Autism Funding: How the NDIS Can Help

Key Points

• In addition to physical disabilities, the NDIS also supports individuals with developmental disorders, such as autism.
• Through NDIS funding for autism, participants are able to access various support services that can help them cope with their condition.
• Generally, NDIS participants with autism can receive funding of up to $32,800 per year as part of their plan.
• AIIM Choices’ application assistance service can help people benefit from autism funding by being part of the NDIS.

Summary

Through the NDIS, Australians with disabilities are able to access much-needed support so they can live their best lives. One of these is autism funding, which allows people on the autism spectrum to take advantage of services aimed at helping them cope with their condition. Participants have the option to manage their autism funding in various ways.

Outline

1. Introduction
2. What is NDIS Autism Funding
3. How Does the NDIS Help People with Autism
4. How Much NDIS Funding Can You Get
5. How to Manage Your NDIS Autism Funding
6. How Can I Apply for NDIS Funding for Autism

Ever since it was officially launched by the Australian government in 2013, the National Disability Insurance Scheme has helped countless of Australians with disabilities live their best lives by providing them with access to much-needed support services.

But, aside from individuals with physical disabilities, the NDIS also supports people with other types of disorders, such as developmental conditions. In this article, we’ll explore how people with autism or those on the autism spectrum can benefit from this government-funded initiative.

What is NDIS Autism Funding

People with autism who are eligible to become NDIS participants can access and receive the support that they need through NDIS autism funding. In other words, as participants, these individuals can use the funding that comes with their plan to avail of certain services that are designed to help them cope with their condition. These can include respite care, in-home daily assistance support, therapy & counseling, or transportation services.

Understanding the 3 Levels of ASD

Of course, the type of service that participants with autism can receive can vary depending on their condition. Under the NDIS, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is generally classified into three levels.

Those with Level 1 ASD usually have a hard time initiating interactions and being part of large groups. They also tend to struggle with addressing problems and organising their plans.

People with Level 2 ASD, on the other hand, usually engage in repetitive or restricted types of behaviours. Also, communicating verbally and non-verbally can be challenging for them.

As for those with Level 3 ASD, they tend to show signs of communication deficits, especially in social settings. They’re also prone to experiencing high levels of stress when they find themselves in situations that require them to change their actions.

Being able to identify the level of autism an individual has is vital to ensure that the support services they are receiving are aligned with their condition.

How Does the NDIS Help People with Autism

In addition to identifying an individual’s autism level, the NDIS is also able to help participants receive tailored or personalised services by encouraging them to outline their objectives in their plans. This allows plan managers to help their clients find and access support services that allow them to achieve their goals.

For instance, if a participant’s goal is to meet more people and become more comfortable in social settings, a plan manager can help their client participate in special programs that are designed to promote community engagements for people with autism.

How Much NDIS Funding Can You Get

All of the expenses associated with the services availed by participants are covered by their plan’s funding. Generally, the amount of funding each participant is entitled to receive depends on certain factors, such as their age, condition, and individual needs.

As of this writing, participants with autism receive an average of $32,800 per year in their plans, according to the NDIS. On the other hand, children below seven years old usually receive around $16,700 per year.

How to Manage Your NDIS Autism Funding

There are different ways to manage autism funds, such as management by an agency, a plan, or participants themselves. Out of these three options, the last one, or self-management, provides the most flexibility as it provides participants the freedom to avail of services from both registered and non-registered NDIS service providers.

However, keep in mind that flexibility doesn’t always mean the best in this context. Signing up for the services of a plan management provider is generally considered the best option because it provides participants with their own plan manager.

These professionals, whose services are 100% funded by the NDIS, will handle everything related to the day-to-day administration and implementation of plans, which means the participants can focus on more important matters.

How Can I Apply for NDIS Funding for Autism

If you, a family member, a loved one, or someone you know is eligible to receive funding and support services for autism, you can apply by visiting the NDIS website or calling the agency through the number 1800 800 110.

AIIM Choices can help with the NDIS application process. As a registered service provider, we guide families through application assistance services, and provide ongoing plan management across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Canberra, and other locations in Australia. With the help of our plan managers, we’ll make sure that your plans are updated, your invoices are paid on time, and that the support services you’re receiving are constantly aligned with your changing needs and goals.

Access funding for autism today and start living your best life now by getting in touch with us.