Access free government support for disability, aged care and carers
There is an extensive range of disability and aged care support programs providing financial assistance in Australia. These programs are designed to promote independence, inclusion and an improved quality of life – not just for the person receiving care, but also their carers.
However, with so many grants and funding programs available, it can be difficult to know exactly what you may be eligible for and how to access them. Research is essential, and you can find much more information about all these programs on the relevant government websites. And you can also speak with providers within the healthcare, disability and aged care sectors who may be able to connect you with more specific funding and support information.
For people with a disability at any age
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is possibly the most well-known government initiative for disability support in Australia. Its purpose is to provide financial support for people with a disability through individualised support plans that provide funding for mobility equipment, services and increased access to community participation.
Eligibility for the NDIS is based on an assessment of the individual as having a disability caused by a permanent impairment. The NDIS looks at what support the individual might need to complete daily activities with increased independence, as well as what support they might need to mitigate a future need to support.
For older Australians needing support
My Aged Care is the Australian government's gateway service to accessing funding for older Australians who need additional support to maintain their independence.
While it's often associated with funding for aged care residential accommodation, My Aged Care offers support for a range of aged care services, including in-home care, domestic services and mobility equipment.
It’s also not necessary to have a long-term need for additional support. One of these programs is short term restorative care, which provides 8 weeks of funding to help an older person reverse or slow the difficulties they might be having with daily tasks. Based on a doctor’s assessment, this program can provide funding for mobility aids and equipment, physiotherapy and occupational therapy, cooking and meal preparation assistance, counselling sessions and so much more.
For carers
Carers play an important role in supporting people with a disability or mobility issues. Carer Gateway is the Australian government's support service for unpaid carers looking after a loved one. It’s a free program designed to help the 2.65 million unpaid carers in Australia with things like counselling and support groups, respite care and tailored services like cooking and cleaning to reduce some of the carer’s responsibilities so they can provide better care to their loved one.
These government support programs have been developed to enhance the wellbeing of people with a disability or declining mobility and their carers. Look into the programs that are most relevant to your situation, research further and seek out professional advice to help you navigate through the assessment process. Even if you’re not sure if you’re eligible, it’s important to look into accessing this support. Because everyone deserves to live fulfilling, independent lives.
