Disability Support Guide Central & Western Australia (NT/SA/WA) 2023

Contents Quick Guide

Use this ‘Quick Guide’ to go straight to the information explaining different support services and directory tables of providers operating in Central & Western Australia.

In

Home & Community Support 49

Community access and inclusion 52

Domestic assistance 52

Home maintenance and gardening 53

Life skills 53

Multicultural support 53

Meals and shopping 56

Personal care 56 Respite 56

Sports, social and recreational support 60

Transport 60

Travel and holidays 60

NT Provider directory 62-63 SA Provider directory 64-88

WA Provider directory 89-100

Therapists & Specialists 101

Behavioural support 104

Dietitians/Nutritionists 104

Early intervention 105

Occupational therapists 105

Paediatricians 108

Physiotherapists 108

Psychologists 108

Speech therapists 109

Therapeutic supports 109

Training/workshops 109

NT Provider directory 110-111

SA Provider directory 112-119

WA Provider directory 120-126

Accommodation 127

24-hour emergency accommodation 131

Housing and public housing 131

Long-term accommodation 132 Respite 132 Shared living 133

Short-term accommodation 133

Specialist Disability Accommodation 133

Supported independent living 134

Tenancy 134

NT Provider directory 135-137

SA Provider directory 138-151 WA Provider directory 152-156

Advisors 157

Assessments 160

Case coordinators 160

Education support 160

Employment support 161

Financial services 161

Intervention support 162

Plan managers 162

Support coordinators 163

NT Provider directory 164-167 SA Provider directory 168-177 WA Provider directory 178-184

Equipment & Technology 185

Assistive technology 187

Communication equipment 187

Continence products 188

Educational toys 188

Healthcare products 189

Home modifications 189

Mobility equipment 189

Vehicle modifications 189

NT Provider directory 191-192

SA Provider directory 193-196

WA Provider directory 197-200

Mental Health 201

Mental health support 203

Helplines 203

Mental health nurses 203

Psychologists 203

Psychiatrists 204

Psychosocial support 204

Social workers 204

NT Provider directory 205-206

SA Provider directory 207-209

WA Provider directory 210-211

From the Managing Editor 2

Purpose of this Guide/How to use 4 About disability support services 6 Start your NDIS journey – flow chart 9 Types of disabilities 10

Disability at different ages 12

Understanding the NDIS 18

Eligibility 19

How to apply for the NDIS 19 Partners of the NDIS 20

Early intervention under NDIS 21 Planning meeting and your first plan 23 NDIS Planning Meeting Checklist 28-29

What support can I get? 30

What is Core support? 31 What is Capital support? 32 What is Capacity building support? 33 Managing your plan 38 NDIS pricing 41

Financial support 43

Education 44

Employment and volunteering options 45 Accessible transport 46 Supporting your rights 47 Carer support 48

In Home & Community Support 49

In Home & Community Support Directory 62-100 Therapist & Specialists 101 Therapists & Specialist Directory 110-126

Accommodation 127 Accommodation Directory 135-156

Advisors 157

Advisors Directory 164-184 Equipment & Technology 185 Equipment & Technology Directory 191-200

Mental Health 201

Mental Health Directory 205-211

Resources 212

Definitions and often used terms 212-213

Abbreviations 213

How to read the tables 214

National useful phone numbers and websites 215

NT useful phone numbers & websites 216

NT area map 217

SA area map 219

SA useful phone numbers & websites 220 WA area map 222

WA useful phone numbers & websites 223 Index 224

Feature stories

Louise’s story - Advocating to get the best supports for your child 16-17

Bella’s story - A sense for good tea and successful business ideas 36-37

Learning about meaningful relationships changed Lenny’s life 54-55 A perfect mix of independence and companionship 58-59

Local support means Carl can do more 106-107

From the Managing Editor

Disability Support Guide

Central & Western Australia (NT/SA/WA) 2023

Printed December 2022

RRP $12.95, inc GST

Managing Editor

Margot White margot.white@dps.com.au

Chief Executive Officer

Michelle Beech

DPS Publishing Pty Ltd

ABN 53 090 793 730 PO Box 1026 Pasadena SA 5042 1300 186 688

info@disabilitysupportguide.com.au DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au

Advertising sales@dps.com.au 1300 186 688

Distribution distribution@dps.com.au 1300 186 688

Proudly produced and printed in Australia

The factual material contained in this publication has been obtained from informationsuppliedbygovernment departments,industryandorganisations, by personal interview and by telephone and correspondence. At the time of going to press the publisher believed that all informationsubmittedforpublication was accurate and complete. However, the publisher can take no responsibility for inaccuraciesorincompleteinformation thatmayhavebeensuppliedtothem in the course of their enquiries detailed above. The facts published indicate the result of those enquiries and no warranty as to their accuracy can be given.

Images within this publication may have been altered from their original format. Images:Shutterstock.com

© Copyright. No part of this publication can be used or reproduced in any format without express permission in writing from The Publisher.

® Disability Support Guide trademark, DPS Guide to Disability Support is pendingregistration.

It’s my pleasure to welcome you to the Disability Support Guide Central and Western Australia 2023.

A publication to help you find your way through the many different options and considerations when learning about and searching for disability support.

You may be on the search for information about disabilities or trying to find out how to access Government funding. Or you may be looking to find local support services to help out at home, develop new skills or help you be part of the community when living with disability.

As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum I know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed and confused by the enormous amount of information, as well as the long journey, from the first inkling at two and a half that ‘something wasn’t right’, to an official diagnosis just shy of his eighth birthday.

Having experienced the long road of countless visits to specialists and therapists, going through numerous assessments in search for a diagnosis, then working through all the different support options out there and finding the best one for us while trying to access the NDIS and preparing for our first plan, I know just how much a support guide like our Disability Support Guide can help.

The disability journey is unique to each and every person and their family and carers, and we know that everyone enters the path of information gathering and decision making at different stages. But, for almost everyone on the disability journey, one thing is clear: navigating the maze of disability support services can be overwhelming and every situation is unique.

In a time when emotions are high and you really should be able to focus your attention on making sure you and your loved one receive the best supports possible, you shouldn’t have to spend endless hours researching how an occupational therapist can help your child or who to contact for information about modifying your home to help you live independently.

With the knowledge that no two people face the same challenges or have the same needs, and knowing the importance of being able to find the best support for your circumstances in order to make informed choices, we have developed this Guide alongside our online resource DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au.

We have collected all the information you need in one go-to-place, explaining what is involved and what you can expect. Amongst the information you’ll also find a handful of case studies from people who have travelled the road to supports before you and were willing to share their experiences.

On top of that we have included an extensive list of service providers to help you reach your goals and live your best life with the right supports in place.

So, whether you are searching for yourself, a child, a partner, parent, friend or other loved one, the Disability Support Guide is here to help you live your best life with the right supports and information.

And when you’re ready to share the story of your disability journey please contact me on 08 8276 7999 or send me an email at margot.white@dps.com.au.

Margot White – Managing Editor

Let’s make life better, Together.

When you select Baptist Care SA as your registered NDIS Provider, we work with you to get the best out of your NDIS plan.

Whether it’s: • support in your daily life • assistance to join in with your community • help in building positive relationships • or ways to improve your health and wellbeing.

At Baptist Care SA, you are our number one priority. NDIS PROVIDER

ndis@baptistcaresa.org.au baptistcaresa.org.au

Jonah, Baptist Care SA Disability Pathways Client

We go for walks, we watch videos and go to skate parks, and I like showing him my guitar.”

“

Purpose of this Guide

The number of Australians living with disability under the age of 65 is growing and the number of people receiving support from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is already more than 500,000.

Most importantly, the NDIS gives you more choice and control over the supports you receive.

In 2018, DPS Publishing made the decision to apply their more than 20 years knowledge of providing the Aged Care Guide into a State and Territory focused guide for disability, and launched the Disability Support Guide

Just like the much-loved Aged Care Guide, the Disability Support Guide is a starting point for people with disability, their families, carers and even service providers, no matter what stage of the journey you are at.

The Australian Government is working with the disability sector to improve and set up supports for those in need now and into the future.

The NDIS was first trialled in 2013, before gradually rolling out nationally between 2016-2020.

The national program provides support for people with disability, their families and carers and aims to build skills and capability so you can participate in your community.

How to use the Guide

Inside these pages, you’ll find relevant, up-todate and accurate information to assist you on your journey. From navigating the NDIS and learning about the different types of disabilities, right through to finding disability supports that suit your needs.

In the first part of the Guide you will find information articles on a range of topics, alongside inspiring feature stories from fellow Australians who share their journey of navigating the system and seeking disability supports for themselves or their loved one.

It will help you navigate and understand your needs and position in what is often a confusing and overwhelming time, and help create some order among the confusion.

In the back half of the book, starting from page 49, you’ll find six sections covering

In Home & Community Support, Therapists & Specialists, Accommodation, Advisors, Equipment & Technology and Mental Health. These sections provide useful information about some of the most commonly searched support services.

These colour coded sections also include directory tables of a number of providers that have verified their listings with DPS, indicating that they deliver services in Central & Western Australia.

In this Guide you’ll find relevant, up-to-date and accurate information to assist you on your journey

The tables are particularly handy for discovering the specific supports different disability providers offer, if they deliver their services in a practice or can come to you, as well as what age groups they focus on.

To get an understanding of how to read the tables go to page 214

In the ‘Resources’ section, starting on page 212, you’ll also find a list of common terms and definitions, and State and Territory specific information such as useful phone numbers and region maps.

The printed Disability Support Guide also interconnects with our online resource: DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au

Here you can find a complete overview of providers and services registered for each State and Territory.

Type the listed ‘DSG Web ID’ from any provider inside the Guide in the search bar on the homepage, to locate more information about who they are and what they offer.

About disability support services

For some people with disability life can be made easier when they have access to support. In Australia, there are lots of support options available, depending on the type of disability that you have and where you live.

There is also support available to help your carer look after you or to help them when they are unable to support you because of illness or if they need to take a break.

You can read more about carer support on page 48.

Formal supports

There is a large range of for-profit and not-for-profit disability support services in Central and Western Australia that can provide support for people with disability. These range from smaller organisations such as local churches and community organisations to larger national operators.

Informal support

One of the most commonly used types of disability support is informal support. Any help you’re receiving from family, friends and social networks and that you’re not paying for is considered informal support.

If you are using informal support it can still be useful to have a system in place, such as a calendar or spreadsheet, to coordinate who helps out with what and when, to ensure you have support when you need it.

Formal supports can be a good way to get focused assistance, such as medical support, therapies, domestic assistance or personal care, provided by experienced and trained support workers.

Discover a range of formal disability support providers and services in the directory section starting on page 49 or head to DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au .

Government funded services

If you have a disability you may be eligible for disability support through Government funded services.

This can range from in home support, such as domestic assistance, through to support in other ways such as disability support officers to help young people navigate school and family situations or accessing respite away from home.

The Government also provides funding to access groups that can provide social support for people with disability, their parents and carers. This can be an important aspect of helping people with disability enjoy a fulfilling life, including being able to interact with peers to the best of their ability.

If you are not sure about what sort of services you or the person you care for could benefit from, it can be worth speaking to your doctor. They can help you to design a care and support plan taking into account your current and future needs. They can also direct you to local service providers.

National Standards

To help ensure you are accessing the same disability services and support as everyone else right across the nation, the Australian Government has created some guidelines known as the National Standards for Disability Services.

Designed with the help of people with disability, families, friends, carers, service providers, advocacy organisations and peak disability bodies, the National Standards focus on the rights and outcomes of people with disability by encouraging choice and control.

The National Standards also help maintain the quality of disability services by ensuring they:

1. Promote your individual rights to freedom of expression, self-determination and decisionmaking, as well as actively prevent abuse, harm, neglect and violence against people with disability.

2. Work alongside you, your family, friends and carers to promote opportunities for meaningful participation and active inclusion in society.

3. Plan, deliver, assess and review services and supports to ensure they help build on your strengths and reach your goals.

4. Seek regular feedback as a basis to inform individual and organisation-wide service reviews and improvement.

5. Manage the service in a transparent, fair, equal and responsive way.

6. Ensure effective and accountable service management and leadership to maximise outcomes for all individuals.

The National Standards are in place to make sure that people with disability are at the centre of the planning and delivery of support services so that you are given the opportunity to take control of your life.

Australia’s Disability Strategy

Like the National Standards for Disability Services, Australia’s Disability Strategy works to protect and promote your human rights.

The Strategy aims to improve the services and supports you access, address disability issues, guide Government activity across mainstream and disability specific areas of public policy and create a more inclusive Australia.

The Strategy has seven main focus areas: ⃝ Employment and Financial Security

Inclusive Homes and Communities

Safety, Rights and Justice

Personal and Community Support

Education and Learning

Health and Wellbeing ⃝ Community Attitudes

Overall, the National Standards for Disability Services and Australia’s Disability Strategy aim to support you during all stages of your life by ensuring high-quality services are available to help you reach your potential within your local community.

The National Standards help maintain the quality of disability services and encourage choice and control for people with disability

Types of disabilities

In general, a disability is a physical, mental, cognitive or developmental condition that is likely to be permanent and impacts a person’s ability to engage or take part in everyday activities or interactions.

There are many different types of disabilities and each one can affect people in different ways. There are different causes of disability. The condition may be due to a genetic condition, the result of an injury or illness, or can be caused by complications during pregnancy or birth.

However, sometimes the reason for disability is simply unknown or can’t be determined.

The different types of disabilities can roughly be grouped into four main categories: physical, intellectual, sensory and mental health.

Physical disabilities

A physical disability involves long-term or permanent loss of part of your body’s physical function. It can affect your mobility, stamina or skills in performing tasks. Physical disabilities can be genetic and the result of something that happened during pregnancy or birth or can happen as part of an illness or injury.

Physical disabilities commonly involve impairments of the neuromusculoskeletal system, such as amputation, accident or injury, acquired brain injury, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson’s disease, polio, respiratory disorders or spina bifida.

For more information on physical disabilities, visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au .

Intellectual disabilities

There is a wide range of intellectual disabilities and the level of disability can vary from person to person.

Somebody with an intellectual disability may think, learn or communicate differently, which poses challenges in relationship building, education, behaviour, inclusion and employment.

Intellectual disabilities can be genetic or caused by complications during pregnancy or birth, through some illnesses, exposure to alcohol and drugs or after an accident.

The most common intellectual disabilities include autism, developmental delay, Down syndrome, fetal alcohol spectrum syndrome and fragile x syndrome.

To find out more about intellectual disabilities, visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au .

Around one-third of Australian households include a person with disability

Sensory disabilities

Everyday we use our senses to understand the world around us. For someone with a sensory disability this is particularly difficult.

A sensory disability affects a person’s senses; their sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste or spacial awareness.

People with sensory disability may feel sensory input more or less intensely than other people which impacts on a person’s ability to interact in different environments and perform daily activities.

For people with sensory difficulties there are three main components:

⃝

Sensory modulation disorder is a problem with turning sensory messages into controlled behaviour that matches the nature and intensity of the sensory information. For example, over-reactions to touch, movement, sounds, odours and tastes can cause discomfort, avoidance, distractibility and anxiety.

For example, deficits in balance, gross motor and fine motor coordination and the ability to perform skilled, familiar and/or novel motor actions.

⃝ Sensory discrimination disorder is a problem with sensing similarities and differences between sensations. For example, incorrect processing of visual or auditory input, inattentiveness, disorganisation and poor school performance.

⃝

Sensory-based motor disorder is a problem with stabilising, moving or planning a series of movements in response to sensory demands.

The most common sensory disabilities include autism, hearing impairment, sensory processing disorder and vision impairment.

For more information on sensory disabilities, visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au .

Mental health

According to the World Health Organisation, mental health is a state of wellbeing in which every individual realises their own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and is able to make a contribution to their community.

Severe mental health conditions can cause psychological disabilities. Someone living with a mental illness may withdraw from work, education and social activities as it affects thoughts, moods, behaviour and the way people perceive the world around them.

People with mental illness may require medication or regular psychological assessments to manage their condition.

It is important to remember not all mental health conditions are considered a disability under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). However, if the psychosocial disability is permanent or likely to be permanent, has a significant impact on the person’s everyday life and their ability to participate in the community and is likely to require lifelong support, you may receive NDIS support, providing you meet the other age and residency requirements.

Common mental health conditions include schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and depression.

To find out more about psychosocial disability, head to DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au

Someone with a sensory disability may feel sensory input more or less intensely than other people

Disability at different ages

Living life through different stages, from infancy to early childhood and primary school age, adolescence, adulthood and into old age, all have their own challenges and demands.

For a person with disability, going through these developmental transitions means that the focus and supports may change over time.

The focus of supports for a child with disability in primary school won’t be the same as for an adult. And a teenager on the path to independence has different challenges from a person with disability nearing the age of 65 who may be looking at a possible transition into aged care services.

To help you find age appropriate support, age groups are highlighted within each directory table in the second half of this Guide.

For preschool children with disability, early intervention is the best way to support their development

Preschool 0 - 4 years

The first few years of a child’s life are a very exciting time. As we watch them learn new things, discover the world and reach important milestones, it is an especially pivotal time for a child with special needs.

For preschool aged children with disability, early intervention is the best way to support their development. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s development speak to your GP or paediatrician. They can monitor your child’s progress and direct you to other health services if needed.

Once your child has been diagnosed, your doctor can suggest therapies or services best suited to your child. Your therapy options could involve parent-child therapy, one-on-one intervention with a therapist or a group session with other children.

Early intervention will work best when tailored to your child’s individual needs with intensive early intervention proving the most effective. However, the quality of therapy is always better than the quantity.

Most therapies can be undertaken at a range of locations including in the comfort of your own home, in a therapist’s office, at child care or kindergarten or online via video conferencing.

Some common therapies for preschool aged children include occupational therapy for fine motor skills, physiotherapy for balance, sitting, crawling and walking, and speech therapy to help with speech, language and eating and drinking skills. Disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, hearing and vision impairments may require specialised support.

A range of early intervention therapies are available through hospitals, community health centres, specialist disability services or early intervention services.

When choosing early intervention therapies and services for your child, make sure they are: ⃝ Family and child focused ⃝ Flexible and allow yourself and other family members to work alongside your child ⃝ Tailored to your child’s needs ⃝ Focused on the development of new skills ⃝ Well-structured and supportive ⃝ Proven effective through evidence-based research on real people ⃝

Developmentally appropriate with tailored plans and qualified staff

⃝ Monitoring progress regularly ⃝ Specifically designed for children with disability.

It’s important to remember every child is different and no single program will suit every child with disability and their family.

As a parent, it’s vital to do your research, ask questions and focus on what you want for you and your child, when planning their early intervention strategies.

You can find a range of support options in the directory tables starting on page 49 or visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au

Every child is different and no single program will suit every child with disability and their family

Kids 5 -12 years

Between the ages of five and 12, your child continues to grow and develop, their world gets bigger and they start to further expand important relationships outside the family environment.

Becoming independent, developing friendships, getting along with people and learning how to manage problems and conflicts can be challenging skills to master for children with disability.

Helping your child to work through those challenges and teaching them tools and strategies to manage different situations and people are important skills to develop during those years.

For many children with a disability, schooling can be a challenging time. However, there are a number of ways to make this easier and ensure they feel supported by parents, teachers and peers as they develop lifelong skills.

As a parent of a child with disability you are able to choose the best option for your child and your family, regardless of their level of disability. Besides choosing the type of school, there are other aspects to consider such as financial costs, accessibility and safety.

A range of disability support options are available to help your child throughout their schooling years, with most schools catering to children with disability. To find out more about educational support, turn to page 44.

Supports may change as your child gets older and you may want to check in with therapists and support services to make sure they still meet your child’s needs.

As your child approaches high school age, you may want to consider putting supports in place to assist with the transition from primary school to high school.

Adding community supports, such as local sporting clubs, community activities or support groups, can all be an extra social component that can benefit your child’s development at this age.

Getting your child the support they need as early as possible puts them in good stead for the future. You can find disability service providers offering a range of supports in the back half of this Guide starting on page 49 or visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au .

Teenagers 13 -17 years

Transitioning to adulthood is a huge emotional and psychological step, where hormonal changes, secondary education and preparing for employment play a key role.

During this time, teenagers often feel selfconscious and pay particular attention to the views and opinions of those around them.

It is important for people with disability to have the necessary supports to navigate adolescence, learn life skills and find their way into becoming independent adults.

Challenges may arise during puberty with hormonal and body changes. There are a number of health workshops that can help people with disability and their families understand the changes that are taking place.

Government bodies also provide a myriad of information on adolescent issues for people with disability. Keeping an open line of communication between parents and doctors is just as important.

A number of programs are available to help with the transition of people with disability from high school to the workforce. Often these are run as vocational training, where students gain credit towards their high school accreditation through a work placement. This enables them to learn lifelong communication, teamwork and time management skills while building relationships with customers and colleagues.

Most high schools also provide career counselling which can help people with disability decide on a career path, establish a plan and set goals for getting there.

For people with disability, the transition into adulthood can be daunting and overwhelming, but support from family, friends, colleagues and teachers, among other support staff, can help them reach their full potential.

For a list of support options go to the directory section of this Guide starting on page 49 or visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au

Adults 18 - 64 years

With some planning, support and encouragement adults with disability can learn new skills, build relationships, be part of the community, and ultimately live a meaningful life.

Approximately one in six adults with disability live independently, and for those who don’t, an accommodation, support and financial plan needs to be put in place for when their parents or carers are unable to support them anymore.

Adults living with disability face a variety of challenges on a daily basis in the community and in the workplace. There may be barriers around attitude, communication or physical obstacles. Alongside discrimination and accessibility, the main barrier adults with disability face is opportunities for employment.

Statistics show approximately 48 percent of people with a disability aged between 15 and 64 years old are currently employed.

Challenges may arise during puberty with hormonal and body changes, stress and low self esteem

This is significantly lower than the 80 percent of working age people without disability who are employed.

The Department of Social Services’ Disability Employment Services (DES) offers employment assistance for job seekers with disability across a network of Australian organisations.

These organisations play a pivotal role in helping people with disability, injury or a health condition prepare, search for and maintain employment.

The Government’s Job Access initiative is a national hub that also provides information and resources to people with disability, employers and service providers.

Read more about employment and volunteering options on page 45.

Seniors 65+ years

Just over half of Australians aged over 65 years old live with a disability, with almost 20 percent of older Australians living with a profound or severe disability.

The likelihood of living with disability increases with age. Two out of five people with disability are aged 65 years or older, whereas almost nine in 10 people aged 90 and over (88 percent) have a disability.

If you became a participant of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) before you turned 65 years old, you can continue to receive services funded by the Scheme, as long as it meets your needs.

If you live in an area where NDIS is available but you are over 65 years old you will not be eligible for NDIS support. In this case the supports you have been receiving previously through a State or Territory funded disability support program will continue but they will have been transferred to a national program called the Disability Support for Older Australians Program (DSOA). This program, run by the Australian Government’s Department of Health, will make sure you’ll receive ongoing support at the same level as before.

DSOA provides accommodation support, community support such as counselling, therapy and behavioural support, community access such as life skills development and recreation programs and respite.

If you are not eligible for the DSOA program and aged over 65 years old you may be eligible to receive assistance through Government funded aged care supports.

The AgedCareGuide.com.au website can help you find information about the different types of aged care options available, eligibility, referrals to service providers and the cost of your aged care support.

The printed Aged Care Guide offers detailed information about all Government and nonGovernment aged care options available, as well as a comprehensive list of home and aged care providers and retirement communities in Australia.

Order a copy of the Aged Care Guide for your State or Territory by visiting AgedCareGuide.com.au or call 1300 186 688.

Photo: Daryl Charles - supplied by Eurella Community Services, NSW

Just over half of Australians aged 65 years and over live with a disability

Louise’s story - Advocating to get the best supports for your child

For many women, pregnancy is a happy time full of anticipation about how life will become more exciting once their baby enters the world. But for some, a diagnosis of an unexpected condition can mean adjusting those hopes and dreams to better support their unique child.

When Louise was 20 weeks pregnant with her daughter Abigail she found out her baby did not have a corpus callosum - a nerve tract in the brain that connects the left and right sides.

The birth defect can lead to developmental delays, poor muscle tone and challenges with coordination, as well as impaired vision and hearing.

Several doctors gave Louise and her husband, Daniel, the option to terminate the pregnancy, telling them the baby had a 10 percent chance of survival past the age of one, but they couldn’t give up the hope of that chance.

Nine years later, Abigail is a happy and healthy member of the family - with an older brother and two younger brothers. She certainly has made life more exciting for the family.

“It’s been an adventure,” says Louise. “We’ve had ups and downs over the last nine years, there’s been lots of learnings from my point of view about what the corpus callosum is and what it does.

“The saying is that if you know what a corpus callosum is then you don’t have one, because most people with a corpus callosum can go through life not really caring how their brain actually functions, as long as it’s doing its job, but if you don’t have a corpus callosum then you kind of do care and you need extra support.”

Challenges with milestones

In her short life, Abigail has faced challenges with fine and gross motor skills, forgetfulness, social skills and childhood milestones, but continues to develop with help from therapists and her supportive family.

Louise recalls, “In the beginning she had a paediatrician, and every appointment he’d ask if she was achieving some milestone and I would say ‘no’. It was almost like she heard because she would actually do it the next day - which was kind of frustrating and funny at the same time.”

With the support of therapists and her family, Abigail is thriving and has grown into a chatty young girl who loves her food, loves animals, and is coping well in a mainstream school.

Goals she has set for herself, in particular to learn to run faster and to be any number of professionals when she grows up - from a baker to an athlete, have surprised the family.

NDIS support

For the past three years Abigail has had a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan, which is used to fund occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and anything else that will help her to reach her goals.

“It took 12 months from when we applied to her getting onto the scheme.”

As she grows Abigail is developing into a happy, chatty girl.

Photo: Supplied

Louise is an Occupational Therapist (OT) herself, and even though she has some grounding in how the NDIS works and how to advocate for the children she supports at work, she has found that advocating for her own child requires a new set of skills.

Although the NDIS is a “godsend” for the family, she says it has been a “head fracture” at the same time.

“It took 12 months from when we actually applied to her getting onto the scheme,” says Louise.

“The GP, paediatrician, speech therapist, physio and OT all needed to write reports and then we needed to fill in a lot of forms - which someone else did for me. That was great because at that time I just didn’t have the headspace to do it and a lot of the questions were a bit like, ‘I have no idea what you’re asking’.

“So I found someone else who knew and they helped.”

Learning about support

Over time Louise has learned that “broad and basic” goals in Abigail’s NDIS plan will mean there is more leeway in how the funding can be spent, and that setting goals that are too specific can also make them more difficult to achieve.

Developing relationships between herself, Abigail and the various therapists has also been a learning curve for Louise.

