As per government records, over 4.3 million Australians are living with some form of disability. In 2011, a report was submitted by the Productivity Commission, which included a recommendation to the federal government to provide support and necessary services to the disabled. The commission recognised that the existing structure was imbalanced and inadequate. As a result, a scheme called the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) came into effect in 2013, and the scheme became fully operative in 2020.
Who delivers these services?
NDIS registered providers like atWork Australia strive towards improving the living conditions of the disabled people in the country by finding jobs that match their skill sets. Eligible candidates should register in authorised agencies with qualified consultants in their team who can recognise and guide individuals towards achieving their passion. NDIS registered providers are trustworthy since most of them like atWork Australia have secured a contract with Disability Employment Services, an Australian government initiative. The local service providers help the participants access, comprehend, and utilise the funding and review their plan whenever required.
Eligibility
According to the website, all Australians under 65 and have either “a permanent or significant disability” are eligible recipients of the services provided by NDIS. The NDIS covers all forms of disabilities, including mental, psychosocial and physical disabilities. The government aims to encourage people with different disabilities to shed their inhibitions and financial shortcomings to pursue their dreams.
Services to the family
The services offered by the NDIS is not limited to providing job opportunities for the disabled. The scheme covers even payments such as Family Tax Benefit and other regular taxes. The plan gives ample support to disabled people and their families. It supports all the housing needs and care allowances for children who require out-of-home care, and the applicants are not charged any contribution fee for the same. Apart from these, counselling and therapy sessions are also part of the scheme. Registered providers offer therapeutic services to citizens/residents with a valid NDIS plan, which would bring about a considerable difference in the participant’s disposition and overall personality. Local service providers also offer these services for Australians with an NDIS plan. Their team of professional and empathetic counsellors with years of experience in the field will help the candidates to overcome various challenges.
Specific areas covered by the scheme
The participants’ day-to-day needs and the various spheres of social life they take part in determine the services provided by the scheme. The funding may help the participants to:
- Lead an independent life (get a job in the community, make use of the transportation services, learn driving etc.)
- Get assistance with daily needs (for household chores, for taking showers, money management etc.)
- Get necessary therapies and behavioural support (various psychosocial therapies as per individual needs).
Who can manage the money?
The parents or a responsible guardian can utilise the money on behalf of the recipient if they are a minor. Adult participants who find it challenging to manage the money on their own can still opt for the self-management scheme. In this case, a nominee entrusted by the authorities will help the participant make necessary decisions whenever required.
NDIS is a saving grace to many struggling Australian citizens. They deserve the same prospects as everyone else, and NDIS provides them with it.
