NDIS is changing to ensure that supports provided benefit the lives of each participant.
Skillz4me services will not be affected by these changes. Every support provided by our organisation helps individuals reach their goals, with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for each individual.
Our main supports fall under:
- Group and centre-based activities
- Participation in Community, Social and Civic activities
- Therapeutic Supports
A key change is the new definition of NDIS supports. This definition makes it clear what NDIS funding can and cannot cover. It applies to all participants. Here is what you need to know:
- From now on, participants can only use their NDIS funds for items listed as approved NDIS supports
- There will also be a list of items that NDIS funding cannot cover
- There is a replacement rule that allows a participant to substitute a support that is not an NDIS support in specific cases
Other changes effective from 3 October include:
- New and reviewed plans will show total budget amounts, funding component amounts, and funding periods
- The NDIA can change your plan management type if you need help managing your funds
What does the NDIS fund?
NDIS typically fund a requested support if it meets ALL the following criteria:
- it is for your impairments that meet the disability or early intervention requirements, or both
- it will help with your individual goals and aspirations
- it will help your social and/or economic participation
- it is value for money, which means that:
- the cost of the support is similar to or cheaper than alternative options that can provide you with the same outcome (NDIS Supports for Participants Rule 3.1(a)); and/or
- purchasing the support is likely to reduce the costs of funding for other supports in the long term (NDIS Supports for Participants Rule 3.1(c)).
- it is effective and beneficial for you
- it helps to maintain your informal supports
- it is an NDIS support
What does the NDIS not fund?
- Day to day living costs – groceries and petrol
- Accommodation costs – rent and insurances
- Non-evidence-based therapies – Animal therapy, gaming therapy.
- Health services
- Mental Health services
- School education
- Employment
- Transport
Further information can be found on the NDIS website
If you would like to discuss further specifically your circumstances and how these changes may affect you. Please contact Rachel Savage.