She says a strong connection can make a big difference to the quality of the support because Abigail can be anxious towards strangers and may not engage unless she likes them.

“You’ve got to be happy with who you’re seeing because if you’re not then the therapy isn’t going to go well,” says Louise.

For other parents with a child on the NDIS, Louise suggests shopping around for supports that are best suited to your child, as some supports that can make a big

difference may not be obvious at first glance.

The small wins

Louise also says it is important while working hard to advocate for your child to remember all of the things they have achieved - as it will give you the energy to keep fighting for them.

“Even when it’s been harder for me I’ve just had to look at the small wins,” explains Louise.

“She wasn’t easy to toilet train, she wasn’t easy to really do anything with. For the first 18 months of her life she clung to me and wouldn’t go to anyone else to settle. So I’ve had to remind myself that she is smashing her goals and reaching milestones.

“It’s been a wild ride, but that’s parenting I think too, even with children who don’t have the delightfulness that Abby does.”

Louise’s biggest piece of advice is to always have hope for your child, because “sometimes the doctors get it wrong”.

“A strong connection can make a big difference to the quality of the support.”

“Even when it’s been harder for me I’ve just had to look at the small wins.”

Understanding the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Government initiative that was established to provide Australians aged under 65 years and living with disability, with reasonable and necessary support in their everyday life, to help them live as independently as possible.

The NDIS was officially launched in 2016 after a successful three year trial period. The Scheme has been introduced to centralise disability support and replace most State and Territory based funding. It aims to give all Australians with disability who are eligible for the Scheme access to similar supports regardless of where they live.

It is set up as an ‘insurance scheme’ which means that it takes a lifetime approach by providing people with disability, their families and carers with funding for support needed to provide long-term outcomes.

Currently more than 530,000 people are accessing the NDIS.

Who runs it?

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is the independent Australian Government agency coordinating the NDIS.

It is the central body that will provide information and referrals, linking participants to services and activities, in order to deliver the best individualised plans in the Scheme.

NDIS objectives

The NDIS funds supports that are necessary for you to achieve your goals.

The Scheme recognises that needs and goals are different for everyone but the overall aim is to:

⃝ Help you develop greater independence

⃝ Assist you to get more involved in the community

⃝ Support you in getting a job

⃝ Find ways to improve your overall wellbeing.

Services and support

In your NDIS plan you are able to receive Core, day-to-day living support for a range of activities so you can start or continue your participation in the community.

You may also be entitled to Capital supports which will give you access to resources or equipment such as wheelchairs, assistive technology and home or car modifications. There will also be an option for Capacity building supports that will help you develop life skills, educational opportunities or help you find employment.

For more information on Core, Capital and Capacity building supports turn to page 30.

Accessing the NDIS

You may be eligible to access NDIS supports if you live in Australia and have Australian residency, are younger than 65 and have a disability that affects your ability to perform everyday activities.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, have a lifelong condition recognised under the NDIS or if you’re a child up to six years old with developmental delay that can be reduced by early intervention, you can access the scheme.

The NDIS recognises that each person has different needs and it works by allocating you funds to implement an agreed plan of supports specific to your needs. The support plan may change over time to reflect any progress in your situation and any changes in your personal circumstances.

Eligibility

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is available to support people living with disability in Australia. Before you can access the Scheme, you must first meet its eligibility criteria.

Anyone meeting the NDIS eligibility is called a participant and through the Scheme, they will be able to access funded supports and an individual plan.

Supports and funding through the NDIS are available to anyone with intellectual, physical or mental health (psychosocial) conditions and will be provided to all Australians who meet the access requirements.

To determine if you can access supports under the NDIS you need to meet a number of access requirements:

⃝ Your age

The NDIS is only available to people with disability under the age of 65.

⃝

Availability in your area

To access the NDIS, it must be available in your area.

⃝

What disability you have

You must be living with a disability that affects your ability to perform everyday activities. The condition must be recognised under the NDIS as needing ‘reasonable and necessary supports’. Most people with intellectual, physical or mental health (psychosocial) conditions are eligible for NDIS support. OR;

⃝

Your residency status

You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold a Protected Special Category Visa to be allowed access to NDIS supports.

NDIS supports aim to:

• help develop independence

• assist to get involved in the community

• support in getting a job

• improve overall wellbeing

You qualify under the NDIS early intervention requirements if you are a child up to the age of six with a developmental delay that can be reduced by early intervention supports.

If you think you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply to join the NDIS.

How to apply for the NDIS

You will only be able to access the NDIS if you meet all of the eligibility criteria.

To become an NDIS participant and receive NDIS support, you will need to contact the NDIA and request an Access Request Form. Call the NDIA on 1800 800 110 to request an Access Request Form or visit ndis.gov.au.

Within the form you will be asked to confirm who you are and you’ll need to answer a number of questions to see if you meet the NDIS access requirements. You may also be asked for some additional information about your disability.

Once all the sections of your Access Request Form have been completed it must be submitted to the NDIA for consideration.

If your application has been approved you will be contacted by the NDIA or a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to arrange a planning meeting.

It is important to note that there can be a wait for your application to be processed or between being accepted as an NDIS participant and having your planning meeting.

While you wait you can access privately funded supports or get a referral from your GP to get a management plan to access specific services. You can read more about what to expect and how to prepare for a planning meeting on page 23.

Partners of the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is delivering the best support possible to assist people with disability in exercising their right to choice and control. Over 530,000 people around Australia already have an approved individualised plan, with that number continuing to grow.

In the Northern Territory more than 5,200 people are supported by the NDIS. The Scheme supports more than 46,600 people living with disability in South Australia and over 48,000 people in Western Australia.

Local Area Coordinators

Across the country the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has partnered with local community based organisations who work with people with disability in the community to help with their NDIS journey.

These Local Area Coordinators (LACs) assist the NDIA in working with you as a participant to set goals as well as prepare and implement your plan.

For most people LACs are their main contact point for the NDIS. They will work with you to set your goals and create a plan to achieve those

They have been selected for their deep understanding and knowledge of disability and its impact on individuals, families and carers.

LACs have three key roles:

⃝ linking you to the NDIS  ⃝ providing you with information and support in the community

⃝ working with your local community to make sure it’s both welcoming and inclusive for people with disability.

For many people LACs are the main contact point for the NDIS.

Once your request to be part of NDIS has been approved, you will be notified and a LAC representative will contact you to arrange a planning meeting. The LAC will work with you to put your plan together and will send it to the NDIA for approval.

It’s important to remember that while the LAC puts your plan together and submits your plan, they don’t approve it. This is the responsibility of the NDIA.

Once your plan is approved, the LAC helps you put your plan into action, known as plan implementation, and they will ensure you maintain the supports in your NDIS plan while helping achieve your goals.

The LAC can also help you understand your plan, choose and connect with service providers, explore and link you with community and mainstream options and re-assess your supports with you and your family as your plan progresses.

LACs are your key contact in discussing your NDIS plan and answering any questions you may have and they will help you evaluate your current supports during your annual plan reviews.

NDIA managed areas

For many people entering the NDIS, the LAC will be their main point of contact for the NDIS. However, some regional and remote areas are not serviced by a LAC partner. In that case the NDIA will work with you directly to connect you to supports in your area.

Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 to find out more.

Early Childhood Early Intervention Partners

The Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) program is supporting young children who have a disability or developmental delay.

To deliver the best outcomes for children up to the age of six the NDIA has teamed up with early childhood partners in the community to provide advice, assistance and support.

You can find contact details of LAC and ECEI partners in your State or Territory in the ‘Resources’ section starting on page 212.

Early intervention under NDIS

Early intervention means addressing your child’s development, health and support needs as soon as possible. This could be through therapy, counselling, family support or special education.

Providing quality early intervention for a child with a developmental delay or disability in their early years is critical to achieving the best outcomes and reducing the likelihood of them needing ongoing supports in the future. Effective early childhood intervention should be tailored to your child and family’s needs and include evidence-based strategies and supports.

Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the approach that supports children up to six years of age who have a disability or developmental delay, is called Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI).

Early childhood partners

To deliver the best outcomes for your child the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has teamed up with experienced early childhood partners in your local community, who will provide assistance, advice and access to early intervention support for your child.

If your child is unlikely to have a lifelong disability, or any long term effects are still unclear, the ECEI partner will link your family with mainstream supports and work with them over the short to medium-term.

They might also provide initial supports if the child needs them and monitor progress.

If your child has a lifelong disability, the ECEI partner will work with you to develop an NDIS plan that best suits your child’s needs and can help you to access services.

The ECEI process is about giving families information, time to understand what supports are available to them and how the system works, rather than sending them straight to service providers or mainstream supports.

During the ECEI process, families can build their capacity and develop the skills to make informed decisions throughout their child’s life.

When your child turns seven years old they will be re-assessed to either move to an individualised funded plan under the NDIS where a formal diagnosis is required, or potentially transition to other Government support services.

Accessing support

To access early intervention supports under the NDIS for children aged 0-6 years you don’t need a formal diagnosis of disability. If you have concerns about your child’s behaviour or development you can call the NDIS hotline on 1800 800 110 and request access to NDIS support.

You can also be referred by your GP, family nurse, paediatrician or child care educator. You will find information and a list of providers who offer early intervention in the Therapists and Specialists section starting on page 101

More information about ECEI partners in Central & Western Australia can be found in the ‘Resources’ section starting on page 212.

Effective early childhood intervention should be tailored to your child and family’s needs

The early childhood journey

Every child is unique, so each early childhood journey will be different. However, there are some common steps in the process of accessing ECEI supports.

All children will go through steps one and two, but the journey from there will depend on the individual:

1. Connect with an early childhood partner –Through the NDIA, your own request or the referral of your GP or Paediatrician.

2. Get some helpful information – Your ECEI partner will help you understand your child’s support needs and provide you with guidance and information that will help you make decisions about the right supports and services for your child.

3. Discuss support needs – Your ECEI partner will work with you to set goals for your child.

4. Referral to supports and services – Your ECEI partner will connect you to supports and services available in your local community, or provide some initial early intervention supports themselves if the child needs it.

5. Accessing the NDIS – If it is evident your child would be best supported with an NDIS plan, your ECEI partner will work with you to request NDIS access and develop a plan.

6. Monitor progress – Your early childhood partner and service providers will work with you to monitor your child’s progress against the goals you’ve set.

•

•

•

•

•

•

What to look for in early intervention supports

If you are seeking early intervention support for your child you may want to consider the following key points:

⃝ Is the support family-centred?

Supports should actively involve and engage parents and other family members and be tailored to your family’s circumstances and priorities.

⃝ Is the support child-focused?

Supports should be delivered based on your child’s needs and goals and aim to develop specific skills.

⃝ Is it structured and supportive?

Supports should be delivered in an environment where you and your child feel comfortable and they should be highly structured, well organised, consistent and predictable.

⃝ Is there quality of therapy?

Supports and services should be based on solid evidence and research and delivered by practitioners with appropriate qualifications and experience.

⃝ Will there be regular assessments?

Supports should be regularly reviewed and progress is assessed against your child’s goals and milestones to measure progress.

⃝ Does it build knowledge and skills?

Supports and information provided should build the knowledge, skills and confidence of the family and important people in your child’s life.

Early intervention supports should:

Be child-focused

Be family-centred

Be structured and supportive

Focus on quality therapy

Include regular assessments

Build knowledge and skills

Planning meeting and your first plan

If you’re new to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), your first plan is your entry point and the start of your relationship with the Scheme.

Once you have been accepted into the NDIS but before you can begin receiving any services under the Scheme, you and/or your nominee will be contacted by a representative from the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) to have a planning conversation.

Your planning meeting will take place with a NDIA representative, such as a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or a NDIA Planner.

Preparing for a planning meeting

Every NDIS plan is individualised. To make sure you get the best plan possible that suits your needs and goals, it’s important to take the time to think about your life in the following areas:

⃝

Current supports

What formal supports are you currently receiving? Do you receive therapeutic, behavioural or work supports? If so, how often? If you need special equipment to go about your daily life, such as a wheelchair or communication devices, how often do you use it and will it need updating in the next year? Have you had any modifications made around your home, like ramps or rails and do they suit your needs?

You may choose to meet at the planner’s office location or they can come to your house. In some cases, if you are unable to meet face-toface, for example if you live in a rural or remote area, the planning meeting may take place over the phone or through a video call.

Also, take note of how you get to and from these activities. ⃝

Living arrangements

⃝

Informal

supports

What informal connections do you have and who is important in your life at the moment? Do you currently receive any informal support from your parents, family and friends?

⃝

Current activities

What regular activities do you attend during the week and what activities do you do occasionally? These could include community group activities, sports practice, art classes or volunteering. It’s important to list these no matter how big or small, and if you do them once a week or once a year.

Where do you live and who do you live with? Are you happy with your current living arrangements, would you like to explore other options or is your situation likely to change in the near future? For instance, you may be living with elderly parents who are your primary carers. Will they need extra assistance themselves or move into aged care in the future which means they can no longer care for you?

During a planning meeting your planner will consider your current supports, living arrangements and regular activities as well as your short and long-term goals

⃝ Short-term and long-term goals

The NDIS aims to help you increase your independence and achieve what you want in life. Think about things you would like to achieve in the short-term and maybe a few years from now.

Are the supports you are currently receiving helping you achieve these goals? Are there barriers that are stopping you from achieving them?

Writing down this information will help you be as prepared as possible for your meeting.

What to bring

To ensure the best outcome for you it is recommended that you bring the following to your planning meeting:

⃝ Someone to support you. You can bring anyone you’d like, this could be a parent, guardian, support person from a current service provider or a disability advocate. You don’t have to bring a support person, however, it can be helpful to have someone you know present, who can provide emotional support or fill in any gaps in information that is required.

⃝ Information you have prepared before your meeting regarding your short and long-term goals, current supports, relationships, living arrangements and activities.

⃝ Specialist reports and therapy assessments. If you have been assessed by a specialist make sure you bring any reports that include recommendations for certain therapies or supports. Make sure the reports include as much detail as possible about why you need these supports or therapies to assist your request for funding. Ideally the specialist report should include frequency of the recommended therapy and how the supports will help you work towards the short or long-term goals in your plan.

⃝ Quotes from service providers to support any aids or equipment you’re requesting in your plan. These aren’t always necessary but could give your planner an idea about the level of funding you need.

⃝

Documentation relating to your life, supports, health or disability. This could include personal documents about you or your family, letters from your doctor, day program rosters, information from your workplace about your needs, activity schedules or a behaviour support plan.

⃝ A list of questions you would like to ask the NDIS representative. If there is anything about the process you do not understand, this is your opportunity to ask. You can also ask the planner to read back their understanding of your goals and support needs to make sure you are both on the same page.

We have put together a checklist of useful information to prepare and collect for your planning meeting. You’ll find the checklist on pages 28-29.

Together, you and your planner will turn your goals into a set of actions and develop steps you need to take to achieve them

During your planning meeting

At the start of the planning meeting, your planner will introduce themselves and outline what you will talk about in the meeting.

They will ask lots of detailed questions about your current supports, living situation, activities and relationships, as well as your goals and aspirations. This is why it’s important to prepare this information before your meeting so you don’t forget anything.

Together you will turn your goals into a set of actions and develop steps you need to take to achieve them. Based on the information you provide the planner will work with you to develop your Participant Statement.

If you don’t know what goals you have for the future, that’s okay. Your first plan focuses on what you need right now and gives you some time to think about your longer-term needs and goals.

During the meeting you’ll discuss how the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will be able to tell if your plan is working and how to measure your progress. Your planner will go over the different plan management options with you and ask how you would like to manage your funding.

Finally, you will both agree on review dates for your plan. Most plans will be reviewed after 12 months but in some cases this may be sooner.

Once your planner has all the information they need, they will write a plan of supports for you. The plan will then be sent to the NDIA for approval. Your planner should tell you when you can expect to receive your plan and what will happen next.

Generally, once approved, you will receive a paper copy of your plan in the mail, along with a letter with an activation code to link your myGov account to the NDIS Portal to manage your supports.

Once your first plan is finalised (within seven days of receiving your plan) you will be contacted by a NDIA representative to discuss how to put it into action.

Keep in mind that whilst the planner will work with you in putting the best plan forward to support you in reaching your goals, the decision of what type of supports and how much funding you will receive in your actual plan lies with the NDIA.

There are professionals who can help you set your first NDIS plan, such as plan managers and support coordinators. You’ll find them in the Advisors directory section on page 157

Six things to bring to your planning meeting:

to support you

about your life, needs and personal circumstances

short and long-term goals

reports and therapy assessments

from service providers for aids and equipment

to ask your planner

Your first plan

Once you receive your plan, it is important to read through it to make sure you understand everything that is included.

Your plan has three main parts:

Part one contains some of your personal details, such as your name, NDIS number and other details about you.

Part two outlines your short-term and longterm goals.

Part three provides details about your supports and is broken into three sections describing the different support types.

⃝ Section 1 outlines your ‘informal supports’ that come from your family and friends.

⃝ Section 2 outlines your ‘formal supports’, such as those found in your community, or that are part of ‘mainstream’ systems, like a school, workplace or hospital.

⃝ Section 3 includes reasonable and necessary supports funded by the NDIS, the budget for NDIS funded supports and how supports will be paid for.

Any funding you receive from the State or Territory Governments stops on the same day your NDIS plan starts, so it’s important to let your service providers know when you receive your plan.

If you wish to continue receiving supports from your current service provider under the NDIS, you will be asked to complete a Service Agreement. Alternatively, if you wish to change or cancel services, then your service provider can help you do this.

If you are unhappy with the plan that has been presented to you by the NDIA, you can request a review within three months of receiving the plan.

Plan reviews

When reviewing your plan consider:

•

•

• What other supports are available

• Your goals and targets

Plan reviews are a normal part of your NDIS journey. A plan review is a chance to measure your progress against your goals, provide feedback on what supports are or aren’t working for you, explore and set new goals, or ask any questions.

It is expected that your first plan review will take place after your first 12 months in the Scheme. Towards the end of your first year as an NDIS participant, you will be contacted about a review of your first plan.

When reviewing your plan it’s important to: ⃝ Consider which supports are working best

Identify strengths, interests, opportunities and challenges

Consider current informal, mainstream, funded and community supports

Review goals and other targets.

Your review will be conducted by a NDIS representative. For children up to six years of age, most plan reviews will be conducted by the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) partner in person with the family. This could be in the ECEI partner’s office or in the family home. For participants aged seven to 65 years, plan reviews will be conducted by a LAC or a NDIS planner either face-to-face or over the phone or by video call.

You will also have the opportunity to talk to your representative about when to have your next plan review. Reviews can be scheduled up to two years apart depending on your personal circumstances.

If you know your situation may change in the near future, such as moving from school to work or a change in living arrangements, you could schedule a review sooner.

What is working and what isn't

Strengths, challenges, interests and opportunities

Your next plan will be developed based on your plan review conversation and formally approved by the NDIA. Your current supports will not be impacted during the plan review period, however, you will need to talk to your providers about your plan length to make sure your Service Agreements are up-to-date. Remember that any unspent funds in your plan will not roll over to your next plan. The new funding will replace your existing funding, so it’s important to make the most of your budgets.

The amounts of funding allocated to you for your Core, Capital and Capacity building supports may be different from your last plan. This will be based on your current needs, your progress in working towards your short and long-term goals and whether supports are still considered ‘reasonable and necessary’.

Participant-requested review

If your circumstances change, your plan no longer meets your needs, you are unhappy with the supports outlined in your plan, or would like to change your plan management type, you or your plan nominee can request a review with the NDIA at any time.

If your circumstances have changed, you can request a review by completing a ‘Change of circumstances’ form which can be found on the NDIS website or at your local NDIS office. Keep in mind, circumstances will need to have changed significantly from your last meeting for a review to take place and not all changes will require a review. Your current supports will continue during the review process.

Appeals

If you do not agree with a decision made by the NDIA, you can request an internal review by completing the ‘Application form review of decisions’ on the NDIS website.

Visit NDIS.gov.au or call the NDIA on 1800 800 110 to get help to complete the form over the phone.

A review request must be made within three months of receiving notice of a NDIA decision and you should explain why you think the decision was incorrect.

You can request a plan review before the scheduled time if:

• Your circumstances change

• Your needs are not being met

• You are unhappy with your current supports

• You'd like to change how your plan is managed

A review will be conducted by a NDIA staff member who was not involved in the original decision-making process. They will reconsider the facts, law and policy and determine if the original decision was accurate.

If you do not agree with the outcome of the internal review, you may make an application to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) requesting a further review.

You cannot ask the AAT to review a decision until the NDIA has reviewed it.

For information about applying for an AAT review, visit the AAT website – aat.gov.au – or call 1800 228 333. If you or the NDIA disagrees with a decision following the outcome of an external review by the AAT, an appeal can be made to the Federal Court of Australia, which is the final avenue of review.

NDIS Planning Meeting Checklist

Before your planning meeting

Familiarise yourself with the NDIS:

Go to pages 212-213 of this Guide for our handy list of definitions and often used terms

Information about the NDIS, your eligibility, developing your first plan and what to expect at your planning meeting can be found on pages 18-25 or visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au/information

Take the time to write down your:

Personal details

Current informal supports from family and friends

Current formal supports

Activities (regular and occasional) and how you get to and from them

Living arrangements

Short and long-term goals

How you would like to manage your funding – Go to page 38 to read more about the different options

Gather your supporting documents, such as assessment reports, medical results or day options. Make sure you keep copies of these documents. These documents may include: Information, reports and assessments of your disability Detailing ‘good’ days and ‘bad’ days, to ensure you highlight your daily challenges and receive the necessary supports you need NDIS Planning Workbook – available online at ndis.gov.au. The questions in this planning workbook can help you collect the information used to determine your needs and goals

Carers statement – Take some time to write a detailed list of your caring responsibilities such as personal care, domestic tasks, social participation, eating or drinking, as well as where further support is needed and the impact of your caring role, such as financial, employment, physical and mental health implications

Evidence of age and residency such as a copy of your passport or birth certificate

Bank account details to be used for your NDIS funds

Prepare a list of questions to ask during your meeting, such as:

When can I expect to receive my NDIS plan?

How can I get in contact with you after our meeting if I remember something else?

Who will help me understand my plan and answer any further questions I have?

Who can help me organise my supports and put my plan into action?

Can you repeat my answers back to me?

Am I able to review my plan before it is finalised?

It’s never too early to start planning! To help you make the most of your planning meeting we have put together a checklist of useful information before and during the meeting and what to look out for when you receive your plan.

During your planning meeting

Think of who you’d like to bring with you to your planning meeting.

It could be your carer, a parent, a friend or your partner

Write down your planner’s name and contact details

Take notes so you can refer to what has been discussed later on

Go through the information you collected and prepared

Ask about language or cultural support

Present any quotes for items/services you are requesting

Present specialist reports showing therapies or supports recommended

Advise which plan management option you wish to use

Remember to tell your planner why you need certain supports

Confirm when your next plan review will be held

Make sure all your questions are answered

Appoint a plan nominee if you wish. This is someone who can make decisions about your plan and supports on your behalf, if necessary

Remember to take your time and don’t be rushed. This meeting is to determine the supports you need so you want to make sure you get it right.

When you receive your plan

Check it to make sure you understand what is included in your plan

Await contact by an NDIS representative to discuss putting your plan into action

Notify your service providers and organise a time to sign Service Agreements

Link your myGov account to your NDIS participant portal, following the instructions sent by the NDIA. The NDIS participant portal allows you to view your plan and manage your services with your providers.

As you begin to receive support through your plan, think about how these supports are working for you and what else you may need to achieve your long-term goals to be prepared for your plan review in 12 months time.

What support can I get?

To decide what supports are reasonable and necessary for you, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) looks at your personal circumstances. It takes into account any informal supports you may have, such as help from family members or friends, as well as formal supports, like health and education services.

During your planning meeting, information is collected about what supports would best suit your circumstances, needs and goals. Together they will form your plan.

When the NDIA makes decisions about which supports would be reasonable and necessary for you, they refer to their operational guidelines that relate to each specific support.

To be considered reasonable and necessary, supports must:

Be related to the participant’s disability

Not include day-to-day living costs that are not related to a participant’s disability support needs

Represent value for money

Be likely to be effective and beneficial to the participant, and

Consider informal supports given to participants by families, carers, networks and the community.

Support packages

Funding in a NDIS plan is broken down into three different support packages.

Each package covers different areas of support and is broken down into a number of categories:

Core – for help with everyday living

Assistance with daily living

Transport

Assistance with social and community participation

Capital – what aids and equipment could help make life easier

Assistive technology

Home and vehicle modifications

Specialised disability accommodation

Capacity building – therapies and skills that improve independence

Support coordination

Improved living arrangements

Increased social and community participation

Finding and keeping a job

Improved relationships

Improved health and wellbeing

Improved daily living skills

Improved life choices

Improved learning

The budget that you end up with will include money for supports that align with the goals in your individual plan. You may be funded for supports that fall under all three support packages, or only one or two. It all depends on what your needs are.

For instance, an eight year old child on the autism spectrum is most likely to end up with more Capacity building funds to pay for different therapies.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will fund supports that are ‘reasonable and necessary’ and that help a participant reach their goals, participate in the community and increase their independence.

Whereas an adult with a physical disability may receive mainly funding for Core supports to help with daily living.

To make sure you have complete choice and control over your supports, there is flexibility when it comes to how you can spend the money within each package. However, you are not able to transfer money from one support group to another.

For example, if you receive funding for Core and Capacity building purposes, you cannot transfer money for in home care supports under the Core category to receive speech therapy which falls under Capacity building, and vice versa.

You will find a list of providers near you in the directory section starting on page 49.

Any funding you’re requesting to be included in your NDIS plan has to be related to your disability, give you some clear benefit and must be considered reasonable and necessary

What is Core support?

Your Core budget is made up of supports that will help you go about your daily life while working towards your goals and objectives. It is split into four categories and funding is flexible across all categories.

⃝

Assistance with daily living

Aims to enable you to live as autonomously as possible. Includes support in the following areas:

• Assistance with daily personal activities –such as showering, personal hygiene and moving around the house.

• Assistance with household tasks – such as cleaning and maintenance to help maintain your home environment.

• Preparation and delivery of meals – covers costs for a chosen service provider to prepare and deliver food on a weekly basis, taking your specific needs into account.

• Assistance in shared living arrangements / supported independent living – incorporates assistance with and/or supervising daily life tasks in a shared living environment.

Support can also include short-term accommodation assistance such as respite care.

Read more about respite on pages 56 and 132.

⃝ Transport

Support to travel around your community.

You can only get transport funding under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) if you are not able to use public transport, such as a bus or train, because of your disability.

The funding can pay for transport such as a community bus specifically for people with a disability or taxi and is paid fortnightly in advance. The funding will not pay for a carer or family member to drive you around to activities.

There are three levels of transport support:

Level 1 – up to $1,606 per year

You can get level 1 support if you do not work, study or attend a day program. You could also get level 1 support if you would like to join in activities or volunteer in your community.

