the support they need in their local area.

Flexibility in Support Arrangements

NDIS offers flexibility in how support services are arranged and delivered. Participants can choose to self-manage their funding, giving them greater control over which providers they engage and how they allocate their resources.

Alternatively, they can choose between a plan-managed or an agency-managed approach, where a third party assists with the administrative aspects of managing their support. This flexibility allows participants to find an arrangement that works best for their individual circumstances.

Capacity Building and Skill Development

NDIS places a strong emphasis on capacity building and skill development. The scheme recognises that with the right support and opportunities, individuals with a lived disability can grow, learn, and develop new skills. 

Funding can be used for training, education, and skill-building activities that enhance a participant’s independence and social participation. By investing in capacity building, NDIS helps individuals reach their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives.

Support for Families and Carers

NDIS recognises the vital role that families and carers play – that is why we also provide support for families and carers of individuals with a disability. The scheme offers respite services, counselling, and training to help families and carers manage their responsibilities and maintain their own well-being. By supporting the support network, NDIS promotes a holistic approach to disability care.

Eligibility Criteria for NDIS – Who Can Access NDIS Support?

To avail the NDIS you need to meet access requirements. Here are the main criteria:

Age Requirements

NDIS is available to individuals who are under 65 years of age when they first enter the scheme. For those who are 65 or older, support may be provided through the aged care system.

Residency Requirements

To be eligible for NDIS, individuals must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa. They must also live in Australia, where NDIS is available.

Disability Requirements

To qualify for NDIS, individuals must have a permanent and significant disability that impacts their ability to take part in everyday activities. This includes intellectual, cognitive, neurological, sensory, physical, and psychosocial disabilities.

Early Intervention Requirements

In some cases, individuals may be eligible for NDIS support services under the early intervention requirements. This applies to children under 7 years of age who have a developmental delay or disability and would benefit from early support to reduce future needs.

Not sure if you qualify? The NDIS provides an eligibility checklist to help you understand eligibility and manage the access process. You can also contact Interaction Services and talk to one of our expert team members who will guide you through the process.

Accessing NDIS Support Services

If you believe you or a loved one may be eligible for NDIS support services, the first step is to contact the NDIS directly or reach out to a local NDIS provider. An NDIS representative will guide you through the application process, which typically involves the following steps:

1. Eligibility Assessment: The NDIS will assess your eligibility based on the criteria mentioned above. This may involve providing evidence of your disability, such as medical reports or assessments from health professionals.

2. Planning Meeting: If you are deemed eligible, you will be invited to attend a planning meeting with an NDIS representative. During this meeting, you will discuss your goals, aspirations, and support needs. Together, you will develop a personalised NDIS plan that outlines the support you will receive.

3. Plan Implementation: Once your NDIS plan is approved, you can begin accessing the support services outlined in your plan. You will have the flexibility to choose your service providers and decide how your funding is allocated.

4. Plan Review: Your NDIS plan will be reviewed regularly (usually every 12 months) to ensure that it continues to meet your needs and goals. If your circumstances change, you can request a review of your plan at any time.

RELATED: How to Choose The Right NDIS Provider

Looking for NDIS Providers in Sydney?

Navigating the NDIS system and understanding the various support services available can be overwhelming. That’s where Interaction Services comes in. As a registered NDIS provider, Interaction Service is dedicated to helping people with a disability access the support they need to live their best lives.

At Interaction, we’re passionate about empowering people with a disability to live their best lives. Our experienced team can provide:

• NDIS Support: We can guide you through the NDIS process, from initial assessment to plan implementation.
• Individual Support: Our support workers can assist with daily living activities, community participation, and skill development.
• Specialised Support: We offer specialised support for individuals with complex needs, including those with intellectual disability, autism, and mental health conditions.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you on your NDIS journey.