Navigate the NDIS Like a Pro

Behaviour support is a crucial part of the NDIS, aimed at improving quality of life for NDIS participants. But what exactly does it entail? This article unpacks the key concepts, processes, and goals of behaviour support, offering insights for individuals, families, support workers, and NDIS providers.

Support Coordinators across Australia play a crucial role in managing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants, particularly those with complex care needs. With over 500,000 participants now in the NDIS, these professionals face significant challenges that require exceptional coordination skills, a deep understanding of NDIS frameworks, and strategic planning abilities.

A skilled and well-trained support worker ensures each participant’s needs are met and that all support team members help them achieve their goals. Here is what you can expect from them. Understanding the various categories of needs and individual support is critical in assisting those with an impairment or disability. Doing this helps us get a clear view of the roles of an NDIS support worker. The responsibilities may vary depending on individual needs, broken down into three main areas.

This article will delve into the key stakeholders, current challenges, funding and support mechanisms, provider roles, participant experiences, and the future of the NDIS. The disability sector in Australia has undergone significant disruption and change since I started working in the sector 12 years ago largely driven by the implementation of the NDIS. In that period I have worked in the WA state government Disability Service Commission (DSC) block funding model, worked as a Local Coordinator in the WA NDIS (WA’s own version of the NDIS) and finally within the national NDIS model and its subsequent iterations.

Ok, so you’ve got your NDIS plan… now what? It’s often a long process to get an NDIS plan that meets your needs and now is the fun part- turning your funding into supports! Using your plan effectively is critical to achieving your goals and getting the support you need. 

Support Coordination benefits anyone who could use some help understanding and using their NDIS plan. Unfortunately, it’s not funded for everyone. About 43% of people accessing the NDIS are funded for Support Coordination. Support Coordination looks different for everyone but is based on similar principles of capacity building and safeguarding. 

Knowing what to expect during your NDIS planning meeting can help you feel more prepared and confident. Remember to ask any questions you may have during the meeting and advocate for your needs and preferences. If you feel you would benefit from support in the meeting request your Support Coordinator and/or trusted support people to attend with you and add their perspective and input to strengthen the evidence provided to the NDIA, services you currently receive, including the types of supports, providers, and frequency of services. This will help the planner understand your current support network and any gaps that need to be addressed.

As awareness around mental health continues to grow, understanding its support within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) becomes increasingly crucial. This article delves into the intricate relationship between mental health and the NDIS, shedding light on available supports, eligibility criteria, and the process involved in accessing these vital services.

Are you feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about your upcoming NDIS planning meeting? Don't worry, you're not alone. Preparing for this important event can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies, you can make sure you get the support you need. In this article, we will guide you through the best ways to prepare for your NDIS planning meeting. Whether you're a participant, carer, or NDIS provider our tips and advice will help you navigate this process with confidence.