Level 2 – up to $2,472 per year

You can get level 2 support if you work or study part time (less than 15 hours per week), go to a day program or participate in social activities.

Level 3 – up to $3,456 per year

You can get level 3 support if you work or study more than 15 hours a week or are currently looking for work.

⃝ Assistance with social and community participation

Support to help you to engage in social or recreational activities and become more involved in your community.

These could include a mix of community and centre-based activities such as art classes, sports, camps, library visits or day trips that include mentoring or peer support to strengthen your ability to participate independently.

What is Capital support?

The Capital support budget relates to investments such as assistive technology equipment, home or vehicle modifications, or specialist disability accommodation.

The funding for supports will include assessment, delivery, set-up, adjustment and maintenance costs as needed.

⃝

Assistive technology

These are aids or equipment supports that assist you to live independently or help your carer to make it easier to look after you.

It can include items for mobility, personal care, communication and recreational inclusion, such as wheelchairs, pressure mattresses, standing frames, bathing and toileting equipment, personal readers and vision equipment.

⃝

Consumables

Support to purchase assistive, personal care or safety items relating to your disability that you would use every day. These can include:

• Toilet and bathroom equipment

• Continence needs

• Home enteral nutrition (HEN) products

• Specialised clothing

How can I spend my Core funding?

Funding for Core supports is provided as a single lump sum payment which can be used flexibly across all four categories.

For example if you have a total Core budget of $14,000, you can choose to spread it across different categories and allocate $2,000 for consumables, $7,000 for daily activities, $1,000 for transport and $4,000 for social activities.

Core support funding is flexible but you may choose to set aside funds for a specific purpose. For instance, you may choose to selfmanage some of your Core funding to support additional transport needs and receive this as an automatic payment on an ad-hoc basis.

⃝ Vehicle modifications

Vehicle modifications include the installation of, or changes to, equipment in a vehicle to enable you to travel safely as a passenger or to drive. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will cover modifications that are considered reasonable and necessary such as installing hand controls if you can’t use your feet to operate pedals or installation of a hoist to help you in and out of a car. If you would like additional cosmetic or personalised features that are not essential, you will be expected to cover the extra expenses yourself.

Did you know art classes, sport, camps, library visits and day trips can be included in your plan to increase your social and community participation?

Capital support funding also covers the cost of assessments, delivery, set-up, adjustments and the cost of maintenance

⃝

Home modifications

Modifications to help you live safely and independently at home. These may include, adding hand rails in your bathroom, adding slip-resistant coating to your floor or installing ramps.

⃝ Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

SDA refers to accommodation for eligible participants who have an extreme functional impairment or very high support needs. SDA will provide funding towards the cost of the physical environment in which supports can be delivered, such as a purpose built apartment.

SDA funding does not cover personal support costs, which are assessed and funded separately in your NDIS plan.

How can I spend my Capital support funding?

Any funds for aids and/or equipment you’re requesting for inclusion in your NDIS plan have to be related to your disability, give you some

clear benefit and be considered reasonable and necessary.

Money for this support package will be allocated for specific items identified in your plan and has to be used to fund those items.

For example, if your plan includes money under Capital supports to pay for a wheelchair, you can’t then decide to spend that money on the installation of a grab rail in the bathroom instead.

It is best to bring a quote for each item you’re requesting money for to your planning meeting, to make sure you receive funding that meets your needs. You can choose your preferred supplier and there is no need to provide multiple quotes for each item or service you’re requesting.

What is Capacity building support?

This support package enables you to build on your independence skills.

There are nine Capacity building support categories. You will not automatically receive funding for all nine but only for those that suit your needs and circumstances. The goals outlined in your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan determine which categories you receive funding for.

⃝

Coordination of supports

Support to connect you with informal, mainstream and funded supports so you can get the most out of your NDIS plan and make sure your supports are being delivered as promised.

There are three different layers of ‘Coordination of supports’:

•

Support connection

Short-term assistance to strengthen your ability to connect with informal, mainstream and funded supports and maintain relationships with service providers.

•

Support coordination

Ongoing support to strengthen your ability to connect with supports. Includes resolving service delivery issues, regular monitoring of supports and crisis resolution.

Funding for capacity building support helps you to work on developing independence skills

• Specialist support coordination

A time-limited service that includes all activities outlined in support coordination, plus specialist supports for more complex and high-risk situations.

If you ask for ‘Coordination of supports’ during your planning meeting, the NDIA will determine what level of support is reasonable and necessary based on the information gathered during your meeting.

⃝ Improved living arrangements

Help with finding and applying for shared or independent accommodation and assistance with managing rental agreements and responsibilities. You may choose to use these funds to engage a service provider to help you search for suitable rental properties online and fill out application forms, for example.

⃝ Increased social and community participation

Short-term or ongoing support to strengthen your ability to manage your life independently and participate in your community. This can include support to participate in community access programs or group activities.

If your goals include improving your social skills and making new friends, you could get funding to attend a community camp or vacation group, where you can meet new people and build your relationship skills.

⃝ Finding and keeping a job

Support to find and maintain employment at all stages of your life. If you’re approved for funding in this category, you could find a service provider who specialises in employment for people with disability to help you update your resumé, apply for jobs in supported or open employment, help you prepare for a job interview or assist with school-towork transition.

⃝ Improved relationships

Involves assistance with the development of social skills and behaviour intervention supports. This could include funding for a behaviour support plan that aims to limit the likelihood of behaviours of concern developing or increasing.

⃝ Improved health and wellbeing

Physical wellbeing activities, such as personal training sessions and nutrition advice to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. These supports can be funded by the NDIS if health, physical and wellbeing difficulties are directly attributable to your disability. For example, if you’re eligible for this funding you may choose to find a nutritionist who can create an individualised healthy-eating meal plan.

⃝ Improved daily living

Covers assessment, therapy and/or training by a professional such as an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or registered nurse. Includes early childhood intervention.

Under Capacity building supports you could get funding to help you find a job or study opportunities, apply for suitable accommodation or learn a range of organisational and self-management skills

If you receive funding for this category you may choose to spend it on a combination of therapies that can help you work toward your goals. For example 30 hours a year for occupational therapy and speech therapy assessment and intervention.

⃝ Improved life choices

Can include plan management support, financial assistance and training to improve organisational and self-management skills. You could engage a service provider who offers plan management services to help you manage the money in your NDIS plan. They can pay providers, help develop Service Agreements, develop monthly statements and claim payments from the NDIA on your behalf.

⃝ Improved learning

Help to research and apply for study or training opportunities. If you receive funding in this category, you could engage a service provider to help with your transition from school to university, for example. This could include assistance with planning your timetable and budgeting for textbooks, or having a support worker come with you to class. Improved learning funding will only cover support costs, not course or tuition fees that anyone else without a disability would be expected to pay for.

How can I spend my Capacity building funding?

You can use your Capacity building funds to purchase any approved individual support within a specific category.

For instance, if you are allocated money under the ‘Improved daily living’ budget, you may initially decide to use 50% of the funding on an occupational therapist, 30% on a physiotherapist and 20% on a podiatrist. However, down the track you may decide to assign a larger percentage to podiatry services or change from occupational therapy to speech therapy. This flexibility allows you to identify what you believe would be the best Capacity building support to achieve your goal.

To help the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) decide how much money they will allocate for different categories under the

Capacity building package in your plan, keep in mind that any supports must be ‘reasonable and necessary’.

Any specialist reports you provide at your planning meeting to show you need certain therapies or supports should include as much information as possible to support your funding request. They should detail the types of services the specialist recommends as well as the frequency of services.

For instance, if you have a recommendation from a specialist that your child needs physiotherapy, make sure their report specifies how many sessions a year they think your child needs, the duration of each session and what goals these therapies will help achieve.

You won’t be able to move Capacity building funding from one category to another. This is because each category is aligned with a specific goal in your plan.

So, for example, you may have a total Capacity building budget of $5,000 made up of $3,000 for therapies under ‘Improved daily living’ and $2,000 for ‘Improved living arrangements’ to help you find suitable rental accommodation.

You then can’t decide to combine your funds to spend the total $5,000 on ‘Improved daily living’ because that would mean you are not working towards meeting your ‘Improved living arrangements’ goals.

Photo: Daryl Charles - supplied by Eurella Community Services, NSW

You can use your Capacity building funds to purchase any approved individual support within a specific category

Bella’s story - A sense of good tea and successful business ideas

At only 20 years of age, Bella Kobayashi has quickly become a successful business owner. Running a business has been a dream of Bella’s for a while now, as she values her independence and takes pride in her own work, and she is certainly not short on ideas of where the dream may take her.

The dream began more than a year ago, after Bella found a love for mixing teas through her work at a café in Mount Barker, South Australia.

“I finished school so I decided to start my own business Magnolia Tea House,” says Bella.

She chose tea as the base for her business because it “makes people feel special and happy”.

Spending plenty of time planning out her business and organising all of the different factors needed for the business to be successful, she has been

involved in every step of the process. From brainstorming the products she could sell, researching the food safety and legal requirements, to mixing the teas and putting together the packaging for her tea blends.

Becoming famous

Bella officially opened her business Magnolia Tea House in August. The launch went so well that it attracted media attention, including a feature on ABC Radio, and there was so much interest that the teas completely sold out.

Bella, who has Down syndrome, says the attention her business has received has made her feel “famous”.

With an astounding response from customers and fans scattered all over the world, even as far as Paris, France, Bella has some more big dreams for the future of her business.

Once Magnolia Tea House is operating steadily Bella hopes to open her own café.

But in the short term, she is already thinking of new flavours to add to her selection of three mixes on offer and has plans for other products too - such as a magnolia tea cup.

“I’m usually brainstorming and finding new ideas for improvement,” Bella says. “I write in my diary and keep doing it, keep writing, I’m really obsessed, I can’t stop, and it’s the same with my business.”

Bella is particularly on the lookout for an innovative way to make a watermelon herbal tea - even though her ingredient supplier says he’s never seen dried watermelon, it’s still on her list!

“I can set it up,” she says confidently.

The skill of blending tea

With Bella’s business thriving, tea production from her Personal Assistant (PA) Kathy’s home is in full swing.

Trips to the supplier’s warehouse, run by a member of Bella’s local community in Nairne, involves Bella tasting the different ingredients available and mixing the flavours together herself to come up with her own unique blend.

Her ‘Mostly Mint’ tea is a perfect example of her keen taste buds, as it mellows out the sharp minty flavour most people taste in minty tea with the inclusion of cacao nibs and wattle seed.

Other signature blends include her ‘Sleepy Tea’ made with lemonbalm,

“I finished school so I decided to start my own business Magnolia Tea House.”

spearmint, chamomile and rose, and her ‘Honey Bush Burst Tea’, which is made with a unique blend of honey bush tea leaves, dandelion root, ginger, licorice root and pepper - to “spice up life”.

Once a flavour mix is created, Bella writes down the amounts of each ingredient, orders them, and has the ingredients delivered to her PA’s house so that she can mix them herself.

She also orders the sticker and bags the teas are sold in and tastes each mix for quality control before it is packaged.

Local support

To get the business off the ground Bella was able to use funding from her National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan to get support from her PA, but the support from her community has been extraordinary. The community response to Bella’s passion for creating her

own business has involved everyone from disability support provider Access 4 U to the local Lions Club offering support.

The local Mount Barker Council has also been supportive of Bella, giving her some business advice, finding her a stall at the local farmer’s market and making sure she underwent a hygiene course so her product would meet health standards.

Bella passed the quiz completing the hygiene course with flying colours, managing a 99.8% result. With help from her PA, she is learning the business administration tasks next, such as balancing her business bank account.

A management group oversees the business, which

includes Bella’s mum Lyndal and two others, so Bella sends an email to the group at end of the day outlining what was done and the management group approves the money she has spent for the business.

While the management group adds another layer of professionalism, everyone involved knows that it is Bella who drives the business.

Kathy loves working with Bella and helping her achieve her dreams. She says Bella is the best boss she has ever had.

“She does drive the business, everybody seems to think that because she has Down syndrome she wouldn’t have any idea, but it is totally the opposite,” Kathy adds.

“Bella has many, many, many ideas and everything we do is because Bella wants to do it.”

To support Magnolia Tea House or follow Bella’s dream as it develops visit the business’ Facebook page.

Bella is involved with every step of the process in her business.

Photo: DPS

“I’m usually brainstorming and finding new ideas for improvement.”

“Bella has many, many, many ideas and everything we do is because Bella wants to do it.”

Managing your plan

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) budget.

The process of budgeting, keeping records and paying for supports outlined in your plan is called ‘plan management’. How a budget is managed determines how your supports and services are paid and in some cases what providers you can choose from to deliver the support services you need.

There are a few plan management options and there is no right or wrong way – you can choose which option best suits your situation.

The options include:

Agency (NDIA) managed

Plan managed

Self-managed

A combination of any of these

You can change your plan management option at any time, but you will need to let the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) know.

Agency Managed

If you choose to have your plan agency managed, this means that the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) handles all payments and administration for you. Choosing this option means you don’t have to pay invoices, claim reimbursements, report against your plan or resolve any billing issues, as this is all done by the NDIA. The NDIA will also keep appropriate records and receipts for supports provided.

If you choose to be agency managed, you can only use NDIS registered providers to

deliver your supports. Pricing for services by a registered provider are capped by the NDIA which means they can only charge a certain amount for their services.

Is it for me?

The agency managed option suits those who don’t have the time or ability to deal with financial or administrative tasks, and are happy to use only NDIS registered providers. The registered provider you choose claims the funds for their services directly through the NDIS portal by electronically billing the NDIS for the services delivered.

You can check your participant portal to see when the funds have been paid and to keep track of the funding you have left.

Pros

• Quick and easy

• No financial accountability

• No cost to you

• No need to keep track of paperwork or open a special bank account

• Using only registered providers means they cannot charge above NDIS price guidelines

Cons

• You can’t buy services from providers not registered with NDIS

• Limited flexibility

One of the biggest decisions you and your family will need to make is how to manage your

There’s no right or wrong way to manage your NDIS plan and you can change to a different option at any time

Plan Managed

A registered plan management provider can help you manage your NDIS funds if you don’t want the NDIA to manage your plan but don’t feel comfortable taking on the responsibility of self-management.

A plan manager acts as the middle man – the NDIS pays your plan management provider, who then sorts out the payment of your NDIS bills and handles the paperwork. Your plan manager will meet with you to understand your plan and identify what services you’d like them to manage.

If you would like to use a plan manager, you must request this at your planning meeting. Funds will be allocated under ‘Improved life choices’ to cover this service – this will not eat into any other support funds. Is it for me?

If you would like more flexibility and choice in providers but aren’t confident in handling budgets, then engaging a plan manager may suit you. Choosing a plan management provider means you have the option of using both NDIS

registered and unregistered providers to deliver your supports, while someone else manages your money and administration.

You won’t be able to see balances or remaining funds through the NDIS participant portal, however, you should be able to receive monthly reports from your plan manager.

Pros

• You don’t have to keep track of paperwork or open a special bank account

• Freedom to choose any service provider you like

• No personal financial accountability

• You have a partner to help you navigate the NDIS

• Advantages of self-management without the administrative burden Cons

• Another person to meet with regularly

• The billing process may take longer

• It is harder to keep track of balances and remaining funds yourself A list of plan managers can be found in the Advisors directory starting on page 157.

Self-Managed

Self-managing your NDIS plan means that you, a family member or trusted person takes care of the day-to-day organisation of your NDIS funds. The nominated person pays bills out of your NDIS budget, chooses how much to spend and organises paperwork and administration. The NDIA will decide whether the nominated person is suitable to self-manage.

This option gives you a lot of flexibility and control. If you are self-managing, you can choose any provider you like to deliver supports. This includes both NDIS registered providers and also those who are not registered with the NDIS.

With this flexibility comes a lot of responsibility. Self-management means keeping on top of your budgets while maintaining records and receipts for supports provided, claimed and paid.

You may want to consider setting up a NDISspecific bank account so the transactions are separated from your day-to-day expenses.

You will be in charge of requesting invoices from service providers and processing payments through the NDIS participant portal. Self-managed participants can also choose to pay a service provider upfront and have the money deposited into the nominated NDIS bank account.

It is important to keep in mind that the funding amount included in your plan will be based on NDIA pricing. This means that the money you receive to pay, for example, for a speech therapy session will be capped according to NDIA pricing.

Self-managing your plan gives you complete control over your NDIS supports

Some providers that are not registered with the NDIA may charge more than this amount per session than if you were to use a registered provider who can only charge NDIS prices.

Read more about NDIS pricing on page 41.

Is it for me?

Choosing to self-manage your plan means taking on the role of financial manager, support advocate, administrator and director. If you have the capacity and resources to fill these roles, and want complete control of your or your loved one’s NDIS plan, then self-management could suit you.

If you would like to self-manage, but feel you are lacking in certain skill areas or would like extra assistance, you may be able to receive funding from the NDIS for this. You may be allocated Capacity building funds as part of your plan that help you develop skills to increase your ability to self-manage or receive help to be able to self-manage.

For example, if you are happy to self-manage and would like to receive ongoing advice from a financial professional, then you can ask for this support to be included in your plan.

Pros

• Flexibility

• Total choice and control

• Freedom to choose any provider

• Opportunity to develop or refine financial, organisational and admin skills

• Can apply for assistance through NDIS Capacity building funds

Cons

• T ime consuming

• A lot of responsibility

• Need to meet with lots of people and providers

• Need to resolve billing issues yourself

• Might need to pay for services upfront and wait for reimbursement

A combination

You may choose to combine different plan management options if you want the NDIA or a plan manager to manage parts of your budget, but want to stay in control over certain services. For example, perhaps you don’t want to deal with all the financial or administrative tasks that come with managing your child’s plan yourself and you have chosen mostly registered providers, so you are happy for the NDIA to manage most of your child’s funds. However, the speech therapist your child has been seeing for four years isn’t a registered NDIS provider and you would like to keep seeing them. You can choose to self-manage that component of your child’s plan.

How does it work?

• Meet with the NDIA and tell them which services you’d like them to manage and which you’d prefer to manage yourself

• You arrange services, organise invoices and keep appropriate records for the support(s) you’ve chosen to manage

• You report to the NDIA on the amount spent on the self-managed supports, while they manage the budgets you’ve allocated to them

Pros

• Flexibility

• More choice and control

• Freedom to choose any provider

Cons

• Can be time consuming

• Might need to pay costs upfront and wait for reimbursement

• Might need to refine your budgeting, organisational or administrative skills

Whichever option you choose, it’s important to make sure you are comfortable with the way your plan is managed. There is no right or wrong way and you can choose to change to a different option at any time.

You can choose a combination of plan management options where you are in control of some supports and others are being managed by the NDIA or a registered plan manager

NDIS pricing

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding to participants to purchase a range of reasonable and necessary supports to increase independence as well as social and economic participation.

This funding is provided through individual participant budgets and while participants are free to choose who they would like to deliver services and support to them, the amount the NDIA pays for these supports is set in the NDIS price guide.

How much do supports cost under the NDIS?

The NDIS price guide lists costs for all support areas under the NDIS. These prices, unless stated otherwise, are the maximum amount NDIS registered providers can charge for that service.

A key element of NDIS is that funded supports must represent value for money. As the number of participants and providers changes each year, competition may change and this could drive prices up or down. The NDIS price guide should ensure that all costs are kept at a reasonable level.

The price guide breaks down each support item with a description, reference number, whether a quote is required, the price and if it’s charged hourly, daily or weekly.

For example, for assistance with personal domestic activities such as getting help with basic house or garden maintenance, the NDIS will pay up to $50.87 per hour. For support connection, to help you coordinate your supports from a range of sources, or to engage services to help you find suitable accommodation, NDIS will pay up to $70.87 per hour.

The NDIA will update prices at least once a year, usually by 1 July, taking into account market trends, changes in costs and wage rates. Changes will be published on ndis.gov.au.

Registered vs unregistered providers

Service providers are businesses or individuals who provide a service that relates to the goals outlined in a NDIS plan. The NDIA asks service providers to register with the NDIS, however, not all providers do.

To register, providers must meet certain criteria and follow specific rules, regulations and agreements when providing services.

NDIS registration can be a lengthy and costly process, and because of this some businesses choose to stay unregistered.

Others may choose not to register so they won’t be limited by the NDIS price guide when they charge for their services.

Don’t be put off by the term ‘unregistered’ when it comes to choosing supports. Unregistered providers can still provide NDISfunded supports, and many have the necessary skills and resources to provide high-quality services to people with disability.

A key element of the NDIS is that funded supports must represent ‘value for money’

The main differences between registered and unregistered providers are:

⃝

Unregistered providers do not need to follow the price caps outlined in the NDIS price guide and can charge whatever they like, whereas registered providers cannot charge over the price limit.

⃝ Registered providers claim their invoices directly through the NDIS, while unregistered providers will send their invoices to you, or whoever is managing your plan, to process through the NDIS portal.

You can choose the type of providers you use, depending on how you manage your plan. If you are agency managed and can only choose registered providers, it’s good to know they’ve

all been through the registration process and meet NDIA guidelines. However, choosing from a set list of providers can be restrictive.

For example, if you need an occupational therapist but there are none registered in your area, you might need to travel a long way to access this support. Or, the local registered occupational therapist might be at capacity and not currently taking on new clients.

If you are self-managed or plan managed, you have the freedom of choosing any provider you want. However, you may pay more for supports with an unregistered provider as they aren’t bound by the NDIS price guide.

Read more about the different management options on pages 38-40.

Service Agreements

When you have found a provider to deliver your NDIS supports, you will need to enter into a written agreement with your provider. This is called a Service Agreement.

Service Agreements should be simple and set out how and when your supports will be delivered and how much they will cost.

Service Agreements are different from your NDIS plan. Your plan lists your NDIS supports and the long and short-term goals you have.

A Service Agreement is about delivering these supports to work on achieving those goals.

Your provider may work with you to develop a care or service plan that is based on your needs and the goals set out in your NDIS plan.

When talking to your provider about your Service Agreement, you can bring a copy of your NDIS plan and attach it to the document. This will help your provider deliver the right supports in the right way for your personal circumstances and make sure the services work towards meeting your individual goals.

Things you can put in your Service Agreement include: ⃝ The type of support provided under the Service Agreement

The cost of those supports

How, when and where you would like your supports to be provided ⃝ How long you need the supports to be provided

When and how your Service Agreement will be reviewed

How any problems or issues that may arise will be dealt with

Your responsibilities under the Service Agreement – such as letting your provider know if you can’t make an appointment

Your provider’s responsibilities under the Service Agreement – such as working with you to deliver your supports in the right way ⃝

How you or your provider may change or end the Service Agreement and if there are any charges if you decide to end the agreement.

If you are self-managed or plan managed you have the freedom of choosing any provider you want

A Service Agreement is about delivering supports to work on achieving any goals you have

Financial support

The Government has a range of other financial assistance schemes to support people with disability, for example to cover the cost of living including rent or mortgage repayments, groceries, utilities, and other costs.

Whilst the NDIS supports the funding of support services for eligible participants, if you have a disability that leaves you unable to work or are actively looking for work, you may be able to receive additional financial support.

Disability Support Pension

The Disability Support Pension (DSP) is financial help for people with a permanent physical, intellectual or psychosocial disability that prevents them from working. To be eligible for the DSP you must meet a number of non-medical and medical rules.

For example whether you are permanently blind, you have a terminal illness with an average life expectancy of less than two years, you have an intellectual disability with an IQ of less than 70 or you receive a Department of Veterans’ Affairs special rate disability pension.

It is important to note not everyone with disability or a medical condition is eligible for the DSP. If you can’t get DSP, you may be able to get other payments. You can still access services under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) if you’re claiming DSP.

To find out if you are eligible and how to apply visit the Services Australia website: servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/ centrelink/disability-support-pension

JobSeeker Payment

If you are unemployed but actively looking for work you may be able to receive the JobSeeker Payment. It also supports you if you have a longer-term condition and cannot get the DSP.

This financial support is available to people who are at least 22 years old but under 65 years, looking for paid work, under the income and assets test limits and prepared to meet mutual obligation requirements.

You will no longer receive payments if you stop looking for work without a good reason and you may not receive payments until you attend your first appointment with an Employment Services Provider.

To find out if you are eligible for JobSeeker and how to apply visit the Services Australia website: servicesaustralia.gov.au/jobseeker-payment

Youth Disability Supplement

If you’re under 21 years old and on the Disability Support Pension, you may also be eligible for extra assistance through the Youth Disability Supplement. You may also receive the supplement if you’re under 22 and get Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY.

You don’t need to apply for Youth Disability Supplement but you’ll need to tell Services Australia if you don’t want to get it. To find out more visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/ youth-disability-supplement

Companion Card

If you have a permanent or severe disability and you need help to go to events and venues or access public transport, you may be eligible for a Companion Card.

This free card will allow you to bring a partner, friend or carer, to join you for free and help you with your mobility, communication, self-care or use of aids or equipment.

For more information and how to apply visit companioncard.gov.au or call 08 8948 5400 in Northern Territory, 1800 667 110 if you’re in South Australia or 1800 617 337 in Western Australia.

If you have a disability that leaves you unable to work or are actively looking for work, you may be able to receive financial support

Education

In Australia, every child has the right to the same educational opportunities. People with disability may have barriers in learning, development and cognitive function, however, there are a number of education supports that can help your child reach their full potential.

Schooling options

In some schools, children with disability are in regular classes, whereas in others, children with disability have some extra support lessons together in a group.

There are also Government funded special support school programs, complete with their own staff and facilities within mainstream schools.

Independent schools are non-Government institutions that support students with disability without Government funding.

Specialist schools for children with disability can offer specific support for children with intellectual disability, physical disability, hearing impairments, vision impairments and autism spectrum disorder. The curriculum at these schools is based on the Australian curriculum but can be tailored to suit individual student needs.

Class sizes may also be smaller. To enrol your child at a specialist school, he/she must meet the school’s diagnosis criteria and live within the enrolment zone.

Home schooling can provide your child with a safe, supportive and flexible environment that suits their academic or behavioural needs. If you choose to home school, you need to register with your State or Territory education department.

For children who can’t go to school or participate in regular classes due to chronic illness, living remotely or experiencing difficulty at school, education programs are often run online with printed material and visual aids sent to your child.

To enrol in these distance education programs you must meet the enrolment requirements.

Dual enrolment is an option for parents who believe their child may benefit by splitting up their week between two schools.

If your child has medical, personal care or behavioural support needs, the school can assist your child in making them feel included and comfortable in the school environment.

Education supports

The Department of Education endeavours to support the education of students with disability through funding, special needs support, resources and teaching materials.

The Department plays an important role in delivering Australia’s education and is responsible for national policies and programs. They also advocate for special needs education, manage complaints and educationbased investigations.

Individual State and Territory Governments have programs and resources available to provide extra support for students with disability.

