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The NDIS stands for National Disability Insurance Scheme, a program introduced by the Australian government to improve the support provided to people living with disability. No matter where you are in Australia or what level of disability you experience, the NDIS aims to make funding accessible and provide comprehensive assistance.
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is the government body responsible for overseeing the implementation of the NDIS. It ensures that participants' rights are protected, maintains quality control, provides helpful information and assists with referrals.
To know if you qualify for NDIS funding, you must meet certain criteria. You should be between the ages of 7 and 65, live in Australia with a permanent or significant disability, and be an Australian citizen or hold a Permanent Visa or a Protected Special Category Visa. If you fit these prerequisites, it is highly likely that you will be eligible for NDIS funding.
We've answered several of the common questions people ask when it comes to the NDIS and how to access supports. But if you don't see your query addressed below, please call us on 0432 260 289. Even if you don't yet have NDIS funding, we're here to help you nagivate the whole process and access the supports you need.
To apply for the NDIS, follow these steps:
NDIS funding covers various support types based on your disability's severity and whether you meet their criteria. Support options include personal in-home care, nursing care, travel/transport assistance, employment and accommodation support, community participation opportunities, assistive technology provisions, and more.
The NDIS evaluates your disability support needs and identifies the level of care required. If your needs are complex or high-intensity and meet specific criteria, you may be eligible for high care funding.
A Support Coordinator is a professional who assists NDIS participants in understanding and implementing their NDIS plan.
Your Brother Bear Support Coordinator will help to connect you with appropriate service providers, coordinate supports, and monitor the progress of your plan. Support Coordinators can also assist with plan reviews and help you achieve their goals.
A Plan Manager is an independent professional who manages the financial aspects of an NDIS participant's plan. They handle the invoicing, payment, and tracking of funds for services rendered, allowing participants to focus on their support services and personal goals.
Plan Managers can also provide financial reports and assist with budgeting.
Self-management is an option for NDIS participants who choose to directly manage their funding and support services. Self-managed participants have greater flexibility and control over their supports, allowing them to engage service providers and support workers who best meet their needs. However, self-management also comes with increased responsibilities, such as managing budgets, invoicing, and record-keeping.
To prepare for an NDIS plan review, follow these steps:
Consult with your Brother Bear Support Coordinator, who will prepare necessary documentation and assist with the following:
It's easy! We want to hear from you no matter where you are with your NDIS journey. Even if you haven't yet applied for NDIS funding, we're here to help. If you're finding the system overwhelming, call us on 0432 260 289. Our experienced team provides support at every stage of the process.
We'd love to hear your story and discuss ways we can help you access the services you need.
We love serving our communities. We provide services in Melbourne, Hume, Moreland, Brimbank, Whittlesea, Moonee Valley, Yarra, Darebin, Banyule, Bendigo, Macedon Ranges and Mitchel Shire regions.
Day Centre & Office:
3/20 Keon Parade
Thomastown 3074
0432 260 289
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At Brother Bear, diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of who we are. We embrace everyone regardless of age, gender identity, race, physical or mental ability or ethnicity. Further, we recognise the objectives of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. We also acknowledge the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to elders past and present.
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ABN 566 683 82901