The NDIS can be incredibly helpful when you know how to navigate it, but accessing it can seem impossible. Getting the support you need can become just another stressor in your life, and working through the bureaucracy is a massive headache when you’re already experiencing difficulties.
We’ve found that, for our clients, the start-to-finish process of getting on the NDIS is both difficult and complex. There are so many questions that arise when trying to start the process – what help am I eligible for? Who do I need to speak to? Where do I need to go? What documentation do I need? How do I fill it out?
If you resonate with any of these difficulties, we’re here to help. New Growth has extensive experience with the NDIS, and if you’re only just dipping your toes into accessing the system, we’ll make sure it’s as easy as possible for you.
We’ve put this information together to give you a digestible overview of what NDIS services are available, what common issues accompany trying to access them, and how we can help you overcome these issues.
The NDIS provides a wide range of services tailored to support people with disabilities in various aspects of their lives. These services aim to foster independence, community participation, and overall well-being. Key service categories include:
Assisting with daily activities, consumables, and support for social participation.
Focusing on improving skills and independence, including therapy support, employment assistance, and building relationships.
Investments such as assistive technologies, equipment, and home or vehicle modifications.
Helping participants understand and utilise their NDIS plan effectively.
Accessing these services begins with an eligibility assessment, plan development, and implementation. You must meet certain age, residency, and disability requirements. Once eligible, you work with NDIS planners or Local Area Coordinators to craft a plan that captures your goals and the support you need.
Many people encounter hurdles when accessing the NDIS – you’re not alone if you’re currently experiencing any of these issues.
You may find it difficult to reach their support coordinators, often due to high demand and stretched resources.
Extensive case loads for support coordinators can lead to delayed responses and unfulfilled requests – support coordinators are often stretched thin, and don’t have the time to deliver adequate support for all of their cases.
The intricacies of NDIS policies and paperwork can be daunting and confusing for many. Knowing who to speak to, what documents you need, and what next steps are can feel overwhelming – but we’ll be with you every step of the way.
New Growth was born out of a desire to make the NDIS work better. We’ve seen all these issues, and more, firsthand – we understand exactly how difficult it can be to access the system. Our approach to support coordination reflects this, and our team provides the utmost in care through:
We ensure our support coordinators are not overcommitted, allowing for attentive and timely support.
We are committed to clear, regular communication - so you’re always in the know about your NDIS journey.
Our team is adept at problem-solving. With any issues that might arise for you, we actively seek out solutions.
Accessing the NDIS isn’t so hard when you’ve got a dedicated team behind you who understand the system and take the time to understand you. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help.
NDIS-funded respite provides essential breaks for families and carers through Short Term Accommodation (STA), but eligibility depends on your plan, accommodation choices require careful consideration, and understanding the rules helps avoid funding issues.
NDIS participants can access various employment funding options including standard employment supports, Disability Employment Services, and specialist coordination, though finding effective providers and accommodating employers often requires careful research and advocacy.
The NDIS can fund vehicle modifications that are necessary for driving or travelling safely due to your disability, but won't pay for the vehicle itself. You'll need an occupational therapist assessment and must meet specific criteria around vehicle age and modification necessity.
The NDIS funds a wide range of assistive technology items including mobility aids, communication devices, home modifications, and daily living equipment, with approval based on individual assessments by allied health professionals rather than a standard list.
NDIS plans contain both flexible funding categories that allow cross-category spending and stated supports with specific restrictions, but unclear NDIA guidance creates confusion for participants and support coordinators about what's actually allowed.
NDIS consumables are everyday items that help manage your disability needs, from continence products to cooling bedding, but claiming them requires proper documentation and understanding of stricter approval criteria since late 2023.
The NDIS can fund home modifications to improve safety and independence, ranging from minor changes under $10,000 to complex structural alterations, with approval depending on proper assessment documentation and following specific NDIA processes.
NDIS transport funding can be optimised through choosing between direct payments or in-plan reimbursement, understanding provider travel charges, and advocating for appropriate funding levels based on your transport needs.
Evidence includes reports and assessments from health professionals outlining your disability, how it impacts your daily life, and your current and future support needs.
The time frame can vary based on individual circumstances. After submitting your application, it can take several weeks to several months for the NDIS to review and approve your plan.
If your situation changes significantly, you can request a plan review to ensure your supports remain appropriate for your needs.
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