To learn what educational support is available for your child, contact the Department of Education in your State or Territory.

Call 08 8999 5659 or visit education.nt.gov.au to contact the Northern Territory Department of Education. The South Australian Department for Education can be contacted on 1800 088 158 or visit education.sa.gov.au. The Western Australian Department of Education can be contacted on 08 9264 4111 or online at education.wa.edu.au.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may fund supports to enable your child to attend school and enhance their educational journey. These supports could include transport to and from school, mobility aids and assistance with transitioning from primary to secondary school.

A range of support options is available to assist your child throughout their schooling years, with most schools catering for students with disability

Employment and volunteering options

A key goal of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is to promote employment of people with disability. Financial independence, improved health and wellbeing, building social networks and finding a sense of purpose are just some of the benefits of having a paid or unpaid job.

Building capacity and economic participation through employing people with disability also reduces the need for full-time support and day programs, giving family members and carers more time to participate in the community or work in their own job.

If you have a disability and want to work, there are a few avenues you can take.

Disability Employment Services

Disability Employment Services (DES) can help you find and maintain work in a mainstream environment, known as open employment. DES is not funded under the NDIS but by the Department of Social Services.

DES can help with the preparation for work through training in specific job skills, allied health services to help improve work capacity, job search support, resumé development, interview skills and work place modifications. To find out more call JobAccess on 1800 464 800 or visit jobaccess.gov.au.

Australian Disability Enterprises

ADEs are companies that employ people with disability in a supported working environment. ADEs typically support people with disability who may struggle to find or keep a job in a mainstream environment.

Supported employment at an ADE is funded by the NDIS under the support category ‘Finding and keeping a job’.

ADEs can help you to gain training and experience to either transition into open employment or continue in supported employment if you prefer.

Disability Enterprises currently employ more than 20,000 Australians with varying degrees of disability across 600 locations nationwide.

ADEs offer a wide range of roles within a number of industries including manufacturing, packaging, administration, horticulture, cleaning and warehousing, printing and hospitality.

ADEs also adjust daily tasks, jobs and workplace settings to suit individual abilities, interests and skills. Many also offer on-the-job training and development in areas such as work health and safety, behaviour management, public transport, literacy and numeracy and money management.

Visit buyability.org.au online or call 1300 043 517 to find supported employment opportunities near you.

School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES)

If you’re in your final year of school and would like a job when you leave, you could access NDIS funding for School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES). This support option offers individualised assistance for up to two years after finishing Year 12 to help build skills and confidence to transition from school to work.

Disability Employment Services can help you find and maintain work in a mainstream environment

Photo: Daryl Charles - supplied by Eurella Community Services, NSW

SLES is an individualised approach to funding employment supports like work experience in open or supported employment, travel training, job-readiness training such as resumé writing and job searching, money handling and how to communicate with others in the workplace.

Any NDIS-registered provider can deliver SLES supports. Your chosen SLES provider will work with you to identify supports which will help you achieve your individual employment goals.

Volunteering

Volunteering is another great way to meet new people, learn new skills , build your confidence before transitioning into employment and become involved with your community in a fun and supportive way.

Volunteering is freely giving your time to help another person, organisation, group or cause and can also help build your confidence before transitioning into employment.

Volunteering has been linked to increased health and wellbeing and improved self- esteem, while also reducing stress, loneliness and depression.

There are many places you could volunteer, including animal welfare organisations like the RSPCA, local thrift shops, environmental conservation organisations, Meals on Wheels and Australian Red Cross.

To find volunteering opportunities in your community, head to Volunteering Australia’s website volunteeringaustralia.org.

If you would like to volunteer in your community but feel you need some assistance, like a support worker to go with you, you can apply for NDIS Core funding under ‘Assistance with social and community participation’.

To find providers who offer employment support turn to the Advisors section starting on page 157.

Accessible transport

Access to transport is critical for people with disability in enabling them to participate in work, study, leisure and social activities. For people with limited audio and visual capabilities, public transport can present some challenges.

People with a cognitive disability may also need additional travel supports to aid in perception, comprehension, learning, memory and concentration.

There is a range of subsidies, permits and allowances available to make getting around a bit easier if you have a disability.

If you are still able to operate a car you may be eligible for the use of a disability parking permit. You may be able to get a permit if your impairment severely restricts your speed of movement, your ability to use public transport and you have a permanent physical impairment or a temporary impairment likely to last for longer than six months.

To get a disability parking permit you must fill out an application form, ask a medical

practitioner to complete and sign the relevant sections and submit the form to your local council.

Public transport

The majority of public transport services across Australia, including buses, trains, trams and ferries, are accessible for people with disability or mobility issues.

Buses may have low floors and ramp systems to allow people with disability to safely enter and exit the vehicle.

There usually are allocated spaces for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Bus stations and stops are also fitted with tactile paving if you have a vision impairment and hearing augmentation if you have a hearing impairment.

Volunteering has been linked to increased health and wellbeing as well as improved self-esteem

Transport alternatives

If you can’t use public transport there are a number of other ways to travel around your city and you may be able to receive assistance for these through the NDIS.

Taxis are a private and comfortable transport method for people who can’t easily access public transport. Drivers can help you enter and exit the vehicle if you need assistance.

You may be eligible for subsidised taxi fares through State or Territory based taxi subsidy initiatives.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles are purposebuilt vehicles complete with hydraulic lifts to secure passengers with wheelchairs and scooters safely into the taxi.

Community buses are another great option for people with disability. They are run through councils and community centres with the help of friendly volunteers. Call your local council to find out about community transport in your area.

Supporting your rights

When a problem arises it can be hard to speak up and take control of how you want to live your life. This can be particularly difficult if the concerns you have are about care or services that you are relying on for meeting your most basic needs.

Disability advocates can act as a voice for people with disability by campaigning for social change, equal rights and opportunity. This can include speaking, acting or writing on behalf of the interests of a person or group in order to protect, promote and defend their welfare or justice.

An advocate can enable and support you by helping you understand your rights, listening to your concerns and discussing your options for raising that concern. They can assist with negotiating changes to your plan, give advice and support when dealing with service providers and help you overcome any barriers that may impact on your ability to participate in

community.

The Australian Government’s National Disability Advocacy Program (NDAP) is a program that ensures people with disability enjoy and exercise their human rights within their community.

The program enables access to local disability advocacy support and helps smooth out issues between people with disability and their service providers or the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

To find a Government funded disability advocacy agency near you, search your local area on the Department of Social Services’ Disability Advocacy Finder, visit disabilityadvocacyfinder.dss.gov.au or email disabilityadvocacy@dss.gov.au

Community transport options may provide free or low cost transport services to people with disability

There may be times when you don’t feel listened to or feel like decisions are being made for you without any consideration of your thoughts, feelings or opinion. This is where disability advocates can play a vital role.

your

An advocate can enable and support you by helping you understand your rights, listening to your concerns and discussing your options for raising those concerns

Carer support

Families and carers of people with disability provide everyday help and support that cannot be beaten! Roughly 2.7 million Australians look after someone with disability, mental illness, a medical condition or the elderly.

Being a carer can have a huge impact on your life and physical and mental wellbeing – as well as being isolating at times. There are some great support options available to assist you if and when the role of a carer becomes too much.

The Government initiative Carer Gateway is an Australia-wide network that connects carers with support services around the country.

Call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 or visit CarerGateway.gov.au to connect with local support and services to help you with your caring role.

Respite

Sometimes you need to take a break from your carer role to refresh, attend appointments or need someone to take over when you are unable to care due to illness or time away.

Carer Gateway can help with access to information and other supports appropriate to your needs, while also providing options for short-term and emergency respite.

Counselling services

Professional counselling is held in individual, couple or family sessions. Some counsellors offer their services over the phone, by email or through webcam. It is a great way to talk to someone about how you are feeling and learn some strategies to help you cope in a private and trusted environment.

Attending a counselling or therapy group is a good way to share your experiences and feelings with like-minded people, build a support network and make some new friends.

Carer support groups

Community run carer support groups can offer a safe and understanding environment to talk about your caring role. These groups can be organised around caring for someone with a particular disability or condition and offer the support and advice of other carers who are or have experienced situations similar to

yours. There are also support groups available for Indigenous Australians or Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) carers.

Carer support groups are completely confidential, can provide practical and emotional support and also help you to meet others in a similar situation, and get involved in leisure activities or relaxing outings.

Support lines

There are a number of support lines and websites which assist carers by offering free or subsidised counselling.

Some helpful support lines include:

⃝ Carers Australia – 1800 242 636 – runs support programs for carers with qualified counsellors

⃝ Relationships Australia – 1300 364 277 –offers a range of services, such as counselling and mediation, by phone, online and face-to-face

⃝ Lifeline – 13 11 14 – offers 24/7 crisis support and phone counselling

Financial support

You may be eligible for income support through Carer Payment or Carer Allowance from Centrelink if you and the person you are caring for meet the requirements. Call 13 27 17 Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm or check online at servicesaustralia.gov.au to see if you are eligible for financial support as a carer.

There are a number of support options available to assist you if the role of a carer becomes too much

In Home & Community Support

Support is available to help you live your life as independently as possible by making sure that your living arrangements and the help you get at home meets your needs.

These supports may include helping you find affordable, appropriate and secure housing, or assist you with transport and day-to-day activities. It will also ensure you can stay connected and part of your local community.

Depending on your needs, you may be able to get assistance with personal care or have someone come to your house and help you with cooking or cleaning. You may be able to learn new skills through supports so you can do these jobs yourself.

If you are being cared for by a family member or a carer, another form of support you may be able to access is respite.

About In Home & Community Support In Home & Community

This offers you and the person helping to care for you some time away from your home, or it can help if your carer needs a holiday.

Case Study

Jimmy has been given the support he needed to turn his life around - and all it took was a few dedicated support workers to help him set up the life he wanted to lead.

Jimmy receives support twice a week to access his community, plan and purchase his grocery shopping, pay his bills and assist him to maintain a safe home environment.

Recently, Community Support’s Client Services Coordinator, Chantelle, and support coordinator, Christine, worked together to help Jimmy access much needed funds to buy items like clothes, shoes and bedding to ensure he was safe for winter.

Support worker, David, took Jimmy shopping to select the items he needed and Chantelle then picked these up and personally delivered them to Jimmy. “I keep waiting to wake up and it be a dream, I nearly fell down when I was told it was happening,” Jimmy says.

A very humble man, Jimmy enjoys pastimes such as listening to music, drawing or reading body art magazines to inspire his own art. He loves to share his creations with his support workers and says he is very thankful for their help and companionship.

Jimmy’s support coordinator also assists him to maximise his independence and plan any supports he receives week to week, as well as helping to advocate for other mainstream or Government services he might need.

Jimmy says he can’t thank his support workers and community network enough after the difference they have made in his life.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you, from the bottom of my heart to everyone who helped make this possible,” he says.

With all his supports in order and the help he needs for everyday living, Jimmy is able to spend more time enjoying his favourite activities. To find out more about the services Community Support can provide call 08 8429 1200, visit csisa.org.au or email hello@csisa.org.au.

Case study provided by Community Support

Jimmy and support worker David with his shopping.

Photos: Supplied

In Home & Community Support

Many sport and recreational programs are targeted specifically at people living with disability or you may be able to get assistance to participate in mainstream social and community activities.

As well as helping with your wellbeing, social and community activities may help you achieve goals in your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan.

On the following pages we explain what In Home & Community Support options there are. The In Home & Community Support directory starting on page 62 lists providers who deliver services in Central and Western Australia.

Child care

For many parents finding the right child care for their child is a struggle at the best of times. For parents of a child with a disability, this is even more so.

When contacting child care providers it is important to discuss your child’s needs and ask questions including their experience in caring for children with disability.

Child care can be expensive and the Government may help cover some of the costs. To get an estimate of what you may be entitled to, use the Services Australia Payment and Service finder on servicesaustralia.gov.au or call 13 61 50.

Community access and inclusion

Being a contributing and valued member of our community is a desire for many of us. We can participate through employment, education, sports and recreational activities and travel.

A number of supports are available to help you gain or regain your confidence and independence and understand the steps you need to take to achieve your goals within your community.

From programs designed to support you on your journey to employment, to volunteering opportunities and activities where you can work with other members of the community and meet new people. These supports can assist you in discovering your passions and help you become productive and feel valued.

Speak to your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) about the supports you can access through your NDIS plan to help you to contribute within your community.

Many community venues and events aim to include and provide accessibility to people with disability so you can participate, enjoy a range of activities and become a valuable member of your community.

Some of the ways this happens is through access to public transport services, ramps and lifts within venues, Auslan interpreters, closed captioning, audio descriptions and other modifications for people with disability.

You may notice accessible and inclusive facilities within your community. These include gardens and parks, recreational facilities such as swimming pool hoists at swimming centres, playground facilities with the use of wheelchair swing chairs, as well as accessible toilets, bridges, ramps and footpaths.

If you need help with accessing your community, a list of providers who can assist can be found within the directory starting on page 62.

Domestic assistance

If you are living in your own home, it is possible that at some stage you may require some assistance to make life easier, or assistance to complete everyday activities that will enable you to continue living independently.

The supports available will depend on your goals, aspirations, needs and informal supports and can be delivered by Government departments and agencies or by non-Government service providers.

Some of the most commonly accessed types of support and assistance may include cleaning, personal care, nursing care, meal preparation and delivery, home and garden maintenance and more.

Looking for domestic assistance? Go to page 62 to find providers in the In Home & Community Support directory.

Home maintenance and gardening

The NDIS can fund services to assist with cleaning, as well as minor house and garden maintenance. They can also fund training, aids and equipment to help you perform these tasks independently.

A trusted support worker can visit you in your home and complete tasks such as washing and drying your clothes and linen, vacuuming, dusting and general household cleaning.

Your garden can be kept well-manicured by lawn mowing, pruning, fertilising, sweeping and raking up leaves and cleaning gutters.

State, Territory and local Governments also offer programs that help with cleaning, home maintenance and gardening, although these usually come at a cost.

Look in the In Home & Community Support directory starting on page 62 for help with your home and garden.

Life skills

There are a number of supports available to assist and teach you life skills to help you live independently.

This support can range anywhere from a few hours a week, to 24 hours a day and can help develop skills and build your confidence with things like health and wellbeing, household tasks, travel and connecting with other people and the community.

Some important life skills that you can get support for include meal preparation, independent living, community participation and literacy and numeracy skills.

To become as independent as possible and fulfil your potential speak to your carer or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) about life skills support under the NDIS.

Turn to page 62 for a list of providers who can help you develop life skills.

Multicultural support

If you identify as Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) and need some support, there are multicultural services available to meet your needs.

You may find it difficult to seek out services that would suit you, which is where multicultural support services can assist. A multicultural support worker that understands your cultural background and speaks your language can talk to you about the types of support that are available that match your cultural diversity. They will work alongside your family, community and health professionals to ensure you feel comfortable and get the help you need.

Read more about cultural diversity on DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au.

Home & Community Support

Learning about meaningful relationships changed Lenny’s life

But Lenny’s life before he discovered fishing was very different.

Living with his mother and his father, who has dementia, Lenny has some complex relationships to deal with and has struggled making connections.

He used to meet people through dating apps, which had not been giving him the kind of connection he was looking for. He did meet a girl through a mutual friend, and was spending lots of time with her playing video games online, as well as meeting up in person.

That was when he came across First Step Solutions, a provider of educational programs for building social connections.

Lenny says he was curious to try out the provider’s six-week Date-Ability program and was surprised it “opened [his] eyes up as well, in a way that has made a big difference”.

As a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant, Lenny was able to go with his support worker to the sessions.

“First Step Solutions actually was quite an interesting course, it was very intriguing and very friendly, it opened a lot of doors up in my head, like ‘oh ok I shouldn’t have said that, or I shouldn’t have done that, or I should have said it that way’,” he says.

Deeper relationships

Lenny found he connected on a deeper level with some of the other course participants, because they understood what each other had been through, which helped him to learn about stronger relationships.

“Since I started with First Step Solutions it’s been a journey realising I’m definitely not alone in the world,” he says.

The course and ongoing one-on-one relationship counselling have led to Lenny deleting all the dating apps from his phone.

He is feeling more in control and focusing on his “side of life” by making sure he spends time fishing, to keep his calm frame of mind going.

Lenny also has a very close relationship with his mother Wendy, and they have bonded over his choices of flattering outfits for her to wear to church or out to a nice dinner.

He says she was initially taken aback when going shopping with him, because he wasn’t afraid to tell her when he thought the clothes she was trying on didn’t look nice.

“I’m a very blunt and truthful person, I don’t really tell lies and tell someone they look nice or pretty when truthfully they don’t to me,” he explains.

But now, Lenny gives his mother more detail about what he means - that the blue colour of the dress suits her, but the style isn’t flattering, for exampleand Wendy values his feedback.

The journey

What Lenny learned about relationships through First Step Solutions, combined with his newfound love of fishing, completely changed his life.

Participants

Photos: Supplied

Fishing is the passion that rules Lenny Maller’s life. It’s his favourite pastime, takes up several days during the week and makes him feel “peaceful, calm and collected”.

“I feel like I know where my brain is heading, know what I feel comfortable in.”

“I see a lot of good things in First Step. It’s good for special needs and good for mental thoughts as well,” Lenny says.

“It’s been a very nice road to be on actually. I feel like I know where my brain is heading and know what I feel comfortable in.”

The one-on-one relationship counselling which Lenny still attends each week is something he looks

forward to, as it’s a chance to talk about what’s going on in his life and what kinds of goals he wants to achieve.

Lenny has decided he wants to travel, and learn how to survive in the bush by cooking on hot coals, hunting food, camping and tracking wildlife.

“That’s always been me in a way, I’ve been outdoorsy, I’ve been intrigued by building stuff with my hands,” he says.

“Since I started this fishing journey in my life it’s been on my mind a lot more – I want to learn how to do woodwork, and how to carve and how to build stuff again.

“I just want to see if I can do it.”

First Step Solutions also offers financial literacy programs, the Mates Before Dates friendship program and the Cliq Connection online platform for NDIS participants.

“It’s been a journey realising I’m definitely not alone in the world.”

Date Ability offers a safe space for participants to learn about relationships. Photos: Supplied

In Home & Community Support

Meals and shopping

Cooking meals and heading to the shops for groceries or other purchases can prove difficult if you have a disability. To assist you, support workers can help you decide what items you need and then accompany you to go and buy them.

Some service providers can go to the supermarkets on your behalf and prepare nutritious meals according to your tastes and budget.

When it comes to food preparation you can have the support worker prepare your meal or you can help and learn some cooking skills yourself.

If you need help with meals and shopping, speak to your carer or Local Area Coordinator to see if a support service can be included in your NDIS plan.

A list of providers offering these services can be found in the directory starting on page 62.

Personal care

If you need some help in or outside your home, support is available to help you live as independently as possible. This can be funded under ‘Core supports’ in your NDIS plan.

Some examples of personal activities you may require help with include showering, dressing, toileting, eating, grooming and personal hygiene tasks, getting in and out of bed and mobility.

Support workers can join you in running errands in your community, such as grocery shopping, going to appointments or attending social events.

The people who help you with these ‘Core supports’ are professional, trustworthy and caring to make sure you feel comfortable and safe.

To find personal support options go to the directory listings starting on page 62.

Respite

Taking a break from your carer is beneficial to the both of you. Not only does it help maintain positive family and carer relationships, but it allows you the chance to meet new people and experience new things.

Respite options include centre-based day support, overnight or weekend support, in home support, community-based respite, host family stays and emergency respite.

⃝ Centre-based day support is when you spend the day at a specialised centre, where trained staff know and understand your needs.

⃝ Overnight or weekend facility-based support is a flexible respite option which may involve in home support or staying with a host family.

⃝ In home support is when a support worker will look after you in the comfort of your own home, giving your carer a break.

⃝ Community-based respite can include one-on-one or group outings, social and recreational activities, camps and school holiday programs.

⃝ Host family stays involve staying in the home of a volunteer or host family.

⃝ Emergency respite is an urgent request for respite, if your carer is suddenly unable to care for you due to illness or an emergency.

Helping all Australians to eat well

Developed by dietitians and prepared by chefs, Lite n’ Easy offers more than just a weight loss solution. We also offer delicious, nutritious meals, designed to promote healthy eating, well-being and a better quality of life for all Australians.

• Plenty of variety and choice with over 235 meals designed for weight loss or healthy convenience.

• Highest quality ingredients.

• Flexible options, home delivered.

• No lock in contracts or ongoing subscriptions.

For more information or to get a quote for NDIS approval, please call us on 13 15 12 or email your details including state, suburb and best contact number to NDIS@liteneasy.com.au

*Not available in the Northern Territory

• With NDIS funding support, participants only pay 30% of the cost of their meals. liteneasy.com.au

A perfect mix of independence and companionship

Sisters Sally and Kylie Lanyon share an exciting life in a Supported Independent Living Home. The pair moved to Adelaide from Mildura this year to have access to more services and a wider range of choices, and they love to go on outings about the city.

Sally, 44, and Kylie, 41, have always lived together and appreciate that their National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding can be used to help them stay together - in their own home with no other housemates.

Having each other in the house is the perfect mix of independence and companionship for the sisters.

“I like having the company, it helps with my confidence as well,” says Sally.

“I enjoy my sister’s company and the company of the regular staff that we have.”

Time to explore interests

Although they do enjoy spending time together, the sisters also have separate weekly routines so that they can still each focus for a while on their different interests.

Their supports are run by disability service provider Spry Support Services, which ensures that the sisters have regular workers that know their interests, needs and personalities.

On Mondays, Sally does the shopping with a support worker while Kylie does some physical exercise, such as going for a walk, and exercises her brain with some puzzles, also with support from staff.

Then on Tuesday Kylie has health appointments or spends time listening to music and doing activities with her support staff, while Sally has a colouring class.

Next is painting by numbers for Sally and a swimming class for Kylie, then a joint outing for lunch.

Thursdays and Saturdays are the biggest days, with outings for both

sisters ranging from bowling, going to the movies or browsing the shops, to beach days and even a road trip to Tanunda.

Once a month the ladies attend a disco on a Saturday night and every second week the Spry Support Services staff coordinate with another supported home to organise a group outing with both houses’ residents and workers.

Sally says the regular outings are the best part of her week.

Every now and then their older sister Susan and her son Levi also visit the sisters at home so they can spend time together as a family.

Household tasks

The support workers help Kylie and Sally not only with their activities, but also with some of the housework and other everyday tasks, such as washing dishes, vacuuming, medications, preparing food and general cleaning.

For each of the outings, classes and appointments, support workers arrange all the transport.

Kylie and Sally enjoy living together, but also have their own schedules so they can spend some time pursuing their own interests.

Photo: Supplied

“I like having the company, it helps with my confidence as well.”

Kylie has help with personal care, but Sally is independent when it comes to personal tasks.

Life skills

Sally also says she helps by doing her own washing and making her own bed - with help for the awkward job of fitting the top sheet, making her own breakfast and cleaning up

afterwards, and lending a hand to prepare vegetables for dinner if the support workers ask.

She takes pride in the fact that she checks the letterbox daily and recycles any drink containers the pair use.

With a lifestyle she enjoys so much, it can be difficult for Sally to think about anything she would like to change, so she says her goal is to, “continue to

be healthy” by maintaining her health and wellbeing.

She has also put her mind to trying to do more baking and cooking, one of her most recent hobbies!

With the support of Spry Support Services, Sally and Kylie are both certain there will be plenty of fun to be had each week into the future, and are comfortable in the fact that they will by provided with any help they need to continue living independently side-by-side.

Sally says the regular outings are the best part of her week.

Sally and Kylie go on regular outings together with their support workers. Photos: Supplied

In Home & Community Support

To discuss respite services in your area, call the Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737.

It is also a good idea to speak to your Local Area Coordinator about your respite options, especially if you want to access it on a regular basis.

Go to the directory section starting on page 62 to find respite options in your area.

Sports, social and recreational support

Being involved and active within your local community is good for your health and wellbeing and can be made easier with additional supports.

Support for sports, social and recreational activities can include having someone help you find activities you will enjoy, organising a companion to join you on your activity, having access to specialised sporting equipment, help with changing into sports clothes and assistance in manipulating equipment.

Some activities you may enjoy include outings to the movies or shopping centre, going to the park, cooking classes, art and craft classes, bowling, going to the beach, swimming, attending a sporting game, catching up with friends and attending community events.

Youth groups and holiday camps are regular activities enjoyed by many people. Trained support workers attend these outings to ensure you are comfortable and safe.

If you want to participate in sports, social and recreational activities, speak to your carer or Local Area Coordinator about your options under the NDIS.

Turn to page 62 to find sports, social and recreational options for people with disability in Central and Western Australia.

Transport

If you need some help to get from one place to the next, transport supports are available to make your life easier. Being able to attend appointments, education, work and social activities are an important and essential part of your wellbeing.

A support worker can drive you to and from where you want to go, however, there are a lot of other transport support options. These will be included in your NDIS plan if you cannot use public transport because of your disability.

Subsidised taxi vouchers are available if you have a significant disability or use a wheelchair, to help cover the costs of fares.

Some community transport services offer buses for people with disability and these are a great option if you are looking for social activities as they often organise day trips to places like the zoo.

For more information about transport options under the NDIS turn to page 46.

Discover transport support providers within the In Home & Community Support directory starting on page 62.

Travel and holidays

Going on holiday and traveling to new places can be fantastic and relaxing, but it can also be a logistical nightmare for people with disability to make sure all the supports you need are in place.

While difficult, it is definitely not impossible. And better yet, there are many services available providing accessible tourism or ways to foolproof your travel.

If you are intending to organise your own trip, there are some considerations to take into account.

Even if places, tourist sites, accommodation or travel groups say they are accessible, it is a good idea to call ahead and make sure they can accommodate you.

Share details about your trip with your doctor and see if they raise concerns about any items on your itinerary.

It is a good idea to carry detailed information about your medication and disability, signed by a doctor. If you are bringing medication along, bring a couple weeks worth more than normal, just in case of a flight delay or any unexpected hiccups.

When travelling to another country, look into any rules or requirements of the country and whether that can affect your travel. For instance, Indonesia is extremely strict on medication and what you can bring in. Talk to your pharmacist as they may be able to provide you with extra documentation.

There are travel companion organisations to assist you on the actual holiday, or businesses that can create your ideal holiday that is accessible physically, socially and mentally.

Depending on your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) package, you may be able to receive funding from the Government to help you travel.

Lastly, enjoy yourself. The whole point of a trip is to relax. Good planning is one way to achieve an even better holiday for yourself or the whole family.

Visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au for more information about accessible travel or to find providers who can assist.

