What is the NDIS?
The NDIS is a nationwide disability scheme that aims to provide individualised support to help the thousands of Australians with a permanent disability or impairment. The NDIS was put in place after a productivity commission found the existing disability support network was “underfunded, unfair, fragmented and inefficient.”
The scheme is open to all Australian residents under the age of 65 with a permanent impairment or condition that substantially reduces the ability to perform tasks or actions without the help of someone else and/or an assistive device.
The NDIS covers a range of disability, including intellectual disability; neurological disabilities; physical disability; acquired brain injuries; visual impairment; psychosocial disability; hearing impairment; and sensory or speech limitations.
Funding is allocated to the individual, based on their particular requirements and in consultation with the participant, and their carers, if relevant. Once a plan is approved, the participant can get funding for things like:
- assistance with daily tasks at home, such as personal care, cleaning and household management;
- assistive technology to help you get around or with activities, such as wheelchairs;
- occupational therapy, speech therapy and physiotherapy;
- transport to appointments and social activities.
