Understanding the NDIS - National Disability Insurance Scheme

What is the NDIS?

The NDIS was set up to support all children (& adults) with a disability, requiring support/intervention. It is separate to Medicare and schools (education) – this is important to understand as NDIS funding does not cover school issues or doctors appointments.

Why does my child need NDIS?

NDIS will potentially cover the costs of your child’s therapy (via rebates)

  • Psychology- individual/groups

  • Occupational therapy

  • Speech therapy

  • Dietitian support

  • Physiotherapy

  • Orthotics

  • Equipment if requested/verified by a therapist

  • Support worker/key worker

  • Therapy sessions& reports & assessments can be covered as well as team (case) meetings to plan treatment stretegies. Case management fees can also becovered- so you can get a therapist to help advise what is most appropriate for your child and review this frequently to ensure you get the best from your funds

  • Parenting support can be included as an essential part of a child’s psychological support plan

Types of NDIS plans:

  • Self–managed: where the parent uses portal to enter the costs of sessions and they are rebated within hours to their account. ( parent just keep records).

  • Plan-managed: where the parent decides to pay an independent agent/ company to organise the payments and help sort out therapy sessions but still free to use the therapists of your choice.

  • Agency-managed: this is where the NDIA organises all appointments/allocates sessions with the funds. So little choice in keeping therapists of your choice.

I recommend either of the top two - but if plan-managed, then ensure you use a reputable company that communicates well with both practitioners and clients - especially important if your budget is tight.

Useful information about plans:

Getting started with the NDIS:

Information coming soon…