In Home & Community

Services Berrimah 0400 889 373

Anglicare NT Winnellie 08 8985 0000

Carers NT Darwin 08 8944 4888

Dignity Plus Palmerston 0468 491 102

DMKM Venture Yarrawonga 08 8941 1767

Golden Glow Nursing Services Darwin Berrimah 08 8927 2756

Henbury School Council Tiwi 08 8997 7099

Mental Illness Fellowship Of Australia

Coconut Grove 08 8948 1051

MJD Foundation Coconut Grove 1300 584 122

New Chapters New Beginnings Darwin 08 8943 8000

NT Friendship & Support Katherine 08 8971 0027

Playing With Spirit

Fannie Bay 0468 711 400

TeamHEALTH Berrimah 1300 780 081

Territory Disability Services Alice Springs 08 8952 3800

Ubuntu Community Services Rosebery 0411 143 710

Venture Housing Company Darwin 08 8981 9804

Providers servicing Kakadu Arnhem region

Anglicare NT

Winnellie 08 8985 0000

Buku Larrnggay Mulka Yirrkala 08 8987 1701

Carers NT Darwin 08 8944 4888

44075

57762

57764

19204

57775

57791

44107

48001

44113

57799

47373

44128

56956

48049

44075

57751

44106 TeamHEALTH Berrimah 1300 780 081

Australian Red Cross  Adelaide 08 8100 4500

Autism SA Clovelly Park 08 8379 6976

Body Cycles Australia Morphett Vale 0407 912 107

Brain Injury SA Adelaide 08 8217 7600

Cara Hindmarsh 08 8347 4588

CareCo Services St Agnes 08 8543 8835

Community Support Inc Wayville 08 8429 1200

Country Health Connect Nuriootpa 1800 944 912

47923

We were created and designed in 1990 by people with disabilities to achieve an important goal: to make sure our customers are in control of their lives.

At Enhanced Lifestyles we respect your choices and decisions around exactly how and when you want support. Whether you need a helping hand around your home, or support to pursue your passions and do the things you love in your community, our dedicated team will be there when it suits you.

08 8234 5266

No Strings Attached Theatre of Disability Stepney 08 8363 5970

Novita Hindmarsh 08 8243 8243

OARS Community Transitions Christies Beach 08 8218 0700

One Care Support Services West Croydon 08 8340 2851

PlanNET SA Stirling 0400 101 937

Precious Disability Services

precioushealthgroup.com.au 08 6278 3188

RAZ CARE Disability -Home Care Erye 0470 711 431

Respite Care Program Enfield 08 8343 6533

Riding for the Disabled Association SA O’Halloran Hill 08 8377 3150

Right at Home RightCare 07 3054 1360

Royal Society for the Blind of SA Adelaide 1300 944 306

Skylight Mental Health Wayville 08 8378 4100

45320

45319 My Choice and Network Prospect 0431 568 088

43022

61199

48300

45379

63421

62820

45073

45408

61 22069

45420

Adelaide

Always

Anfe

Angaston Medical

Apple Care Community Services Payneham 08 7081 5295

Artfusion Counselling Services Norwood 0403 080 643

Assured Home Care Mile End South 08 8374 2444

Australia Wide Reliable Care Services

Kilkenny 0406 291 956

Australian Migrant Resource Centre Adelaide 08 8217 9509

Australis Cleaning Services

0413 076

B & B Cleaning Morphett Vale 08 8382 8439

Balance Home Services

Baptist Care SA

Barkuma

8338 3433

8273 7190

08 8414 7100

Barkuma - Accommodation Elizabeth 08 8414 7100

Barossa Clean Daveyston 0434 121 484

Barossa Enterprises Nuriootpa 08 8562 4855

Barossa Valley Cleaning Services Freeling 0438 847 198

Bedford Group Panorama 08 8275 0211

Behaviour Support SA Hindmarsh 08 8122 6733

BET Group Global Maylands 08 8366 6550

Bower Place Adelaide 08 8221 6066

45416

62350

139 44965

57854

48083

57857

58054

19684

47939

47940

48089

44978

57860

88 41137

61185

45098

Britten-Jones Occupational Therapy Services Kent Town 0424 398 989

Carer & Community Support Eastwood 08 8433 9555

Caring SA Ingle Farm 0450 041 420

Centacare Catholic Family Services Adelaide 08 8215 6818

Centacare Northern Network Davoren Park 08 8228 8900

Community

Community

Community

Community

Complexoty

57873

48105 Bubble and Squeak Home & Yard Services Parafield Gardens 0451 866 647

21764

83 63629

45019

Community Support Incorporated has been a leading provider of home care services and support coordination in the disability sector, for over 30 years across South Australia.

We understand that every individual has their own goals and aspirations, and we aim to help our clients achieve this.

Community Support works closely with you to build your personalised NDIS support plan and find the right Support Worker to assist you in achieving your goals.

We support you at home and in the community to help you live Your Life. Your Way.

To find out more, contact us today!

Telephone 08 8429 1200

Email hello@csisa.org.au

Or via our website csisa.org.au

Community Support Inc. provides personalised and professional home care services to help you live Your Life. Your Way. csisa.org.au

Winacare Disability Services

We value each person as an individual, respect their aspirations and commitments in life, and seek to understand their priorities, needs, abilities and limits. We take what others have to say seriously. We are honest about our point of view and what we can and cannot do.

WinaCare Disability Services is a NDIS registered provider, that is managed by a leadership Team who possesses decades of experience between them, in the areas of Nursing, Management and Education in the Disability, Aged Care sectors who are dedicated to Making a Positive Difference to the Community, through individualised support and personcentred practice. WinaCare Disability Services is based in Adelaide providing 24/7 support across Adelaide and Brisbane to people with intellectual, physical, sensory, cognitive and psychosocial disabilities.

We strive to not only facilitate change to the lives of those we work with and support, but also, to the community as a whole.

The Mission of WinaCare Disability Services is to empower the disabled and vulnerable, by eliminating barriers and creating opportunities to succeed, enhancing the dignity and quality of life of individuals within our community.

AS A COMMUNITY BASED ORGANISATION WE SEEK A WORLD OF HOPE, A WORLD OF TOLERANCE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE AND A WORLD WERE PEOPLE LIVE IN DIGNITY WITH CULTURAL SAFETY.

581

Flinders University of South Australia Bedford Park 08 8201 7963

Focus Day Options Salisbury 0400 965 081

Fox Mowing & Gardening

Friendly and Graceful Care Services

Garden, Lawn and Yard Maintenance

Hallett Cove 1800 369 669

Mawson Lakes 0420 203 717

Salisbury North 0487 801 364

Gawler Care & Share Group Gawler South 0447 710 677

Grass and Twigs Garden Care Kudla 0424 241 211

Greek Welfare Centre SA

Torrensville 08 8212 5100

Guiding Angels Fitness Physiotherapy Torrensville 0412 484 009

22262

48401

45120

41879

48178

48123

45127

57923

48192

45372

45143 HCO Disability and Community Services Mt Barker 08 8398 4400

Hana Goltz Occupational Therapy Grange 0400 658 467

Love Life Counselling

Mackenzie Driving Services Davoren Park 0406 630 049

Margi Rouse Christie’s beach 0430 447 712

Mary Ogle - Developmental Educator Seacliff Park 0408 063 221

Mentoring Adelaide Happy Valley 0402 247 098

Metrocare Services Mawson Lakes 0460 709 569

Minda North Brighton 1800 164 632

My Care Solution

Campbelltown 08 8331 9922

My Future My Way Athelstone 0408 881 040

My Little Physio Family Unley 0451 767 278

My Support My Way Paradise 0430 206 786

Northern Adelaide Supportive Care Gawler South 08 8523 5499

OARS Community Transitions Hindmarsh 08 8218 0700

OK Psychology Tea Tree Gully 08 8264 2311

One Culture Support Services Kilburn 08 7080 3894

Orana Netley 08 8375 2000

Paradise Community Care Paradise 08 8336 0066

Parafield Gardens Swim School Parafield Gardens 08 8285 3666

Pathways to Recovery Salisbury 08 8281 3626

People Come First Modbury 08 8396 0476

Personal Touch Home Cleaning Paralowie 0427 604 703

Pop-Up Community Care St Peters 1300 858 047

Premium Home Care Service Brooklyn Park 08 8238 3430

Rapidswim Hindmarsh 08 8122 6730

Recreation & Active Disability Support Encounter Bay 08 7530 5719

Refresh Carpet Care Parafield Gardens 0413 086 270

Restless Dance Theatre Adelaide 08 8212 8495

Right at Home Adelaide Central Prospect 08 8318 7926

Robyn Whittle-Hughes Blackwood 0402

21745

56108

48346

48297

55663

62724

45303

77 22185

45321

• 62797

56160

45341

45344

45335

45350

47942

45359

57993

45361

45365

61778

56255

48320

45180

62016

48334

63332

45406

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR HIGH QUALITY, RELIABLE AND TAILORED SUPPORT FOR YOU OR A LOVED ONE?

Our clients are at the heart of everything we do, and our services will be catered to your individual needs.

Whether you need temporary assistance or long-term help, we can provide around-the-clock high level support, or a helping hand with daily tasks.

Alliance Community is Australia’s leading provider of premium community support and a registered NDIS provider, with over 140 collective years’ experience in nursing and community support through our national network.

Together we are skilled in developing flexible support in partnership with you. Your needs are unique. We will listen to you and your preferences to find you the best specialised staff to support you to live the life you want.

Accept

Adelaide Quality Care Services Ingle Farm 1800 870 099

AHH Lifeskills Aldgate 0429 323 221

Alliance Community Unley 1300 769 155

Always Care Services Para Hills 08 8369 8227

Apple Care Community Services Payneham 08 7081 5295

Assured Home Care Mile End South 08 8374 2444

Australia Wide Reliable Care Services

Kilkenny 0406 291 956

88 63578

44938

74 62689

44948

63556

139 44965

57854

Balance Home Services

Fullarton 08 8338 3433

44974 Baptist Care SA Wayville 08 8273 7190

44978 Behaviour Support SA Hindmarsh 08 8122 6733

Heights 08 8266 5592

62381 Homeplace Living Supports Woodville 08 8445 9900

Keiths Lawn Care Seaford 0411 182 088

KNH Quality Time Services Paracombe 0409 098 052

KompleteCare Kilburn 08 8265 5696

Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au Unley 08 8193 9400

Lifestyle Plus Services Frewville 08 8155 5222

Love Life Counselling Munno Para 0405 872 286

Lutheran Disability Services Payneham 08 8212 7766

Mackenzie Driving Services Davoren Park 0406 630 049

Metrocare Services Mawson Lakes 0460 709 569

Minda North Brighton 1800 164 632

My Care Solution Campbelltown 08 8331 9922

My Future My Way Athelstone 0408 881 040

My Little Physio Family Unley 0451 767 278

Northern Adelaide Supportive Care Gawler South 08 8523 5499

One Culture Support Services

56058

45242

60950

140 45275

56108

62724

45303

77 22185

62797

45341

Barkuma Elizabeth 08 8414 7100

Barkuma - Accommodation Elizabeth 08 8414 7100

Barossa Clean

Barossa Enterprises

Barossa Valley Cleaning Services

Daveyston 0434 121 484

Nuriootpa 08 8562 4855

Freeling 0438 847 198

Behaviour Support SA Hindmarsh 08 8122 6733

BET Group Global Maylands 08 8366 6550

Bubble and Squeak Home & Yard Services

Parafield Gardens 0451 866 647

Carers and Disability Link Barossa Nuriootpa 08 8562 4000

Charles Nzohabonayo Salisbury 08 8180 9827

Clare Valley Enterprises Clare 08 8842 1386

Community Living Options Victor Harbor 08 7221 9550

Connected Self Adelaide 08 8232 2438

47939

47940

48089

44978

57860

61185

62353

57873

45011

55644

47908

45036

Barossa Enterprises

08 8562 4855

Bedford Group Panorama 08 8275 0211

Behaviour Support SA

Hindmarsh 08 8122 6733

Caring SA Ingle Farm 0450 041 420

Clare Valley Enterprises

Clare 08 8842 1386

Community Bridging Services Adelaide 08 8224 2900

Connected Self Adelaide 08 8232 2438

Country Health Connect Mount Barker 1800 944 912

Desert Therapy 0435 554 152

44978

88 41137

61185

83 63629

47908

172 47913

45042

45023

48027

Eliza Cottle

Balaklava 0428 810 099

Focus Day Options Salisbury 0400 965 081

48343

45095 EXPRESSX Berri 08 8213 6600

45120

63627 Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au Unley 08 8193 9400

HYPE Aged & Disability Services Hillbank 0499 413 902

Community Living Options Victor Harbor 08 7221 9550

Country Health Connect Mount Barker 1800 944 912

Daisy Hills Services Victor Harbor 0458 767 755

Different Drum: Counselling, Disability, Arts Hindmarsh Island 0431 455 043

Direct Care Australia Campbelltown 08 8336 8861

Enhanced Lifestyles Welland 08 8340 2000

Fox Mowing & Gardening Hallett Cove 1800 369 669

Hearts To Homes Prospect 1300 328 043

Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au Unley 08 8193 9400

Metrocare Services Mawson Lakes 0460 709 569

Recreation & Active Disability Support Encounter Bay 08 7530 5719

Providers servicing Limestone Coast region

Australian Migrant Resource Centre Adelaide 08 8217 9509

Barkuma Elizabeth 08 8414 7100

Barkuma - Accommodation Elizabeth 08 8414 7100

Bedford Group Panorama 08 8275 0211

Boandik Mount Gambier 08 8724 1251

Boandik Community Care Mount Gambier 08 8724 1251

144 45035

45036

45023

45054

45083

61722

45260

48083

41137

48101

17509

Centacare Catholic Family Services Adelaide 08 8215 6818

Community Living Australia Mount Barker 08 8536 5888

Country Health Connect Mount Barker 1800 944 912

Enhanced Lifestyles Limestone

45039

45019 Claro Malvern 08 7009 4900

45023

3 19684

Barossa Enterprises Nuriootpa 08 8562 4855

Bedford Group Panorama 08 8275 0211

Charles Nzohabonayo Salisbury 08 8180 9827

Community Bridging Services Adelaide 08 8224 2900

Community Living Options Victor Harbor 08 7221 9550

Complexoty Campbelltown 0431 908 451

disAbility Living Stepney 08 8132 5400

Eliza Cottle Balaklava 0428 810 099

EllieB’s Mawson Lakes 08 8252 1000

KompleteCare Kilburn 08 8265 5696

Kura Yerlo Port Adelaide 08 8241 0442

Love Life Counselling Munno Para 0405 872 286

Lutheran Disability Services Payneham 08 8212 7766

55644

172 47913

45036

45534

87, 118 45084

45095

45094

45244

60950

45303 Pop-Up Community Care St Peters 1300 858 047

ClassBento

Cocoon SDA Homes

Community

Community Vision Kingsley 1800 968 754

Compass Care Group Osborne Park 08 9302 1402

Computer Coach Australia 0407 956 071

Continuity Care Australia  1800 012 273

Cystic Fibrosis WA Nedlands 08 6224 4100

Down Syndrome WA Cannington 08 6253 4752

Drake Medox 1300 360 070

Empower Golf Australia 0466 825 044

Enable Ability 1300 521 541

Essential Disability Care Services 1300 225 199

Family Support WA  Darch 08 9206 3400

41508

47637

63349

47644

61056

61661

54030 Hansa Sailing Systems 02 4403 0595

Footsteps Community Services  0404 709 532

40543

• 44116 Plan and Grow Wangara 08 6444 9682

Perth Healthcare and Support Enterprise Carramar 0418 750 524

Poolwerx Corporation 1800 237 775

Recovery Plus Support 1800 512 281

Reel Keen Powerchair Fishing 0418 128 749

Right at Home RightCare 07 3054 1360

Right at Home WA 1300 363 802

Road Safety Educators Australia 0411 110 112

Royal Far West Windmill Program 02 8966 8500

Signpedia 0436 400 194

63421

53428 Precious Disability Services precioushealthgroup.com.au Lynwood 08 6278 3188

62152

40597

61 22069

61 63499

47199

40610

50043

48023 SOS Watch 1300 767 225

Sister Sensory 0401 689 313

South West Community Transport 02 9426 8999

40664 St Jude’s Disability Services Kewdale 08 9279 4343

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia 1800 819 775

Homage

Imagine Community Services The Vines 0405 118 017

Imagine Community Services - Midvale Midland 0405 118 017

Inclusion WA Osborne Park 08 9201 8900

Interchange WA Maddington 08 9329 9399

Jennifer Holl Lesmurdie 0404 969 780

Key Assets The Children’s Services Stirling 08 9207 5900

Kites Children’s Therapy Victoria Park 08 9311 8222

KompleteCare WA Welshpool 08 9329 4955

Life Live It Mt Hawthorn 08 9201 0705

Life Without Barriers WA lwb.org.au Leederville 08 9208 3428

Lifeplan Welshpool 08 9277 7223

Loveridge Occupational Therapy Services Kalamunda 0419 629 329

Melville Cares Palmyra 08 9319 0900

53390

47711

61313

47714

47720

47701

49486

122, 123 63464

63152

54975

47765 MGM HealthCare Perth mgmhealthcare.org.au Parkwood 0499 890 017

Mental Illness Fellowship of Western Australia Midland 08 9237 8900

63519 Mosaic Community Care

Perth Wide Home Care Malaga 0413 848 701

Perth’s A-Z Handyman Services Perth 0418 818 470

Regen Exercise Physiology Harrisdale 0411 569 006

Remo’s Handyman Service Gidgegannup 0419 049 041

Richmond Wellbeing Cannington 08 9350 8800

Riding for the Disabled Hills Group Sawyers Valley 0439 420 781

Right at Home WA

Kalgoorlie Wheatbelt, Perth Como, Perth Midland, Perth Northern Suburbs, Perth West Coast 1300 363 802

54998

47822

47823

61 63499

Rocky Bay Mosman Park 08 6282 1900

Simply Helping Lower North Perth Bedford 08 9371 9115

Six Star Disabled Driver Training Pinjarra 0411 511 729

Southern Care Services WA

Harvey 08 9729 2096

Spectrum Space Fremantle 08 9431 2111

Synapse - Australia’s Brain Injury Organisation 07 3137 7400

The Good Meal Company 1800 155 255

The Vines Resort & Country Club

The Vines 08 9297 3000

Triple A Care Perth 08 9328 7688

Unique Support Services

Wanneroo 08 6400 1198

55006

47827 Shire of Manjimup Manjimup 08 9771 6900

91 47842

47843

62478

54910

43682

48404

47872

55023

47882 Uniting WA - Fremantle Lockyer 1300 663 298

Community Living Association WA Albany 08 9842 3855

Early Start Australia

Empower Golf Australia 0466 825 044

HCA Home WA Osborne Park 1300 422 111

Home Cleaning Bunbury 0448 929 900

HorsePower Australia Brigadoon 08 9296 4655

I Hate Cooking  0410 526 477

Key Assets The Children’s Services Stirling 08 9207 5900

Lamp Inc Bussleton 08 9754 1834

Life Live It

Life Without Barriers WA lwb.org.au

MGM HealthCare Perth mgmhealthcare.org.au Parkwood 0499 890 017

20083

61666

47808

41742

47694

61655

55002

53390

49486

62735

47743

Therapists & Specialists

We can help you access the NDIS and help you understand what it means for your child. Our family centred team of sensory experts o ers a range of services and supports at home, within all educational settings including child care, pre school and school as well as clinic based services. A wide range of both individual and group programs including early intervention, listening and spoken language programs, speech pathology, occupational therapy, assistive technology, social work, orientation and mobility and mealtime and feeding can be accessed depending on individual needs.

About Therapists & Specialists

Living with a disability can be challenging but there are a wide range of therapies and supports available to help make life easier for you. By having access to therapy or specialised support sessions you may be able to maintain or regain independence, manage behaviours or look after your mental wellbeing.

Specially trained medical and therapeutic professionals can provide services to help you communicate or gain strength to move, they may help with pain management or overcoming psychological issues associated with your disability.

For instance, you may need the services of a physiotherapist to help with movement, a speech therapist to help with communication or swallowing issues or a nutritionist to advise you on your diet. Occupational therapists can give recommendations for equipment specific to your needs and other specialists can assist with teaching you life skills or help with self expression.

Case study

On 18 May, 2013, Josh was involved in a speedway accident which broke his spine and resulted in him becoming a paraplegic.

Since the accident Josh has used a wheelchair and for several years he worked as a contractor on cattle and sorghum properties.

When it came time to get a new wheelchair, Josh’s support coordinator suggested an “all-terrain chair” and put him in touch with service provider RAR Therapy.

Before he knew it Josh was trialling an all-terrain chair and being measured up by one of RAR Therapy’s occupational therapists for a chair of his own.

Josh then moved into the role of caretaker on a cattle station and the all-terrain chair meant he was able to access sheds and cattle yards in any weather condition.

He was also able to go into a standing position to check engines or sort cattle.

Up until this point Josh and his family had only experienced the services of the occupational therapists from the Brisbane area, and Josh’s mum Juanita says although they were “very talented”, they didn’t quite understand the challenges of rural and remote settings.

“Accessibility and terrain make a huge impact on not only the type of help required, but also the functionality of what is needed to overcome some of the day-to-day tasks,” says Juanita.

“Since our introduction to RAR Therapy they have been instrumental in helping and planning for future equipment needs, not to mention home modifications and manual wheelchair requirements.

“Their level of service and professionalism is second to none, and they are genuinely interested in

Therapists & Specialists

getting the most successful outcome for their client and following up on the little things, which are in fact big things, when it comes to living life to its fullest in a wheelchair.”

Juanita says to know that Josh is happy and living his best life is all that any parent wants for their child, and she is “forever grateful” to anyone that helps Josh achieve his goal of independence and choice.

Case study provided by RAR Therapy

Josh’s all terrain wheelchair means he can work as a cattle station caretaker. Photo: Supplied

Therapists & Specialists

The techniques therapists use also vary. Some therapies are physical and can involve water or use specialist equipment like balance equipment or play therapy equipment such as swings. Other therapies such as speech therapy or occupational therapy may use games or toys.

A lot of specialists practice from a hospital or clinic, however, they may be able to come to your home to provide their services. Some therapists, such as speech and occupational therapists, can visit your child at their school for regular sessions which minimises the impact of missed classes. If you are caring for a loved one with a disability, you or other members of your family may also be entitled to receive support to help you in your caring role. This may be something general such as learning first aid skills, or it could be more specialised to the needs of the person with disability; for example, learning sign language or how to manage behaviours associated with autism.

On the following pages we explain what different therapists and specialists do and how they can help you. The Therapists & Specialists Directory starting on page 110 lists providers that deliver services in Central and Western Australia.

Behavioural support

Behavioural support, or therapy, is used to treat a range of health conditions and disabilities. The therapy focuses on changing current, unhealthy or self-destructive behavioural problems or teaching you what is appropriate, socially acceptable behaviour. To do this, the behavioural therapist will try to understand why you are behaving this way and will develop strategies to support you.

This therapy can be used to treat depression, anxiety, anger issues and panic disorders. People with conditions such as autism, ADD/ADHD and psychosocial disorders like PTSD, bipolar and OCD can also benefit from behavioural therapy.

There are four types of behavioural therapy:

1. Cognitive behavioural therapy focuses on how thoughts and beliefs can influence your actions and moods and how to change this.

2. Cognitive behavioural play therapy is commonly used with children to gain insight into what a child is uncomfortable expressing or unable to express.

3. System desensitisation is used to treat phobias where people are taught to replace a fear response with a relaxation response.

4. Aversion therapy is often used to treat substance abuse by teaching people to associate a stimulus that they find desirable, with an extremely unpleasant stimulus.

Behavioural therapy is considered extremely effective, with about 75 percent of people undergoing cognitive behavioural therapy experiencing some benefits from the treatment.

Turn to the Therapists & Specialists Directory on page 110 to find providers that offer behavioural support.

Dietitians/Nutritionists

Seeking advice from a dietitian or nutritionist can benefit the general health and nutritional wellbeing of people with disability. A qualified nutritionist can provide a range of evidence-based nutrition services, including advice on food and nutrition and how it impacts on health.

A dietitian can additionally provide individual and group dietary counselling, medical nutrition therapy and food service management.

A dietitian or nutritionist may provide recommendations to help you maintain a healthy weight or manage your condition through a healthy diet. If you are a wheelchair user, a nutrition plan may play an important role in managing your condition, especially if you require a specialised diet.

A dietitian may also work alongside a speech therapist to help you overcome swallowing difficulties or food phobias.

You can find a dietitian or nutritionist near you in the Therapists & Specialists Directory starting on page 110.

Early intervention

The social, emotional and physical development of your child will affect how they mature and how their abilities develop in later life. If your child has a developmental delay or disability, it is important they receive quality support to improve and develop skills to participate in daily activities and enable them to be the best they can be in adult life.

Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), children under the age of seven years old can access early childhood intervention supports to maximise their development.

There are also supports available if you are the parent, carer or family member of a child with developmental delay or a disability to help you in your daily life.

You can read more about early intervention under the NDIS on page 21 and find providers in the Therapists & Specialists Directory starting on page 110.

Occupational therapists

Occupational therapists (OTs) help people of all ages gain or regain their confidence and independence in everyday life.

They can assist you in making everyday activities easier, such as self-care, home maintenance, driving, shopping, mobility, education, social participation, leisure and play, employment and volunteer activities.

OTs play an important role in the disability sector, as they often help in injury rehabilitation, progressive conditions and disabilities that affect a person’s ability to manage in daily life.

They can help people with brain or spinal injuries relearn activities or determine new ways of accomplishing them. They can also help children with autism regulate their behaviour, help develop low muscle tone, improve concentration for learning and help children become aware of their bodies and spatial awareness.

OTs may recommend technological and environmental modifications such as aids and equipment, vehicle modifications and home modifications, as well as make suggestions for respite care.

To find an occupational therapist near you, look in the Therapists & Specialists Directory starting on page 110.

Therapists & Specialists

Local support means Carl can do more

Carl Faulkner is a Local Area Coordinator from Ellenbrook in Western Australia, so when it comes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), he knows what’s up. This meant that when it came to reviewing his own supports he knew exactly where to go.

Carl lives with Multiple Sclerosis and has his own NDIS plan which he uses for supports to keep him mobile and working.

The biggest support for Carl’s mobility is the services he receives from Therapy Focus.

He first came across the provider several years ago while working with a client who had their own NDIS plan. “My initial contact with Therapy Focus was with one of my participants who needed a package of care and assistive technology implemented very quickly because he wasn’t a well gentleman,” Carl explains.

“I got involved with an OT (Occupational Therapist) through Therapy Focus and literally what we required was sorted out within a week.

“So it was a multidisciplinary team that was a support coordinator, OT [and me]. We got everything sorted out for this guy and I was really impressed with the service, the quality and the integrity of it all.”

It was obvious to Carl that when he needed to find his own OT and physiotherapist he should start at Therapy Focus.

