It can be incredibly overwhelming to apply for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for the first time. The truth is that knowing a lot about the scheme is what will help you live a more independent life, reach your goals and get the right help for your needs. Advance Care Agency is in existence to ensure that the NDIS works for you. Here is a complete and straightforward explanation of how the NDIS works.
What Is the NDIS?
NDIS, also called the National Disability Insurance Scheme, is Australia’s national supportorganisation for individuals with permanent and severe disabilities. It helps people get support in their daily activities. This way, they can reach their goals and be independent.
Who Is Eligible for NDIS Support?
To access the NDIS, you must:
1. You must be younger than 65 when you apply.
2. You must be an Australian citizen or have a permanent or Protected Special Category visa.
3. Have a long-term and severe disability that makes daily tasks difficult for you.
4. Meet the requirements for disability or the criteria for early intervention.
Key Stages of the NDIS Journey
1. Access Request
You or your representative applies (access request) to the NDIS. If your condition is on the list of likely eligible conditions, approval may be quicker.
2. Planning Meeting
Once you are eligible, you’ll have a meeting with an NDIS planner or a Local Area Coordinator (LAC). This is where you talk about:
1. Your goals
2. Your current supports
3. What’s working and what’s not
At Advance Care Agency, we help you prepare for this meeting with clarity and confidence.
3. NDIS Plan Creation
Based on your discussion, the NDIS will create a personalised plan. It may include:
1. Core supports (daily living, transport, consumables)
2. Capacity-building supports (therapy, training, employment)
3. Capital supports (equipment, assistive technology, home modifications)
How Does Funding Work?
NDIS funds go directly to you through your plan. You can:
1. Self-manage: You manage the budget and pay providers
2. Plan-managed: A registered plan manager pays invoices on your behalf
3. NDIA-managed: Only registered NDIS providers can be used, and the NDIA pays them directly
We offer both direct service delivery and support for self-managed and plan-managed participants.
Using Your Plan: Choosing Providers
Once your plan is active, you can choose providers that best suit your needs and goals. At Advance Care Agency, we deliver a range of NDIS-funded supports, including:
1. Daily personal activities
2. Assistance with social and community participation
3. Therapeutic supports
4. Supported independent living (SIL)
5. High-intensity care
We work with both NDIA-managed and self-managed participants.
Review and Update
Most NDIS plans are reviewed annually. However, life is full of changes; goals that do change as well. At least the plan would have to adapt accordingly. We assist with reviews, evidence gathering, and plan optimisation to ensure continued success.
Why the NDIS Is Different?
The NDIS doesn’t check your income and doesn’t change any other government payments. Most importantly, it gives you control over what help you need and who gives it to you.
How does an Advanced Care Agency Help?
We will help you from the start. We will check if you are eligible and submit your application for the NDIS. Then, we will assist you with service coordination and support.
reviews, and plan implementation. Whether you are new to NDIS or wish to extract more from your plan, our experienced team of professionals will assist you.
Contact us today to begin your NDIS journey with the support you need.
