Having trouble navigating the NDIS?

You might have been living with your disability for many years, or just a few, when someone in your health team, or a friend mentions the NDIS as an option. 

But where do you even start?

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It seems pretty complicated, doesn’t it?

We understand that it’s a complicated system, and sometimes, you need someone to walk you through the process, whether that’s someone to ask if this is even right for you, or to step you through the process, from thinking about it to getting started on your first plan. 

You can try again! Below are the steps to take once you have made the decision to have a go, remember if you are rejected, you can appeal the decision, or try again, with additional evidence or more supporting letters. 

The process

1. Access the request form - this form can be downloaded from the NDIS website and needs to be completed by yourself and your health practitioner (that could be your GP or we at In-Balance can help you with this
2. Collect your supporting evidence :

• A letter from your allied health practitioner describing your symptoms and how the NDIS can assist you.  They may need to complete surveys and questionnaires with you to help support the application.
• A Letter from your GP or specialist stating your diagnosis and that it is permanent.
• Proof of residency and proof of age.

  3.   Submit your application 

• either by email to NAT@ndis.gov.au 
• or post to GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601

Remember to make copies of all your supporting documentation in case you need it. 

Can someone do it for me?

If this is all too much, speak to your local physio, GP or allied health worker, who can either put you onto someone to walk you through the process, or can do it with you to save you the hassle.

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So why would I want to apply for the NDIS? 

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is a national program that provides funding support for people with disabilities, of all types and all needs levels. 

The support can be given to people with needs that mean they need help with their day to day life, such as showering and dressing, or simply reducing the cost of simple day to day things like a cleaner, and ongoing physiotherapy or exercise therapy to keep them well.  

Remember you don’t have to have in home help to qualify for the NDIS, and you don’t have to give up work!

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NDIS participants may receive funding for: 

Stuff:

• Low cost low risk items such as magnets to assist with shoe laces
• Equipment that needs recommendation from your health team specific to you such as wheelchair, specialist bed, hoist to get equipment in and out of your car

Therapy:

• Payment for therapists to recommend your stuff
• Treatment such as exercise physiology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychology, speech therapy and more

Support people: 

• Domestic assistance such as a cleaner to help you manage your energy levels and take over your share of the house work 
• Pay for a support person to accompany you to something you enjoy, such as a membership for a family member to attend an event with you if you need a driver
• Someone to assist with hygiene