A convenient location

Being able to access local services is important to Carl, and he initially visited a Tharapy Focus physiotherapist near his work office. When that physio left, he discovered there was another physio working through the same provider in his home town of Ellenbrook.

He says this discovery was a “real positive” and adds “I wasn’t well a little while ago and I’m not allowed to drive at the present time so she just pops around to my house and it’s only about a five minute drive”.

His therapists have also helped improve his mobility and home environment and Carl says he enjoys that his OT will visit for assessments and “suggest things to try”.

With help from his OT, Carl has tried using different types of crutches and a wheelchair, installed handrails on his shower walls and looked into getting a new shower to help with easier access and independence in his home.

The convenient service provision was even available to Carl during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when he was able to travel to the nearby offices, masked up, to receive his therapy.

Getting out and about

Thanks to the ongoing quality support Carl receives through his physiotherapist for movement and occupational therapist for assistive technology, he was able to safely travel to England recently with his wife to visit his adult son and other family members.

With his wife, Carl also makes an effort to take their dog out for walks and occasionally enjoys going out for a meal, which is all dependent on his ongoing mobility.

“Literally what we required was sorted out within a week.”

Carl gets along well with his Occupational Therapist, who has suggested a range of mobility supports.

Photos: Chantel Concei

To get out and about on weekends, the couple sometimes visits the local shops, where Carl, supported by his mobility aids, “helps [his] wife spend her money in Kmart”.

“I’m really happy,” he says, “Obviously if I wasn’t happy I wouldn’t be with Therapy Focus”.

“It’s a very professional company and I don’t feel I’ve been let down at all.”

Carl adds that the provider delivers exactly what is promised, which gives him confidence in the service.

“It does what it says on the box, I’ve always been impressed with Therapy Focus,” he says.

Listening to what you have to say. Getting to know you as an individual. Transforming the way therapy is delivered. We’re Therapy Focus, and we’re ready to share your journey.

Occupational Therapy | Speech Pathology | Physiotherapy | Psychology | Dietetics | Continence 1300 135 373 therapyfocus.org.au

Every person’s journey should be extraordinary

“It does what it says on the box, I’ve always been impressed with Therapy Focus.”

Carl’s various therapies allow him to be able to go on walks with his wife and dog. Photos: Chantel Concei

Therapists & Specialists

Paediatricians

Paediatricians are doctors who specifically look after the health of children, including physical, behaviour and mental health issues. They diagnose and treat childhood illness, infections and disease.

Up to the age of five, a paediatrician will see your child to complete physical examinations, give your child vaccinations, ensure they meet growth, behaviour and skill milestones, provide information, answer your questions and refer to specialists if required.

Paediatricians can closely monitor your child’s development and diagnose learning difficulties, ADHD, auditory or sensory processing disorders, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, autism and Down syndrome, among a whole host of other health conditions. As they see only children, they have a lot of experience in recognising and treating childhood health issues.

If your child was born premature or has a health condition that requires close monitoring, a paediatrician offers specialised care. If your child requires the help of another specialist, they will organise referrals.

A list of paediatricians can be found within the Therapists & Specialists Directory starting on page 110.

Physiotherapists

Physiotherapists work closely with their patients to help them feel better across a number of ailments. They assess, diagnose, treat and prevent a range of health conditions through massage, stretching and exercises.

If your child has a developmental delay, a physiotherapist can help with movement and coordination. They can create treatment programmes to help maintain muscle strength, increase flexibility and prevent stiffening of joints.

Physiotherapists can assist with movement, coordination and balance in people with conditions such as muscular dystrophy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy and spina bifida. They also work in injury prevention, acute care, chronic disease management, occupational health, rehabilitation and maintenance of functional mobility.

Find physiotherapists in your area in the directory starting on page 110.

Psychologists

Psychologists help people learn to cope more effectively with life and mental health issues. Some people see a psychologist to work through long-term problems, such as depression or anxiety, or short-term problems like grief.

Psychologists can help people cope with stress, overcome addictions and manage chronic illness which may affect their mental or physical health.

Common types of therapy used by psychologists include cognitive, behavioural or a combination of the two, interpersonal, humanistic or psychodynamic therapy. Therapy coupled with medication can prove more effective for some health conditions.

Psychologists play a pivotal role in treating people with psychosocial disorders, such as depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD and anxiety by helping them talk through, uncover and overcome their feelings.

You’ll find psychologists practicing in Central and Western Australia from page 110.

Speech therapists

Speech therapists can assist with speech, language, communication and fluency problems as well as swallowing difficulties, in both children and adults. They also help with augmentative or alternative communication where people who have trouble speaking learn to communicate in other ways.

Someone diagnosed with sensory processing disorder or auditory processing disorder may benefit from the support of a speech therapist as they can help with understanding language, reading, writing as well as developing social skills. They can also help children with a developmental delay and learning difficulties in reaching milestones.

Additionally to this, speech therapists can help with communication problems associated with stroke, brain injuries, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, hearing impairment and dementia. People with Down syndrome sometimes find it difficult to speak clearly and may see a speech therapist to work on articulation.

Speech therapists often work alongside other professionals such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists, dietitians, audiologists, psychologists, doctors and teachers.

Turn to page 110 to find speech therapists in your area.

Therapeutic supports

Therapeutic supports are products, aids and treatments that can help you gain valuable skills and improve your independence. These supports can assist in areas such as language and communication, personal care, mobility, movement, interpersonal interactions, behaviour and other skills that support a person’s function, development and wellbeing.

Therapeutic supports are offered by a team of health professionals including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists and psychologists, among others.

For example, physiotherapists may prescribe serial casting, splinting, stretches and an exercise program for babies with spina bifida. For someone with sensory sensitivities, an occupational therapist may suggest using a weighted blanket or sensory toys to help stimulate one or more of the five senses.

If you need therapeutic supports turn to page 110 to find supports near you.

Training/workshops

There is a broad range of training and workshop opportunities that are aimed specifically at the person living with disability or to help parents and carers to gain knowledge, understanding or skills to support them in their caring role.

If you are living with a disability, there are workshops that can teach you daily skills or life skills to help with confidence and self esteem and see you live a more independent life.

There are workshops to teach you how to handle money and budget, how to use public transport, how to make friends or you can get training to help you develop specific skills so it may be easier to find a job.

Training opportunities for family or carers can be general like first aid training, or it might be more specific to help you understand your loved one’s disability or condition further and help you give the appropriate support.

Therapists & Specialists

DMKM

60988

57764 Eunoia Lane Winnellie 08 8947 6908

19204 Lianna Panasewycz Farrar 0438 440 687

57797

Mental Illness Fellowship Of Australia Coconut Grove 08 8948 1051

NT Friendship & Support Katherine 08 8971 0027

OT for Kids NT Durack 08 8932 8852

Playing With Spirit Fannie Bay 0468 711 400

Renee Barratt Millner 0416 726 495

Rural and Regional Therapy Services (RAR Therapy) rartherapy.com.au 1800 734 466

Territory Disability Services Alice Springs 08 8952 3800

Ubuntu Community Services Rosebery 0411 143 710

44107

57791 MJD Foundation Coconut Grove 1300 584 122

44113

44115

57799

126 44714

44128

Brain

Can:Do

45260

45384 Tanunda Physiotherapy Tanunda 0437 817 547

WinaCare Disability Services Craigmore 0401 955 099

Providers servicing Clare Valley region

45489

44918 Clare Valley Enterprises Clare 08 8842 1386

Abilities Occupational Therapy Service Angaston 0457 448 643

47908 HYPE Aged & Disability Services Hillbank 0499 413 902

63627 Leonie Martin Kadina 0427 858 725

45256

45246 Play Partners Clare 0400 487 965

OT Country Care Willaston 0427 455 004

45380 Praesidium Psychological Services Lyndoch 08 8524 5074

45057 Bedford Group Panorama 08 8275 0211

88 41137 Country Health Physiotherapy Port Augusta 08 8642 5022

Providers servicing Murraylands region

Access

Alternative

At

Auscare

Australian Community Care Services Welshpool 08 6186 0868

Australian Disability Support Services Cockburn 1800 943 718

Australian Foundation for Disability (Afford) 1800 233 673

Australian Trauma Centre Kalamunda 08 9293 3794

Autism Association of Western Australia Shenton Park 08 9489 8900

47602

63522

125 63603

128-129 50419

40097

Leaders in Early

Blue

Cam

Child

Chung

Coastal Occupational Therapy Shoalwater

Lighthouse Health Group WA South Perth 08 9362 5483

Mental Health and Wellbeing Armadale 0433 644 294

Metro Counselling Duncraig 08 9448 3210

Midline Physiotherapy Nollamara 0423 107 209

61315

47749

47764

47641

47771

Milan Therapeutic Services Mundaring 0488 186 603

National 360 Western Australia Leederville 08 6118 7809

Neurolink Physiotherapy Busselton 08 9448 8239

Nulsen Disability Services Cannington 08 6253 4700

O2 Active (exercise physiology) Mosman Park 0411 642 152

Occupational Therapy Services Group Leeming 08 9332 1783

On the Go Rehabilitation Services Mt Helena 0429 115 211

Paediatric Nursing Services Inglewood 0451 808 158

Patches Therapy Services Midland 08 6280 1259

Peach Speech Pathology Coolbellup 08 9331 5436

Peel Physiotherapy Centre Mandurah 08 9535 5200

Perth Voices Clinic Murdoch 0477 453 264

Richmond Wellbeing Cannington 08 9350 8800

Riding for the Disabled Hills Group Sawyers Valley 0439 420 781

Right at Home WA Kalgoorlie Wheatbelt, Perth Como, Perth Midland, Perth Northern Suburbs, Perth West Coast 1300 363 802

Rockingham Autism Services Rockingham 0478 640 655

Rocky Bay Mosman Park 08 6282 1900

Rural and Regional Therapy Services (RAR Therapy)

47779

47648 MSWA Wilson 1300 097 989

63108

47674

47794

124 63482

47702

47796

47802

61356

47725

54990

55334

47822

47823

63499

47826

47827

Accommodation

Disability Housing and Accommodation

Find a home that’s right for you

The Australian Foundation for Disability (Afford) provides services in accommodation, community services and recreation, and employment for people with a disability.

Supported Independent Living (SIL) Homes

Are you looking for a place to call your own? Our SIL homes are designed to support residents as they develop their independence, participate in community and social activities, and make friendships. We will find a home that’s suitable for your needs with housemates that have shared interests. We can provide 24/7 support in the way you want, so you can feel confident and live independently.

Short Term Accommodation

Are you living with a disability, or caring for someone who is living with a disability, and need accommodation for the weekend or a few weeks? Our clients, their families and carers, may use short-term accommodation or a respite solution for a variety of reasons and Afford is here to support these needs. Afford’s short-term accommodation has personal carers 24/7 and provides a comfortable, furnished, self-contained place to stay, with all meals included. Clients can continue to enjoy their regular community activities, or try some other options including games, sports, and social outings.

afford.com.au

Support Coordination

The team at Afford will support our clients to develop care plans that optimise individual and family needs within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). We understand that our clients’ needs are unique, sometimes complex, and that those needs can also change.

• Find your way through the NDIS process and assist you to identify your goals and select the best services to meet your needs • Assist you to monitor your NDIS plan budget • Discuss accommodation needs, including in-home care, respite, short-term or supported accommodation • Support NDIS plan reviews • Provide support through challenging times

We are here for our clients every step of the way and will support them to make the right choices for them.

Accommodation

Case study

James enjoys a lifestyle that provides him with the time, space, and freedom to explore his passions, like skateboarding and riding his bike. Living in Orana’s Supported Independent Living environment supports James to live the life he wants.

James has been living independently for the last four years, thanks to Orana’s support, enabling him to focus on what really matters to him and allowing him to live life his way. “Living independently has made a positive impact on my life, I get to do the things I like,” he says.

When he’s not at home, James works at Orana’s Netley Business Service, where he helps with product assembly and packaging.

A fun-loving and energetic person, James currently lives with two friends just a short distance from his place of employment, which provides the

About Accommodation

There are different types of accommodation and living arrangements available depending on your situation and needs. You may choose to live with or without support, in your own home or with your family.

When deciding where you’d like to live you should think about the location, style and accessibility of the housing and the support you need every day.

One option is shared housing with friends or people with similar needs. In this situation, you can share costs and help each other with tasks.

If you require help with some tasks, supported accommodation may be for you. You pay a fee to live in community housing and in return, you get your meals cooked for you and assistance with medication, laundry, finances and cleaning.

perfect opportunity to ride his bike to and from work.

James also participates in capacity building and community options programs such as Club Slick, which helps him develop social and independent skills in a fun environment.

With Orana’s support, James is on his way to achieving his NDIS goal of developing his daily living skills; like meal preparation, cooking and cleaning at home.

Supported Independent Living creates a community where people, like James, can socialise with others who share common interests while learning the everyday life skills they want to develop.

Support providers value each person’s uniqueness and help people to achieve their National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and personal goals.

Supported Independent Living allows people to live the life they want, knowing that they are well-supported in a safe and welcoming environment, where their wellbeing comes first.

Orana supports people in a way that helps build confidence and builds belief in their abilities, whilst encouraging people to do the things they enjoy.

Case study provided by Orana

James at Club Slick, learning social skills while having fun. Photo: Supplied

Group or cluster housing allows people with similar needs to live in a cluster of units together.

If you have very high support needs, you may be eligible for NDIS funded Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).

Short-term and emergency accommodation can also be available if you meet the criteria, as well as respite care if you or your carer need some time away.

It is important to do your research to find the best accommodation option that will allow you to fulfil your potential and participate within your community. If you need help finding accommodation to meet your needs and circumstances ask your Local Area Coordinator.

On the following pages we explain different types of accommodation. The Accommodation directory starting on page 135 lists providers that offer different types of accommodation in Central and Western Australia.

24-hour emergency accommodation

If you experience an emergency situation and are unable to stay in your current housing, 24-hour emergency accommodation services can help.

24-hour emergency accommodation can help in situations involving:

⃝ The death of a family member or close friend

⃝ If you or another family member are ill or injured

⃝ Natural disasters such as storm, fire, flood or earthquake

⃝ Breakdown of critical equipment

⃝ Domestic violence situation that puts you or a family member at risk

⃝ Homelessness with custody of children

⃝ Sudden and temporary increase in your support needs

This emergency care could include a substitute carer coming into your home to look after you or a visit to a facility specifically designed to cater to your needs until your primary carer is fit to care for you or it is safe to return to your home.

If you receive support from a disability service provider, it is worth contacting them to see if they are able to help you further by offering emergency care.

You can find providers who offer 24-hour emergency accommodation in the directory starting on page 135.

Housing and public housing

If you have a disability and would like to and are able to live independently, the house hunting journey begins. It is important to live in a home that is safe, comfortable and accessible. If you are renting, having a landlord that is understanding of your disability will make things easier if you need to request home modifications, repairs or improvements.

A good place to start when choosing your property is to think about whether a house, townhouse, apartment, studio or unit would suit your needs best.

Then, make a list of some of the features the property must have in order for it to be ‘liveable’ for you. For example, wheelchair users may live in multi-level apartments thanks to lobby lift access, but be unable to live in a house or apartment with stairs.

Accommodation

Accommodation

There are three types of housing you may like to look for:

1. Accessible housing, designed for people who require step-free and barrierfree access and is able to accommodate wheelchair users.

2. Adaptable housing, designed to be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of its occupants.

3. Modified housing, designed with some modifications, such as an access ramp or bathroom alterations, already completed and available for use.

The Government may help by covering the cost of home modifications to ensure you can live safely and independently in your home. These could include minor modifications such as the installation of handrails, inside ramps, sliding doors and lever taps, or major modifications such as outdoor ramps, lowering of benches and cupboards, and accessibility modifications to the bathroom and laundry areas.

You may be eligible to access home modifications through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), but if you don’t own your home, make sure you have written consent from your landlord before undertaking any changes.

Your Local Area Coordinator can help you find suitable housing. Disability housing search websites such as the Government run TheHousingHub.org.au or DisabilityHousing.com.au can be helpful in kickstarting your housing search.

Turn to page 135 to find providers that can help with housing options.

Long-term accommodation

We all strive for ongoing housing security and living in long-term accommodation will provide peace of mind.

Long-term accommodation enables you to live as independently as you can, and have access to support as needed. For example, if you have a mobility impairment you may have someone come into your house to assist you with house cleaning or personal care tasks like showering.

A number of disability service providers offer long-term accommodation to help people with disability enjoy being a part of the community.

You can find providers who offer long-term accommodation in the directory starting on page 135.

Respite

Taking a break from your carer is beneficial to both of you. Not only does it help maintain positive family and carer relationships, but it also allows you the chance to meet new people and experience new things.

Respite options include:

⃝ Centre-based day support is when you spend the day at a specialised centre, where trained staff know and understand your needs.

⃝ Overnight or weekend facility-based support is a flexible respite option which may involve in home support or staying with a host family.

⃝ In home support is when a support worker will look after you in the comfort of your own home, giving your carer a break.

⃝ Community-based respite can include one-on-one or group outings, social and recreational activities, camps and school holiday programs.

⃝ Host family stays involve staying in the home of a volunteer or host family. It is a good option for children or young people with disability.

⃝ Emergency respite is an urgent request for respite, if your carer is suddenly unable to care for you due to illness or an emergency trip to the hospital.

Your eligibility for respite care depends on the type of care you need and the service provider. An assessment will determine your eligibility and what services will best suit you and your carer.

Find out more about respite services on CarerGateway.com.au or call 1800 422 737.

It is also a good idea to speak to your Local Area Coordinator about your respite options, especially if you want to access it on a regular basis.

You can find providers who offer respite in the directory starting on page 135.

Shared living

If you would prefer to not live alone and instead enjoy the company and support of a housemate, shared living is a good option.

This involves people with similar needs living in a cluster of units together, with access to support.

Some people with disability live with friends or others with similar needs, sharing costs, helping each other with tasks and providing mutual support.

Group homes are where several unrelated people live in a home with support staff. This style of accommodation is for people who need 24-hour support, including help with meals, personal hygiene, appointments and social activities.

Shared living arrangements provide the opportunity for people with disability to meet new people, develop friendships with their roommates, enjoy a social life and maximise their independence while also getting the support they need.

To find providers who can help find the best shared living accommodation for you, turn to page 135 for the Accommodation directory.

Short-term accommodation

Finding the right accommodation setting to meet your needs can be overwhelming, especially if you and your carer need to take a break or you are being discharged from a stay in hospital and need to find accommodation that will ensure you are looked after for a short period of time.

Types of short term accommodation include:

⃝ One-on-one short-term care where you are paired up with a support worker for a period of time that suits your particular needs. This can be spent in your home or out in the community participating in local activities.

⃝ Group short-term options match your needs with other people who may have similar needs and interests and enjoy participating in a group respite activity.

⃝ Facility-based is where your needs and interests align with shared short-term accommodation facilities.

Turn to page 135 to find providers who offer short-term accommodation.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is a type of accommodation especially for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants with very high support needs.

Accommodation

Accommodation

The SDA funding covers the cost of a person’s home where they receive their day-to - day supports. Importantly, it allows people with disability to remain integrated into the community.

SDA gives people with disability a choice about their housing environment, ensuring they receive the right support and housing design for them, including lighting, access spaces and amenities.

If you believe SDA may suit you or a loved one, speak to your Local Area Coordinator.

You’ll find a list of providers offering SDA in the directory starting on page 135.

Supported independent living

You may enjoy living independently but also require some extra support to meet your daily needs. If so, supported independent living may suit you. This type of accommodation may include living in a block of units alongside other people with disability and receiving support in your home.

These types of supports could include laundry, cleaning, meal preparation and personal care.

You may be eligible for NDIS funding in a private rental home, own your own home or Specialist Disability Accommodation.

There are three levels of supported accommodation, depending on your needs and the number of people in the supported living setting.

⃝ Lower needs – supervision of living arrangements and support is not usually provided 24/7.

⃝ Standard needs – 24/7 support including assistance and/or supervision of most daily tasks and overnight sleepovers.

⃝ Higher needs – frequent assistance to the individual with managing challenging behaviours, continual assistance with all daily tasks, management of complex medical needs such as ventilation, active support 24/7 including overnight support.

Turn to page 135 for the Accommodation directory to find providers who offer supported independent living in your State or Territory.

Tenancy

Finding the right rental property if you live with disability can be difficult. For example, if you use a wheelchair you may need somewhere without stairs, with sliding doors and an accessible bathroom.

A home which suits your personal needs can be more expensive or further away from amenities and transport. If you are struggling to afford an accessible home or rental property, there is financial support available such as Rental Assistance through Centrelink.

To help explore rental housing options that meet your needs, contact your local community housing provider.

There are also a number of disability housing organisations who can help find and place you in a suitable rental property.

You can find a list of providers in the Accommodation directory starting on page 135.

48929

1300 577 313

admin@linkup.net.au

www.linkup.net.au

2B/70 Todd Street, Alice Springs, NT, 0870

Our Services

LinkUp Australia began services in May 2018 and is a respected provider of NDIS disability services. Our organisation was established in response to the lack of suitably accessible housing and the limited choice of flexible, person-centred supports for people living with disability in the Northern Territory. Our mission at LinkUp Australia is to help people to live more independently – by designing and delivering quality and innovative services that respond to the needs of the diverse communities we work with. Our vision is that every Australian has every opportunity to live their best life, their way. We work towards our vision every day and do so through our complimentary and NDIS-funded disability services.

We offer our services in Alice Springs and Greater Darwin Region.

NDIS Support Coordination

LinkUp Australia can strengthen your capacity to understand and make the most of your NDIS plan.

Socal & Community Access

LinkUp Australia provides assistance to travel to access services and participate in the community.

Supported Independent Living (SIL) & Accessible Disability Housing Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

LinkUp Australia provides daily living services onsite in your home and/or within our SIL program. Our SIL program offers fully accessible accommodation to meet your housing accessibility needs.

Short and MediumTerm Accommodation

We provide Short & MediumTerm Accommodation, with standard & accessible options.

SDA is a range of housing that are constructed to be more accessible and enable safer delivery of everyday supports. Our goal is to assist and improve quality of life for people living with disability through providing SDA Homes that reflects the need for equal opportunity and access to quality independent living.

Nursing Supports

Assistance with Daily Living Activities

LinkUp Australia provides support to assist with daily tasks to build capacity and develop your skills to live as independently as possible.

LinkUp Australia provides supports to our High Complex Needs participants through nursing assessments, wound care, catheter care, tracheostomy care, insulin administration & various other high intensity services.

Live your best life, your way!

44128

Providers servicing Darwin region

57762 Golden Glow Nursing Services Darwin Berrimah 08 8927 2756

44420 Help Enterprises 1800 877 545

HelpingMinds 08 9427 7100

MCT Care- Disability Care 1300 313 381

Mental Illness Fellowship Of Australia Coconut Grove 08 8948 1051

MJD Foundation Coconut Grove 1300 584 122

New Chapters New Beginnings Darwin 08 8943 8000

44432

47698

57791

44107

48049

Country Health Connect Mount Barker 1800 944 912

disAbility Living disabilityliving.org.au Stepney 08 8132 5400

EllieB’s Mawson Lakes 08 8252 1000

Enhanced Lifestyles Welland 08 8340 2000

HCO Disability and Community Services Mt Barker 08 8398 4400

HYPE Aged & Disability Services Hillbank 0499 413 902

Jump in Support Options Craigmore 0452 215 867

47908

144 45035

87, 118 45084

45094

66 45107

48233

KompleteCare Kilburn 08 8265 5696

45260

45452 Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au Unley 08 8193 9400

Lighthouse Disability Salisbury 08 8256 9800

148 45263 Lutheran Disability Services Payneham 08 8212 7766

Carers and Disability Link Barossa Nuriootpa 08 8562 4000

Clare Valley Enterprises Clare 08 8842 1386

Community Living Australia Mount Barker 08 8536 5888

Community Living Options Victor Harbor 08 7221 9550

Continuum Care Australia Golden Grove 08 8251 1924

Country Health Connect Mount Barker 1800 944 912

Direct Care Australia Campbelltown 08 8336 8861

disAbility Living disabilityliving.org.au Stepney 08 8132 5400

Enhanced Lifestyles Welland 08 8340 2000

Five Good Friends Home Care Services SA Adelaide 1300 787 581

HCO Disability and Community Services Mt Barker 08 8398 4400

Help at Home Maylands 08 8165 5355

Home Of Choice And Care Walkley Heights 08 8266 5592

Homeplace Living Supports Woodville 08 8445 9900

55644

45011 Charles Nzohabonayo Salisbury 08 8180 9827

45036

45043

45023

45083

45084

22262

62381

45169

45242 KompleteCare Kilburn 08 8265 5696

KNH Quality Time Services Paracombe 0409 098 052

45452 Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au Unley 08 8193 9400

45260

45273 Love Life Counselling Munno Para 0405 872 286

Lifestyle Plus Services Frewville 08 8155 5222

SUPPORTED INDEPENDENT LIVING

SUPPORTING YOU TO LIVE A LIFE OF YOUR CHOICE.

Orana’s SIL gives people with different support needs a safe place to live in the community, without giving up your independence.

Orana values each person’s uniqueness and doesn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. The support you receive is adjusted to meet your changing needs, goals, and funding in your NDIS plan. SIL is provided in metropolitan and regional South Australia.

