5min read
Customer education, Managing supports, Participant or Nominee, Understanding NDIS
February 16, 2024
Ever since it was officially launched by the Australian government in 2013, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) 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.
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 NDIS participants, these individuals can use the funding that comes with their NDIS 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.
Of course, the type of service that NDIS 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.
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 NDIS plan managers to help their clients find and access support services that allow them to achieve their goals.
For instance, if an NDIS participant’s goal is to meet more people and become more comfortable in social settings, an NDIS plan manager can help their client participate in special programs that are designed to promote community engagements for people with autism.
All of the expenses associated with the services availed by NDIS participants are covered by their NDIS 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.
There are different ways to manage NDIS 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 an NDIS plan management provider is generally considered the best option because it provides NDIS 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 NDIS plans, which means the participants can focus on more important matters.
If you, a family member, a loved one, or someone you know is eligible to receive NDIS autism funding and support, you can apply by visiting the NDIS website or calling the agency through the number 1800 800 110.
Registered service providers can also help you apply for NDIS through their NDIS application assistance services. One of these is AIIM Choices, which has several locations across Australia such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Canberra.
In addition to helping people apply for NDIS, AIIM Choices is also dedicated to providing plan management services to participants. With the help of our plan managers, we’ll make sure that your NDIS plans are updated, your NDIS invoices are paid on time, and that the support services you’re receiving are constantly aligned with your changing needs and goals.
Access NDIS autism funding and start living your best life today by getting in touch with us.
Chat with us online, send us an enquiry, or give us a call 1800 878 978
