National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian government program aimed at reducing disability-related gaps and barriers between individuals with disabilities and the services they need. NDIS provides direct financial support to assist families and caregivers who provide personal care and support to people with a disability, including those with an autism spectrum disorder. This article provides information on what you need to consider when applying for NDIS funding.
Have documentation ready
You need to make sure that you have your documentation ready for submission. This includes medical records, rehabilitation plans, financial documents, etc. You should take care of these things before applying for NDIS funding. If you are unable to get these documents together yourself then it’s best to seek professional help.
Check eligibility criteria
The eligibility criteria differ according to each state, however, generally speaking, you will be required to meet certain requirements. These include being eligible for Medicare benefits, having a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID), cerebral palsy (CP), traumatic brain injury or concussions, acquired brain injuries, or neurological conditions. Your condition may not necessarily be diagnosed at this stage, but rather they might want to check if you have had any previous diagnoses. In addition to this, you may also have to provide evidence of functional limitations, including sensory impairments, communication difficulties, behavioural issues, social challenges, learning impairment, or physical disabilities.
Prepare application forms
Once you have checked the eligibility criteria for your state, start preparing your application. Make sure you read the guidelines carefully before submitting your paperwork. There are many things that you need to consider while filling out the application forms. Here are some points to note:
- Ensure that you have enough time to complete your application;
- Always keep track of your paperwork and make copies for your records;
- Be honest with yourself and others about your condition;
- Don’t forget to prepare supporting statements;
- Keep in mind that you do not need to submit all of the information stated above. Take time to decide what is relevant to your situation.
Contact the Department of Human Services (DHS)
If you have completed all the preparation steps, you will now need to contact DHS directly for assistance. However, you should always remember to talk to them first, so that they know you are doing everything properly and that you have prepared your documents thoroughly. Also, ensure that you follow their instructions carefully.
Get assistance & advice
Make use of the services provided by the DHS during the application phase. Contact them if you are unsure about anything or need further guidance. They will guide you step-by-step throughout the entire process. Remember, it is likely that you will receive a lot of questions, so don’t worry if you feel nervous or confused.
If you have any questions or concerns, Bharosa is always available at your service!