Orana’s Supported Independent Living can help you:

Balance freedom and safety

Build confidence to be more independent

Make a life that works for you More social opportunities

For more information, contact Orana on 08 8375 2000

Creating Opportunities oranaonline.com.au

Nuriootpa 08 8562 4855

BET Group Global Maylands 08 8366 6550

Brightscape SDA Adelaide 08 7099 2777

Carers and Disability Link Barossa Nuriootpa 08 8562 4000

Charles Nzohabonayo Salisbury 08 8180 9827

Clare Valley Enterprises Clare 08 8842 1386

Community Living Options Victor Harbor 08 7221 9550

Country Health Connect Mount Barker 1800 944 912

Direct Care Australia Campbelltown 08 8336 8861

disAbility Living disabilityliving.org.au Stepney 08 8132 5400

Enhanced Lifestyles Welland 08 8340 2000

Five Good Friends Home Care Services SA Adelaide 1300 787 581

HYPE Aged & Disability Services Hillbank 0499 413 902

KompleteCare Kilburn 08 8265 5696

Legacy Lifestyle Supports Morphett Vale 08 8382 8219

Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au Unley 08 8193 9400

Love Life Counselling Munno Para 0405 872 286

Lutheran Disability Services Payneham 08 8212 7766

Metrocare Services Mawson Lakes 0460 709 569

Minda North Brighton 1800 164 632

44978

62353

57872

45011

55644

47908

45036

45023

87, 118 45084

66 45107

22262

63627

45452

57954

45260

60950

140 45275

62724

Bedford Group Panorama 08 8275 0211

Brightscape SDA Adelaide 08 7099 2777

Centacare Catholic Family Services Adelaide 08 8215 6818

Country Health Connect Mount Barker 1800 944 912

HYPE Aged & Disability Services Hillbank 0499 413 902

KompleteCare Kilburn 08 8265 5696

Lee-Ann Reid Port Lincoln 0474 825 870

Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au Unley 08 8193 9400

Orana Netley 08 8375 2000

Country

Pirie

067

Accept Care Group North Adelaide 08 8251 5186

AHH Lifeskills Aldgate 0429 323 221

Alliance Community

Assured Home Care

BET Group Global

End South

769

8374 2444

8366 6550

Brightscape SDA Adelaide 08 7099 2777

88 41137

63627

45452

45254

45528

44929

62689

44965

62353

Brightscape SDA Adelaide 08 7099 2777

Carers and Disability Link Barossa Nuriootpa 08 8562 4000

Charles Nzohabonayo Salisbury 08 8180 9827

Clare Valley Enterprises Clare 08 8842 1386

62353

45053

45011

55644

54897 Adelphi Living Cannington 08 6331 6888

MSWA Wilson 1300 097 989

No Limitts Wanneroo 0411 793 202

Nulsen Disability Services Cannington 08 6253 4700

One2One Midland 08 6278 3900

Paediatric Nursing Services Inglewood 0451 808 158

Peel Home & Community Supports Mandurah WA 0487 696 621

Richmond Wellbeing Cannington 08 9350 8800

Right at Home WA

Kalgoorlie Wheatbelt, Perth Como, Perth Midland, Perth Northern Suburbs, Perth West Coast 1300 363 802

47775

47779

47793

47794

63499

47827 Shire of Manjimup Manjimup 08 9771 6900

Rocky Bay Mosman Park 08 6282 1900

Simply Helping Lower North Perth Bedford 08 9371 9115

Southern Care Services WA Harvey 08 9729 2096

Unique Support Services Wanneroo 08 6400 1198

Uniting WA Perth 1300 663 298

Advisors

About Advisors

Whether you’re trying to find a job, need financial advice or want to gain an understanding of the best supports available to you under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), an advisor who specialises in a specific area will be able to help you make sense of it.

There are employment advisors who can help you work through the opportunities available to you when you transition from school into the workforce, and financial services who can give advice on what affect your disability may have on your income and financial situation. Or you may need help from a plan manager to navigate the funding system to make sure you get the most out of NDIS support services.

Advisors can help make your life easier and will work with you to ensure you get the best outcomes for you. They can look at your personal circumstances and what you’re trying to achieve and give you advice on what steps need to be taken.

On the following pages we explain what different Advisors do and how they can help you. The Advisors directory starting on page 164 lists providers delivering services in Central and Western Australia.

Case study

Brothers Joseph and Ben love going to the gym with their support workers, swimming and playing basketball with their church team.

Joseph (22) also works part time in the kitchen of an aged care home, while Ben (19) is hoping to get a job in a car wash or café and sees moving out of home as the next step in his journey of independence.

The men are the youngest of mum Sheryl’s seven children. Born with Down syndrome, both Joseph and Ben have National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plans and, initially, they and their family decided to leave management of the plans to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

However, Sheryl says they soon found that agency management was restrictive. She was reluctant to self manage her sons’ plans though, likening it to a full time job that would

leave little time for family, friends and daily life.

That’s when the family’s support coordinator recommended My Plan Manager, and the family hasn’t looked back since.

“We like having My Plan Manager on board. It makes things so much less complicated for us, and the flexibility of choice means we can pick cost effective providers that help to stretch Joseph and Ben’s NDIS plan budgets a little further,” says Sheryl.

There’s also the peace of mind that comes from knowing that Joseph and Ben are supported by a team of professional plan managers who know the NDIS inside out.

“My Plan Manager knows exactly what we can and can’t spend the boys’ NDIS funding on,” says Sheryl.

“They make sure everything is done correctly and they let me know if

a provider has made an error with an invoice, or if there’s something we want to buy or do which can’t be claimed.

“By working with My Plan Manager, we know we are following the rules and doing everything right.”

To find out more about My Plan Manager services visit www.myplanmanager.com.au or call 1800 861 272.

Case study provided by My Plan Manager

Advisors

Sheryl with her youngest sons Joseph and Ben Photo: Supplied

Advisors

Assessments

Before you can start any type of therapy or support it is common to have an assessment first. The purpose of assessments is to get to know you, understand how your disability affects your daily life and what support you need to help make your life easier.

You’ll meet the therapist that will support you through the sessions or a clinical director and they will also discuss with you what you would like to achieve through the therapy sessions and what the therapy will involve.

An assessment will identify what your needs are to make sure you receive the appropriate support. In some cases the professional can refer you to other specialists for additional support.

Before you start using special equipment such as a wheelchair, hearing aids or home modification equipment such as grab rails or ramps, it is best to have an assessment to make sure that the equipment you’ll be using is right for you and your circumstances.

To find providers that offer assessments near you, turn to the Advisors directory starting on page 164.

Case coordinators

Case coordinators are highly qualified workers who can meet with you to discuss your needs. They act as overarching case managers, assigning support coordinators to coordinate the supports required in your NDIS plan.

These important coordinators talk to providers about the supports you need and take case notes to support insurance or legal claims.

Case coordinators will identify what supports you may need and keep well- documented information about you and what you require. They will then hand the plan of action over to a support coordinator to implement your supports.

To find case coordinators in your area, turn to the Advisors directory starting on page 164.

Education support

By law every child is entitled to the same education opportunities. For students with disability, schools must make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to student learning programs and the school environment. To ensure a safe and inclusive environment for students with disability adjustments can be made to the way the classroom is set up, the approach to teaching and learning, ways students are assessed for progress, as well as planning to meet individual needs and ongoing training for staff.

In each State and Territory, the Department of Education is responsible for day-to - day supervision of students. This includes employing appropriately trained staff, providing learning aids, organising transport for school activities, adjusting the school curriculum and ensuring the school buildings are easily accessible. However, some supports may be covered through the NDIS.

You may receive education supports through your NDIS plan if you need assistance with self-care at school, specialist transport, portable equipment or specialised, intensive support when transitioning between schools.

Students with disability can access additional support at primary and high school through both internal and external services.

This can include special programs within the school, specialised schools, counselling, tutoring, as well as teaching aids and allied health supports. Support is also available at most preschools, kindergartens and early learning centres.

Specialist advisors can give you further information and guide you if you are interested in continuing in higher education or vocational education and training.

Read more about education support for students with disability on page 44. To find providers that offer education support services go to page 164.

Employment support

As well as increasing your independence and participating in your community, finding employment will help you develop new skills. An employment support advisor can offer career advice and help you plan an employment pathway, so you can work towards your employment goals.

To help with some basics, employment services may assist with writing your resumé or finding other professional development opportunities. They may also support you by finding on-the-job training or support your employer to assist you in your work.

Service providers can also help support you in your employment by providing the opportunity for you to work within a service provider owned business. This is known as ‘supported employment’.

Once you have found a job, you can receive one-on-one support to help you maintain your employment and smooth out any difficulties you may face. There are a number of Government programs which aim to support people with disability in finding and keeping employment.

Read more about employment and volunteering options on page 45 and turn to page 164 to find employment support options near you.

Financial services

Living with or looking after someone with a disability can impact your life financially. Financial services such as financial advisors can assist in budgeting, organising finances and planning for the future.

If your disability means you are unable to work you may be eligible for a regular payment from the Government. Financial advisors can offer advice on how to manage your income and any financial assistance you receive. They can also help in planning for the future, especially if you are under the care of a family member. Financial services can also be appointed to make financial decisions on your behalf.

The Financial Planning Association of Australia can help you find an accredited planner in your local area, however, it is always a good idea to ask financial planning companies if they have previous experience in handling the monetary matters of people with disabilities. Some financial planning companies even specialise in this.

To find financial services turn to page 164 of the Advisors directory.

Advisors

Intervention support

Intervention support is an umbrella term for all the different supports available to help you gain or regain your independence and increase your participation within your community.

These supports could include strategies to prepare you for employment, such as assistance in looking for a job, training and skill building or support in finding community activities that interest you.

Intervention support plays an important role in helping you live a fulfilling life and achieve your goals.

Turn to page 164 to find providers in the Advisors directory section offering intervention support.

Plan managers

Implementing your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan and finding providers that are right for you, can be really stressful to do by yourself. If you don’t want to self-manage your plan or have the Government agency manage your NDIS funds, a plan manager can help. Having a plan manager can make the implementation and navigation of your plan easier.

Plan managers can help you make the most of your funding while being able to use both registered and non-NDIS registered providers for your supports. They give you the freedom of choice and control without all the responsibility of self-managing your NDIS plan.

Instead of contacting the NDIS to access your funding or talking to providers directly about payment, a plan manager is your financial third party who handles all monetary agreements on your behalf.

They receive invoices from your providers, pay invoices, claim funds from the NDIS portal and provide you with a monthly statement showing your funding spending.

Depending on who you choose as a plan manager, they may provide other accompanying services or ‘skill building’ options, including the set up of service agreements with providers, provide perspective on budgeting options, build your financial literacy around the NDIS, and potentially help develop your own skills at managing your NDIS funding.

At your NDIS planning meeting you can discuss how you want your funds managed and you can choose a plan management provider. Your support coordinator can help you select the best plan manager for you.

When selecting a plan manager, look at reviews of their business and try to meet them face to face or arrange a video call to gauge whether they are the right fit for you.

A good plan manager is impartial and always keeps your needs as a priority when providing their expertise.

To find a plan manager near you turn to the directory tables starting on page 164.

Support coordinators

Support coordinators will help you achieve the outcomes you want from your NDIS plan and support services. Their overall aim is to build your ability to have choice and control over your services.

To do this they will help you understand what is included in your plan and help develop your skills so eventually you will be able to implement and manage your own supports and live your best life. They can also connect you to community, mainstream and other Government services.

To meet your individual needs and help you reach your goals, there is no ‘one-sizefits-all’ approach and support coordinators will support each person differently.

To be able to help you get the support you need, support coordinators will need to:

⃝ Understand you, your disability, your family situation or support network

⃝ Liaise with and involve service providers that can meet your and your family’s needs

⃝ Highlight any barriers standing between you and support services and/or achieving your goals

They are also responsible for:

⃝ Ensuring there are adequate funds available to fulfil your support

⃝ Resolving any problems that arise between you and your service provider

Support coordination can be broken up into three levels and how much funding you receive in your plan will depend on your individual circumstances, goals and aspirations.

The three levels of support coordination are:

⃝ Support connection – helps develop your ability to take control of your NDIS plan and supports by maintaining relationships with your service providers, resolving any issues and connecting to support services.

⃝ Support coordination – helps you navigate the often confusing and complex service delivery environment by developing your skills in connecting with, coordinating and managing your support services. It also builds your confidence in reaching out to service providers that will help you meet your individual goals.

⃝ Specialist support coordination – is suited for people in high-risk situations and with very specific needs due to challenges with health, education, or justice services. It will help you address and work through these complex barriers and assists you in connecting to appropriate support services. Specialist support coordination is a high intensity support and is only appropriate under exceptional circumstances.

The main difference between ‘normal’ support coordination and specialist support coordination is that the specialist support coordinator is a qualified and experienced practitioner such as an occupational therapist or a social worker.

Because support coordination is essentially seen as Capacity building it is generally time-limited support. This means that over time, as your understanding, skills and confidence grow, you will be able to manage your services almost independently and the need for support coordination reduces.

Turn to page 164 to find providers in your area that offer support coordination services.

63362

57746 Boomaroo Plan Management boomarooplans.com.au 0492 853 012

Got a disability and want to work?

You are unique and so is our approach. Personalised, caring and innovative supports to help you thrive in work and life.

Scan the QR to find out more!

44113 OT for Kids NT Durack 08 8932 8852

Active Performance 0427 547 918

44075

Arnhem Allied Health Centre Nhulunbuy 08 8919 4727

CASPA Services 1300 227 722

East Arnhem Regional Council Nhulunbuy 08 8986 8986

57752

44077 Carers NT Darwin 08 8944 4888

41332

44087

Eunoia Lane Winnellie 08 8947 6908

44420

60988 HCA Home SA 1300 422 111

Kununurra Optometrists 0459 941 622

57786 Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation Nhulunbuy 08 8939 1900

44106 OT for Kids NT Durack 08 8932 8852

44115 TeamHEALTH Berrimah 1300 780 081

47373 West Arnhem Regional Council Jabiru 08 8982 9551

Boomaroo Plan Management boomarooplans.com.au 0492 853 012

Spry Support Services Smithfield Plains 08 8480 0777

SupportSystem Options Andrews Farm 0422 056 798

Total Support Services Eastwood 1800 800 877

Providers servicing Adelaide region

Assured Home Care Mile End South 08 8374 2444

Australian Migrant Resource Centre Adelaide 08 8217 9509

Baptist Care SA Wayville 08 8273 7190

Barkuma Adelaide 08 8414 7100

Barossa Enterprises Nuriootpa 08 8562 4855

Bedford Group Panorama 08 8275 0211

Centacare Northern Network Davoren Park 08 8228 8900

Community Bridging Services Adelaide 08 8224 2900

Connected Self Adelaide 08 8232 2438

45471

58037

43866

139 44965

48083

3 19684

44977

44978

88 41137

45342

172 47913

45042

87, 118 45084 EllieB’s Mawson Lakes 08 8252 1000

disAbility Living Stepney 08 8132 5400

Enhanced Lifestyles Welland 08 8340 2000

Equipt To Thrive Mawson Lakes 0401 742 077

Everyday Independence 1300 179 131

Family Time Australia Payneham 08 7221 2322

Fleurieu Psychology Services Christies Beach 08 8326 4354

45460

Life Without Barriers SA Unley 08 8193 9400

Nutrition on Eyre Whyalla Playford 0412 881 281

48253

45260 Living Skills for Life Whyalla Stuart 0455 501 543

Note 1 47942 Thrive Health Centre Port Pirie 08 8632 1100

Tobruk Centre for Children’s Development Port Lincoln 08 8683 4488

Providers servicing Fleurieu Peninsula region

Assured Home Care Mile End South 08 8374 2444

Clare Sutcliffe Victor Harbor 0415 252 776

Community Living Options Victor Harbor 08 7221 9550

Community Living Project Christies Beach 08 8384 7866

Daisy Hills Services  Victor Harbor 0458 767 755

Different Drum: Counselling, Disability, Arts Hindmarsh Island 0431 455 043

Exercise Physiology South Victor Harbor 0455 335 655

Fleurieu Health and Dietetics Victor Harbor 0498 969 011

Fleurieu Nutrition Strathalbyn 0417 104 774

Fleurieu Psychology Services Christies Beach 08 8326 4354

Goolwa Community Centre Goolwa 08 8555 3941

Goolwa Physio Goolwa 08 8528 7650

JM Speech Pathologist Morphett Vale 0416 179 955

40516

44965

45027

45036

45037

45056

45054

45135

45116

44999

48191

48175

Time 2 Talk Mount Barker 08 8391 3336

Providers servicing Riverland region

Abilities Occupational Therapy Service Angaston 0457 448 643

Barkuma Adelaide 08 8414 7100

Belinda Haeft Occupational Therapist Angaston 0429 794 543

Community Bridging Services Adelaide 08 8224 2900

45430

45278

44918

44977

45142

45197 Life Without Barriers SA Unley 08 8193 9400

Stella Evolution Barmera 0427 157 803

Susan George Loxton 08 8584 5040

Thrive Health Centre Port Pirie 08 8632 1100

Providers servicing Yorke Peninsula region

Assured Home Care Mile End South 08 8374 2444

Baptist Care SA Wayville 08 8273 7190

Note 1 47942

42233

45480

40516

139 44965

47896

Accounts Plan Management 0411 092 888

AIIM Choices Cannington 1800 878 978

Alpha Plan Management alphandis.com.au 1300 290 602

Ann Wootton Ellenbrook 0468 365 749

Australian Community Care Services Welshpool 08 6186 0868

Australian Disability Support Services Cockburn 1800 943 718

Australian Foundation for Disability (Afford) 1800 233 673

Autism Association of Western Australia Shenton Park 08 9489 8900

Bladder and Bowel Health Program at Therapy Focus Bentley 1300 135 373

Boomaroo Plan Management boomarooplans.com.au 0492 853 012

Chatterbox Speech Pathology Stirling 0405 176 931

Choice Health & Wellbeing Group Wanneroo 08 6404 3652

Community Vision Kingsley 1800 968 754

Compass Care Group Osborne Park 08 9302 1402

173 61852

45553

63522

125 63603

128-129 50419

50 47606

37369

62012

47741

184 63625

47637

100 63039

Osborne Park 0478 630 313

My Plan Manager 1800 861 272

My Supports Midland 08 9274 7575

NDSP Plan Managers 1800 636 377

New Hope Therapy Counselling & Mediation Baldivis 0407 900 973

One Central Health Tuart Hill 08 9344 1318

People with Disabilities WA West Perth 08 9420 7279

Perth Healthcare and Support Enterprise Carramar 0418 750 524

Perth Surgical Shoemakers & Wembley Shoes Wembley 08 9387 5507

Plan and Grow Wangara 08 6444 9682

Precious Disability Services Lynwood 08 6278 3188

Right at Home RightCare 07 3054 1360

Right at Home WA 1300 363 802

Skillbuilders Therapy Services and Products for Children Cockburn Central 08 9417 4903

Sonic Learning North Perth 1300 135 334

St Jude’s Disability Services Kewdale 08 9279 4343

Sugarman Australia Perth 08 9381 4343

Teem Treasure Morley 0418 867 728

The Centre for Applied Behaviour Analysis Cannington 1800 800 560

The Therapy Space WA Nedlands 08 9272 1424

Therapy Focus Bentley 1300 135 373

63628

176, 183, OBC 40502

42883

48287

47697

47819

47807

47810

63421

61 22069

• • 61 63499

48024

43529

47816

60209

47859

45494

55020

Providers servicing North West region

Key Assets The Children’s Services Stirling 08 9207 5900

Life Without Barriers WA lwb.org.au Leederville 08 9208 3428

Providers servicing Perth region

ABC Speech Pathology Brabham 0433 100 561

Access Foundation WA Girrawheen 08 9250 8735

Access Foundation WA Gosnells 08 9250 8735

Accessability WA Narrogin 08 9881 4557

Activ Foundation Wembley 08 9387 0555

Alison Self Yokine 0407 895 622

Alkira Care Services Maylands 1300 193 339

Alpha Carers Australia Northbridge 08 6161 8225

Arise Services 08 6209 2891

Autism Alliance Malaga 08 9249 2063

Behavioural

47889

54930

57786

47746

97, 121, 153 47584

IFC 63602

54897

47589

47591

55327

95 63616

47605

HCA Home WA Osborne Park 1300 422 111

Health In Motion Rehabilitation Greenmount 0402 836 749

Healthy Strides Foundation Carlisle 08 6109 2938

HelpingMinds Perth 08 9427 7100

In Balance Physiotherapy & Fitness Northam 08 9622 5335

Inclusion WA Osborne Park 08 9201 8900

9381 0600

Interchange WA Maddington 08 9329 9399

Kern Health Mandurah 1300 122 155

Key Assets The Children’s Services Stirling 08 9207 5900

Kids in Motion Physiotherapy Mount Hawthorn 0484 708 941

Kites Children’s Therapy Victoria Park 08 9311 8222

Life Live It Mt Hawthorn 08 9201 0705

Life Without Barriers WA lwb.org.au Leederville 08 9208 3428

Lighthouse Health Group WA South Perth 08 9362 5483

55021

60494

47714

47715

47720

54963

49486

47737

122, 123 63464

47743

47746

47749

Loveridge Occupational Therapy Services Kalamunda 0419 629 329

MGM HealthCare Perth Parkwood 0499 890 017

47764

47752 Mental Health and Wellbeing Armadale 0433 644 294

63519

47775 MSWA Wilson 1300 097 989

Mosaic Community Care Jandakot 08 9314 8900

47779 My Place Subiaco 08 6380 2927

40501 Neurolink Physiotherapy Busselton 08 9448 8239

47674 Next Challenge Osborne Park 08 9201 0707

47790 Nulsen Disability Services Cannington 08 6253 4700

Southern

Step Ahead OT Dianella 0410 651 755

The Charles Street Clinic North Perth 08 9443 5630

The Health & Fitness Centre Wangara 08 9409 3033

The Perth Brain Centre Attadale 08 6500 3277

Unique Support Services Wanneroo 08 6400 1198

Uniting WA Perth 1300 663 298

Unparalleled Solutions Wanneroo 0420 667 476

47620

47864

47865

55024

47882

Equipment & Technology

Equipment & Technology

Case study

An improved workspace, together with benefits of a power wheelchair, has greatly improved Neil’s everyday life.

After first being a customer of Indigo (then the Independent Living Centre) in 2009 when he purchased a manual wheelchair, Neil returned ten years later when he became eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Neil met Indigo’s Occupational Therapist Lead, Evana, and they embarked on his assistive technology journey.

Working with Neil, Evana was able to assist in supporting him to re-engage with his community and have improved accessibility within his home.

A reconfigured office with height adjustable desks and a dedicated workspace, a height adjustable, powered wheelchair and a portable shower commode mean Neil can now

About Equipment & Technology

You can use the wide range of equipment and technology that is available to help you with tasks you wouldn’t normally be able to do, or to make them easier and safer for you to do them.

These devices or systems can give you confidence with everyday living by assisting with mobility, communication and personal care. They may also reduce the need for assistance from another person and in some cases, may prevent or slow the development of further impairment.

Common equipment such as handrails or bathroom chairs can be purchased ‘off the shelf’ while others, such as a prosthesis, can be tailored specifically for your needs. Technology can also be used to make life easier by modifying devices and appliances, such as vehicles and beds, to make them easier to access or operate.

As technology is ever changing, it is worthwhile checking in to see what new products could benefit you.

On the following pages we explain what different Equipment & Technology options there are and how they can help you. You’ll find a list of providers servicing Central & Western Australia in the Equipment & Technology directory starting on page 191.

be more active out and about in the community and do work that brings him great satisfaction.

“I love what I do, and I love doing it in my updated office,” Neil says.

“I enjoy sourcing parts and refurbishing computers for seniors, so they have a serviceable device without a lot of cost.

“I also enjoy cooking and now that I’m able to adjust the height of my wheelchair, I can make sure oil doesn’t splash in my face.

“The power wheelchair has also given me back the use of my left hand, as it has lessened the effects of my carpal tunnel.”

Neil says he liked working with Indigo to achieve these changes, in particular being asked what his aims were, his concerns and what was most important to him.

“After several years independently sourcing and self-funding a range of

assistive technology, I was amazed at the difference this NDIS funding has made, together with the input of an occupational therapist. I am so glad I had the opportunity to work with Evana.”

Visit www.indigosolutions.org.au or email help@indigosolutions.org.au to find out more about Indigo’s services. Case study provided by Indigo

Neil at his new workstation, in his new power wheelchair.

Photo: Supplied

Assistive technology

Assistive technology is any device, system or design used to help you perform functions that you find difficult.

If you have a physical or intellectual disability, assistive technologies can be critical in allowing you to communicate, participate in everyday tasks and achieve independence. These technologies can also benefit your support network such as your family members, carers, teachers, employers and members of the community. Assistive technologies can also be referred to as inclusive or adaptive technologies and range from manual and electronic devices.

These devices and products do not have to be costly or high-tech. Some examples of assistive technologies include automatic door openers, touch screens, adaptive video game controllers, ramps and vehicle modifications. For example, assistive technology can help someone who is vision impaired read through the use of audio devices or adaptive utensils may allow someone with limited motor skills to eat independently.

To ensure you are getting the right assistive technology for you, it is important to seek advice from a health professional or assistive technology specialist to help understand your goals and abilities, current environment, the location in which you will use your assistive technology and the features and options that may benefit you.

They can also help arrange the delivery of your product, assist in set-up, show you how to use the technology, answer any questions you have and provide ongoing support.

Providers that offer assistive technology in your area are listed in the directory tables starting on page 191.

Communication equipment

If you have difficulties communicating, there are different types of equipment that can help. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) are communication methods used to support or replace speech. These methods can be unaided, non- electronic or electronic.

Unaided communication includes the use of hand signals and gestures, body language and touch cues.

Non-electronic communication is the use of written words, symbols, spelling and pictures to communicate. Some examples include a communication board or book. A communication board is a grid with two or more symbols that allows others to interpret what you are trying to communicate through pointing. These symbols can include pictorial objects, photographs, drawings, alphabet symbols or words.

Similarly, a communication book also works on ‘pointing’ in order to convey a message. The books can have a range of categories inside which help with expression, such as people, emotions and food.

Electronic equipment is another great way to assist with communication. Recorded speech devices work off recorded messages, which you select with a switch or button. Speech Generating Devices (SGDs) are used to create messages to be spoken out loud.

Equipment & Technology

Equipment & Technology

Specialised keyboards allow you to type a message containing letter, word or picture symbols. Voice amplifiers use a microphone near the person’s mouth or voice box.

It is important to consider your individual needs, cost, ease of use and options when deciding on the communication equipment that is best suited to you. Ask a communication specialist for personalised advice before making any decisions.

If you need communication equipment, turn to page 191 to find providers near you.

Continence products

One in four Australians experience bladder and/or bowel control problems, so incontinence is a common issue that you can get help to manage.

There are a lot of products available these days that can help with managing continence. Products come in a wide range of sizes and styles and can either be discreetly hidden under whatever clothing you feel comfortable wearing or as covers on beds and chairs.

The types of products you might be able to use include:

⃝ Disposable or reusable pads, underwear and pants

⃝ Mattress, quilt and chair protectors

⃝ Catheters

⃝ Absorbent swimwear

For continence related free and confidential information or advice you can contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066, or talk to your NDIS contact about continence supports available.

You can find providers that offer a range of continence products in the directory tables starting on page 191.

Educational toys

For a child with disability, special needs toys can help with skill building and learning. These educational products can help manage fidgeting, develop fine or gross motor skills, handwriting and reading, hand function and interpersonal play.

Sensory toys are particularly helpful for children with autism spectrum disorder or other sensory difficulties as they help children remain calm and focus their attention. Some sensory toy examples include water or sand tables, finger paint and light up toys.

Cause and effect toys help your child develop visual motor and grasping skills by allowing them to ‘cause’ a reaction. These types of toys develop hand-eye coordination, repetitive actions and sensory exploration which is helpful for children with autism. Some common cause and effect toys include water squirters and pop up or light up toys.

Puzzles provide many developmental benefits including improved cognitive function, strategy and decision making. Fidget toys can help children with ADD or ADHD. These toys promote concentration and self regul ation while decreasing stress. Some examples include play dough, sensory cushions or stress balls.

Children with oral motor difficulties can benefit from oral motor toys such as bubbles, chewable jewellery and chewy tubes. Educational picture books also help children with disability understand common societal concepts and acceptable ways to behave.

Turn to page 191 to discover where you can find educational toys for your child.

Healthcare products

You may find that you need some help with personal care tasks such as washing or showering, dressing and maintaining your personal hygiene. There are products and equipment available that can help make these everyday tasks easier.

Personal hygiene products include disposable or washable incontinence products, feeding bibs, modified hair combs and wound dressings. Medical equipment, such as syringes and enteral feeding products are also available to those who need it.

You can speak to your doctor or specialist about which healthcare products are available to help your personal hygiene.

You’ll find providers that offer healthcare products in the directory starting on page 191.

Home modifications

Making some adjustments around the home by changing the layout, having special fittings installed or bringing in specialist equipment could make everyday life and activities easier for you.

These home modifications could include big changes like widening doorways for wheelchair access or lowering benches in the kitchen, or they could be as simple as installing a handrail or hiring or buying a lifting chair or a special bed.

If you’re looking into home modifications go to the Equipment & Technology directory starting on page 191 for a list of providers.

Mobility equipment

If you have limited mobility or are unable to use standard forms of transport you may want to look at mobility equipment to help you get around.

There are special scooters and bikes available, as well as motorised or manual wheelchairs, and special bicycles and tricycles for both children and adults, to help you get out and about within your community.

Go to the directory starting on page 191 to find mobility equipment providers near you.

Vehicle modifications

Having your own transport to get around increases your independence, and there are a range of vehicle modification options you can look into to make accessing and driving your car easier and more comfortable.

Modifications range from making it easier to get in and out of the car, moving pedals so you can operate them with your preferred leg or specialised controls allowing you to turn the steering wheel more easily. Other adjustments could be installing a lift to place your wheelchair into the vehicle or allowing space for your wheelchair to be positioned in place of the driver’s seat.

To find providers that can help with vehicle modifications turn to page 191.

Equipment & Technology

Independence Australia 1300 788 855

Keep Moving  Alice Springs 08 8947 5122

Liberator 08 8211 7766

Lumin 1300 336 038

MGM Healthcare NT Muirhead 08 7979 2746

49352

5 63777

61131

40426

53638

63520

61133 Noble Healthcare 1800 780 699

Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation Nhulunbuy 08 8939 1900

63421 Rehab Technology 1300 609 950

40599 Stepping Stones in Life Therapy Service Millner 08 8985 6067

8200

Independence Australia 1300 788 855

Liberator Adelaide 08 8211 7766

Precious Disability Services 08 6278 3188

Rehabilitation Equipment Services Park Holme 08 8276 2613

116, 150 47941

102 45519 Cara Hindmarsh 08 8347 4588

5 63777

40426

63421

45403

Respirico Healthcare Salisbury Plain 08 8250 4804

195, IBC 61866

195, IBC 48338 Respirico ScooterWorld Holden Hill 08 8367 8317

Respirico ScooterWorld Welland 08 8245 1111

195, IBC 61343

195, IBC 45429 Respirico ScooterWorld West Lakes Shore 08 8250 4804

Providers servicing Clare Valley region

Abilities Occupational Therapy Service

Angaston 0457 448 643

OT Country Care Willaston 0427 455 004

Play Partners Clare 0400 487 965

Thrive Health Centre

Port Pirie 08 8632 1100

Your Foot Doctor Nuriootpa 08 8562 1700

Providers

AS Building

Elizabeth Anne Sarre

Karen Cresshull

Life AbilOT Health Services

Port Lincoln 0402 218 619

Port Augusta 0429 095 972

Whyalla 0408 189 188

Port Lincoln 0419 812 069

Respirico ScooterWorld Whyalla 1800 208 826

Thrive Health Centre

Providers

Clare Sutcliffe

Port Pirie 08 8632 1100

servicing Fleurieu Peninsula region

Country Health Connect

Daisy Hills Services

On the Go Physio

Victor Harbor 0415 252 776

Mount Barker 1800 944 912

Victor Harbor 0458 767 755

Murray Bridge 0429 030 871

Time 2 Talk Mount Barker 08 8391 3336

Clive Munzberg Port Pirie 08 8633 1789

Elizabeth Anne Sarre

Port Augusta 0429 095 972

Joy to Independency Port Pirie 08 8633 0500

Karen Cresshull Whyalla 0408 189 188

44918

45246

45380

40516

48465

55625

45316

45218

45460

195, IBC 61867

40516

45027

45023

45056

48299

48283

45316

48231

Abenra Construction

Applecross 0403 484

AC Mobility Malaga 08 9209 1777

Acorn Stairlifts 1800 127 851

Ann Wootton

Ellenbrook 0468 365 749

Australian Mobility Equipment Malaga 08 9249 7483

Australian Physiotherapy Equipment Balcatta 1300 799

AWB Building Co Burswood 08 9472 9449

Blue Force

Braude Architects

Break the Boundary

Tuart Hill 1300 731 716

Bassendean 08 9274 5569

Paulls Valley 0424 748 453

Brighter Healthcare High Wycombe 08 6162 0792

BrightSky Australia 1300 886 601

Chatterbox Speech Pathology

Down Under Auto Services

Easy Access Lifts

Stirling 0405 176 931

Wangara 08 9303 4881

Malaga 08 9244 8148

Emprise Mobility Bibra Lake 08 6555 4222

European Bedding

Freedom Scooters

Geoffrey Kaye

Cottesloe 08 9384 0388

Morley 08 9375 3755

Dianella 0411 476 888

Guardian Safety Pendants Warwick 08 6336 9448

HospEquip WA

Canning Vale 08 9456 1661

45553

48670

47588

40119

47618

48795

54916

192, 196, 199 40123

47741

47898

53369

54935

47668

47681

55244

40484

Healthy

Intelligent

Kids in Motion Physiotherapy

Kites Children’s Therapy

Life Live It

Mount Hawthorn 0484 708 941

Victoria Park 08 9311 8222

Mt Hawthorn 08 9201 0705

MSWA Wilson 1300 097 989

National Trade Supplier

Duncraig East 0410 205 480

Occupational Therapy Services Group Leeming 08 9332 1783

Paediatric Nursing Services

Procare Podiatric Medicine and Surgery

Rural and Regional Therapy Services (RAR Therapy)

Second Skin

Select Bathroom Renovations

Shoprider

Step Ahead OT

TLC Unlimited

Inglewood 0451 808 158

Bayswater 08 9200 5825

1800 734 466

Osborne Park 08 9201 9455

Riverton 0414 429 939

Malaga 08 9248 4180

Dianella 0410 651 755

Belmont 08 9277 2988

TLC-WA Therapy Joondalup 08 9301 1154

Vision Australia West Leederville 08 6246 4505

Vital Occupational Therapy Duncraig 0431 693 137

WA Assett the Bathroom Renovators Subiaco 08 9473 1800

WA Surgical Bootmakers Tuart Hill 08 6153 3335

Warnbro Pharmacy

54963

47737

122, 123 63464

47743

47779

47784

47702

47802

54995

126 44714

47836

55005

40641

47639

47876

47874

47885

60933

55337

55518

Mental Health

Mental Health

Case study

Thelma’s mental health journey began when she experienced a personal breakdown due to childhood traumas.

At the time, her husband was her biggest support, however in 2019, when she joined Skylight Murraylands, their lives were turned upside down.

Her husband was diagnosed with dementia and her son was diagnosed with schizophrenia, only a few months apart from each other.

This meant that although Thelma was still experiencing her own ill mental health she went from being the person who was being cared for to the carer to both her husband and son.

From the moment she began at Skylight Murraylands, Thelma says she felt “welcomed and safe”.

About Mental Health

Approximately one in five Australians will experience difficulties with their mental health at some stage during their life. Some mental health conditions can have a long-term effect on your ability to function in everyday activities.

Mental health illness refers to a group of conditions such as schizophrenia, psychosis, anxiety, depression and eating disorders, among others. People living with mental health conditions may also experience poverty, isolation, unemployment, homelessness, poor physical health and discrimination.

It is important to know not every mental health issue is considered a disability but if the effects are long lasting or permanent then you may receive support through disability funding.

On the following pages we explain what different mental health support options there are and how they can help you.

“The staff and participants were all very supportive and friendly. This made my new journey an easier one as I suffer terribly with anxiety,” she says.

“During my time with Skylight, I have received excellent care and support through 1:1 psychosocial support and activities. I feel like I have gained confidence to navigate my life again.”

Thelma adds that through Skylight she has met new people, which has led to her feeling less isolated and more able to socialize.

“I have become connected with other services, which has lightened my load and taught me that it is okay to take time for myself and that I am important. I have learned that I don’t have to be responsible for everybody else’s problem and in recognizing that I have improved my own mental

health and feel the strongest I have felt in a long time,” she says.

She wants to “use this strength to move forward” and is preparing to take up a volunteering role at the local Foodbank.

“I wish to use my new confidence and growth to join the community and make a difference in other people’s lives,” Thelma says.

Case study provided by Skylight

Thelma has regained the confidence she needs to participate in the community. Photo: Supplied

Mental health support

Living with a disability and the challenges you face on a day-to-day basis can affect your mental health. Dealing with physical limitations that may also affect your ability to work can lead to financial stress, depression or anxiety. Not being able to take part in social activities due to disability has also been known to lead to feelings of isolation and depression.

It is important to look after your mental health, as well as your physical health. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression or stress there are helplines, support groups and professionals who can help you by listening to your story, allowing you to share your experience and learn from others and supporting you to manage and improve your mental health.

Helplines

If you need to speak to someone, have someone listen or be supported through a difficult time, helplines are a good general point of contact. They are often open to anyone, with some helplines designated to servicing and supporting people with specific needs.

Helplines are often run by non-Government organisations and can help by providing information and advice to you and your family and carers. They’ll allow you to remain anonymous if you choose and can also refer you to find other support services if needed.

Some helplines operate 24/7, whereas others are open within business hours only. You can find a broad range of mental health support options, including helplines, information and resources on the Head to Health website, created by the Department of Health. Visit headtohealth.gov.au to find out more.

Mental health nurses

Mental health nurses are specifically trained to plan and provide support, while giving you medical and nursing care. Mental health nurses help educate you and your family about your mental illness, provide counselling and strategies to help you come to terms with your condition, assist with medications and management of symptoms, link you with other health professionals, help with Centrelink services, housing and community programs and offer support while following your road to recovery.

You will find these nurses providing their valuable services and care in the community, in hospital mental health units, psychiatric hospitals and in nursing homes.

Psychologists

A mental health psychologist is there to identify and treat mental health and emotional issues that may be affecting your life.

This trained health practitioner is not a medical doctor and therefore cannot prescribe medications. Instead they can help you understand and resolve your problems, make changes in your behaviour and in doing so, improve your quality of life and mental health.

Psychologists do this through observation, assessment and experimentation to identify what will best suit each individual recovering from a mental health condition.

You don’t need a referral from your GP to see a psychologist however a management plan from your GP may assist with covering some of the cost through Medicare.

Turn to page 205 to find psychologists practicing in your area.

Mental Health

Mental Health

Psychiatrists

Like a psychologist, a psychiatrist will also identify and treat mental health and emotional issues that may be affecting your life, but because they are a trained doctor, they are able to prescribe medications to help treat you.

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat people with mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, addiction, bipolar and eating disorders.

To do this they develop a management plan, provide lifestyle advice, seek second opinions from other health professionals, provide referrals and work alongside you, your partner, family or carers to help you understand your symptoms and treatments.

Your treatment plan may include medication, psychological treatment and brain stimulation therapies, such as electroconvulsive therapy.

To see a psychiatrist you will generally need a referral from your GP.

Psychosocial support

Psychosocial support is a non-medicinal treatment used to treat people with mental illness, meaning it doesn’t use medication. Instead it works by altering the person’s behaviours and relationships with society. Education is key to the success of psychosocial support.

The two main types of interventions include cognitive and behavioural therapy.

Cognitive therapy focuses on a person’s thoughts about themselves, their environment and their role in society. By changing negative internal dialogue to positive, the person can live a happy, healthy life. Some methods of cognitive therapy include individual counselling and group therapy with people with similar areas of difficulty.

Behavioural therapy is used to teach a person the skills needed to alter their behaviour. This helps people become more comfortable in social situations and overcome feelings of inadequacy or isolation.

To find psychosocial support near you go to page 205.

Social workers

Social workers make up the greatest percentage among mental health professionals. A social worker can support you on both a personal and social level to help improve your wellbeing. They will help you cope with problems in your everyday life by making recommendations and help you work towards positive outcomes.

Social workers possess high levels of compassion and empathy as well as good listening and problem solving skills.

They have an extensive knowledge of human behaviour and development. Social workers fight for social justice and equality of people in need. Within the mental health sector, they provide individual, family and couples therapy. You will find social workers in private practices and mental health units.

Social workers play an important role in identifying those in need, assessing needs, implementing an action plan, helping people adjust, connecting people to resources and support, responding to crisis and maintaining a caring relationship throughout the person’s recovery.

A list of social workers can be found in the directory starting on page 205.

44083 CM Fitness & Health 0422 039 741

Connect and Relate for Autism 1300 737 124

Connected Children 0431 986 709

CoordiKids 0415 316 239

Dementia Australia 1800 100 500

41465

48805

61719 Enable Ability 1300 521 541

Early Start Australia 1300 372 439

61661 Essential Disability Care Services

63045 Therapy Alliance Group 1300 661 945

44825 TK Community Care Services Winnellie 08 8931 3224

Unique Care and Accommodation 0481 054 899

Providers servicing Alice Springs region Carers NT Darwin 08 8944 4888

43015

40726 Your Side 1300 134 332

44420

47985 NPY Women’s Council Alice Springs 08 8958 2345

Incompro Aboriginal Association 08 7324 5072

44112 NT Friendship & Support Katherine 08 8971 0027

Oz Trampoline Sales 1300 393 004

Providers servicing Darwin region

Carers NT Darwin 08 8944 4888

40541

57752

Dignity Plus Palmerston 0468 491 102

HCA Home SA 1300 422 111

HelpingMinds 08 9427 7100

NextSense 1300 581 391

NT Friendship & Support Katherine 08 8971 0027

46439

57762 ermha365 03 9706 7388

44420

47698

43388

Daisy Hills Services  Victor Harbor 0458 767 755

Hessel Group Fullarton 08 8462 0222

80, 114 45324

45163 I Can Jump Puddles Netley 08 7085 3999

Holiday Explorers Beulah Park 08 8331 2399

4354

Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au Unley 08 8193 9400

My Care Solution

Campbelltown 08 8331 9922

Caring SA Ingle Farm 0450 041 420

HYPE Aged & Disability Services Hillbank 0499 413 902

Karen Cresshull Whyalla 0408 189 188

Kudos Services Unley 08 8348 6500

Life Without Barriers SA lwb.org.au

Unley 08 8193 9400

Providers servicing Kangaroo Island region

Daisy Hills Services

Victor Harbor 0458 767 755

60939

117 45117 Kudos Services Unley 08 8348 6500

45260

83 63629

63627

45218

60939

45260

Access Foundation

Access

Auscare Community

6364 3917

Australian Community Care Services Welshpool 08 6186 0868

Australian Disability Support Services Cockburn 1800 943 718

Australian Foundation for Disability (Afford) 1800 233 673

Australian Trauma Centre

Kalamunda 00 0000 0000

Autism Association of Western Australia Shenton Park 08 9489 8900

Choice Health & Wellbeing Group Wanneroo 08 6404 3652

Community Vision Kingsley 1800 968 754

Compass Care Group

Osborne Park 08 9302 1402

Down Syndrome WA Cannington 08 6253 4752

Early Start Australia Nedlands 1300 372 439

47602

63522

125 63603

128-129 50419

40097

50 47606

184 63625

47637

100 63039

54929

servicing Perth region

Access Foundation WA Girrawheen 08 9250 8735

Access Foundation WA

Accessability WA

Gosnells 08 9250 8735

Narrogin 08 9881 4557

Arise Services 08 6209 2891

Behavioural Solutions

Chung Wah CC NDIS Services

City of Swan Community Care Services

Dreamcare Support

Beeliar 08 6119 9155

Northbridge 08 9328 3988

Midland 08 9267 9055

Ridgewood 0459 241 211

Everyday Independence 1300 179 131

Family Support WA

Wanneroo 08 9206 3400

Focused Supports Rockingham 08 6262 3001

HelpingMinds Perth 08 9427 7100

Kites Children’s Therapy

Life Without Barriers WA lwb.org.au

Milan Therapeutic Services

Victoria Park 08 9311 8222

Leederville 08 9208 3428

Mundaring 0488 186 603

O2 Active (exercise physiology) Mosman Park 0411 642 152

Paediatric Nursing Services

Inglewood 0451 808 158

IFC 54895

IFC 63602

54897

95 63616

47614

94 48477

47631

99 63557

40263

47673

96 55330

47698

122, 123 63464

47746

47648

124 63482

47802

• 61 38327 Rockingham Autism Services Rockingham 0478 640 655

Right at Home Perth Midland Midland 08 6146 0085

47826 Rocky Bay Mosman Park 08 6282 1900

47827 Rural and Regional Therapy Services (RAR Therapy) 1800 734 466

126 44714 TLC-WA Therapy Joondalup 08 9301 1154

47874 Uniting WA Perth 1300 663 298

resources

Definitions and often used terms

When going through all the information provided to you, you may come across some words you have not heard before or you are unsure of what they mean. We’ve put together a list of ‘definitions and often used terms’ where we explain the meaning of these words.

Access requirements – Criteria that need to be met for someone to become a participant in the NDIS. Read more on page 19

Accessible – A place that is able to be reached, entered or used by every individual, including those with disability, for example by elevator, ramp or chair lift.

Advocacy – A person or organisation that acts as your voice and supports your rights. Advocates campaign and speak up for social change, inclusion, equal rights and opportunity.

Agency managed – One of the management options available where the budget in your plan is looked after by the NDIA. Also see ‘Plan managed’ and ‘Self managed’. Read more about plan management options on page 38.

Assistive technology – A product, device or equipment that helps maintain, increase or improve your skills and functional abilities.

Capacity building support – Funding for therapies and services that will help you build your skills and independence. Also see ‘Capital support’ and ‘Core support’.

Capital support – Funding for aids and equipment to allow you to live independently or help your carer to support you. This can also include funding for specialist accommodation. Also see ‘Capacity building support’ and ‘Core support’.

Carer – Someone who looks after a person with disability. This can be a family member or a paid helper.

Carers statement – A document describing the care provided by an informal carer to a loved one to ensure the person with disability receives appropriate support in their NDIS plan.

Core support – Funding for supports that will help you go about your daily life. Also see ‘Capacity building support’ and ‘Capital support’.

Developmental delay – When a child develops at a slower rate than other children of the same age and doesn’t reach milestones at the expected times.

Diagnosis – The identification of a disease, disorder, condition or disability following assessments, tests and discussion about symptoms.

Disability – A physical, mental, cognitive or developmental condition that limits a person’s ability to engage or take part in everyday activities or interactions. The condition is permanent or likely to be permanent.

Eligibility – Whether a person is able to receive support through the NDIS.

Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) – Supports available under NDIS for children under the age of seven years to help reduce the effects of a disability, improve their skills and limit the need for assistance in later life. Find out more on page 20.

Formal support – When you pay someone to help you with activities like going to the shops, helping you shower or preparing a meal. You may find these people through an agency or your service provider sends these people to help you.

Funding – Supports paid for under the NDIS. These supports are documented in a person’s plan and must meet your goals and needs.

Government funded – Money or funds for supports made available by the State/Territory or Federal Government. Informal support – Help you’re receiving from family, friends and social networks with activities like cooking meals, going shopping or driving you to appointments. You don’t pay these people to help you.

Intervention support – A combination of the different supports available to help maintain or improve your independence and participation within your community.

Local Area Coordinators (LAC) – Local community organisations that have partnered with the NDIA to help participants access and manage the NDIS. Read more on

Modifications – Changes made to an environment, product or equipment to make it easier to use or access to help increase your independence.

National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) – The independent Government agency that looks after the funding and coordination of the NDIS.

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – Government run program that helps support people living with disability or early intervention needs, to meet their individual needs, reach personal goals, participate in the community and increase their independence.

Participant – Someone who has been approved to receive supports through the NDIS.

Participant statement – a document describing the goals and aspirations you want to achieve with the help of the NDIS.

Plan – A document detailing the individual needs and goals of a participant and the types of supports that will be funded under the NDIS to help meet those goals.

Plan implementation – Organising the supports and funding within your NDIS plan so it works for you.

Plan managed – One of the management options available where a plan manager handles your NDIS plan and will look after the payment of services and products. Also see ‘Agency managed’ and ‘Self managed’. Read more about plan management options on page 38

Plan manager – A professional who can help you get the most out of your NDIS funding by handling the paperwork and payments associated with your supports.

Plan review – Meeting with your LAC or NDIA representative to review your plan, measure your progress against your goals and discuss what supports are or aren’t working as well as explore and set new goals for your next plan.

Planning meeting – Meeting with a LAC or NDIA representative to discuss your needs and goals that will form the basis of a plan of supports.

Provider – A person or organisation that delivers services to people living with disability. Also see ‘Registered provider’. Registered provider – A person or organisation that has registered with the NDIS and meets certain criteria to provide a product or service to participants of the NDIS. Also see ‘Provider’. Respite – A break from your usual living or caring environment. This could be at a day centre, within the community, at someone else’s home or in home support.

Scheme – Another word for program. Used as a shortened term to refer to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Self managed – One of the management options available where you organise supports and payments to providers yourself. Also see ‘Agency managed’ and ‘Plan managed’. Read more about plan management options on page 38 Service agreement – A contract between you and your provider detailing the types of services and supports that will be delivered.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) – Funding towards the cost of purpose built or specialist designed housing. Available under the ‘Capital supports group’ to some high support needs NDIS participants.

Supported Independent Living (SIL) – A living situation in which you receive support from paid staff with everyday tasks to help you develop or maintain the skills to live independently.

Unregistered provider – A person or organisation that has chosen not to register with the NDIS and does not need to adhere to NDIA guidelines and pricing. Also see ‘Provider’.

RRMS

SDA....................

SLES School Leaver Employment Support

SPD

SPMS Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis

VB-MAPP

Behaviour Milestones Assessment and Placement Program

WWDA Women With Disabilities Australia

How to read the directory tables

State or Territory

In the back half of this guide you’ll find six sections covering In Home & Community Support, Therapists & Specialists, Accommodation, Advisors, Equipment & Technology and Mental Health. These sections provide useful information about some of the most commonly searched support services as well as directory tables of a selection of providers delivering different services.

The tables list a number of ‘verified’ providers. These providers have confirmed with DPS that the information that is displayed is correct.

Providers are listed by service region. They’ll be listed under ‘Providers servicing all of in each State and Territory’ if no region was selected or they service the whole State/Territory. See the maps in the Resources section for the boundaries of each service region.

The lists include both registered and unregistered NDIS providers in alphabetical order, detailing whether they provide Core, Capital or Capacity supports under the NDIS. It also indicates some of the specific services they deliver.

The tables show if the provider can come to your house or school to deliver services or works from a set location such as a medical practice. It also indicates what age groups they can deliver services to.

A bold listing, with or without a website, indicates the provider has paid to have their services listed in this guide. If a service provider has an advertisement in this Guide, then the page number of the advert is listed in red under ‘Advertisement Page’.

The ‘DSG Web ID’ number can be used as a unique identifier to find out more information about the provider on DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au. You can enter the ID number into the search toolbar on the home page to view the full profile and range of services of the provider.

For a complete overview of providers and services registered for in each State and Territory visit DisabilitySupportGuide.com.au/topics/ndis-providers

resources

National

National useful phone numbers and websites

Australian Disability Enterprises

Australian Federation of Disability Organisations (AFDO)

1300 043 517 buyability.org.au

1800 219 969 afdo.org.au

Autism Connect - Amaze 1300 308 699 amaze.org.au

Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 beyondblue.org.au

Blind Citizens Australia 1800 033 660 bca.org.au

Brain Injury Australia 1800 272 461 braininjuryaustralia.org.au

Carer Gateway 1800 422 737 carergateway.gov.au

Deafness Forum of Australia 02 6262 7808 deafnessforum.org.au

Department of Health 1800 020 103 health.gov.au

Department of Social Services 1300 653 227 dss.gov.au

Disability Employment Services (DES) 1800 464 800 jobaccess.gov.au

Disability Gateway 1800 643 787 disabilitygateway.gov.au

Federation of Ethnic Communities’  Councils of Australia (FECCA) 02 6282 5755 fecca.org.au

First People’s Disability Network 02 9267 4195 fpdn.org.au

Headspace .................................................................................................. 1800 650 890 headspace.org.au

Inclusion Australia 1300 312 343 inclusionaustralia.org.au

LGBTIQ+ Health Australia 02 7209 6301 lgbtiqhealth.org.au

Lifeline 13 11 14 lifeline.org.au

MyGov 13 23 07 my.gov.au

National Continence Helpline 1800 330 066 continence.org.au

National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 dementia.org.au/helpline

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) 1800 800 110 ndis.gov.au

National Equipment Database 1300 885 886 askned.com.au

NDIS Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) 1800 228 333 aat.gov.au

National Ethnic Disability Alliance 02 6262 6867 neda.org.au

National Relay Service

Voice Relay number

1300 555 727

TTY number 133 677

SMS relay number 0423 677 767 communications.gov.au/accesshub/nrs

NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission 1800 035 544 ndiscommission.gov.au

People with Disability Australia 1800 422 015 pwd.org.au

Relationships Australia 1300 364 277 relationships.org.au

SANE Australia 1800 187 263 sane.org

Services Australia Information Service 13 24 68 servicesaustralia.gov.au

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia 1800 819 775 scia.org.au

Translating and Interpreting Service 13 14 50 tisnational.gov.au

Everyday care you can count on

We’re a national provider of disability services and we’re there for the people we support every day.

Everything we do, we do to make a real, meaningful difference for the people we support and the quality of their everyday lives.

It’s called care – and that’s what our people are all about.

Call 1800 634 748 or visit

lifestylesolutions.org.au

Lifestyle Solutions is a registered NDIS service provider.

resources

Northern Territory

Northern Territory NDIS partner information

The organisations listed below have been engaged by the NDIS to assist with Early Childhood Early Intervention and Local Area Coordination in the Northern Territory.

Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Partners – These early childhood partners in the community provide advice, assistance and support to children up to the age of seven who have a disability or developmental delay.

Local Area Coordinators (LAC) – LACs are local organisations that help you with your NDIS journey. They provide information about the NDIS, hold planning/review meetings and can connect you with local services and activities.

NDIS managed areas – For many people entering the NDIS, the LAC will be their main point of contact for the NDIS. In areas not serviced by a LAC partner, the NDIS will work with you directly to connect you to supports in your area.

Service Area Council

Greater Darwin Darwin Litchfield Palmerston

All other areas not supported by a NDIS partner

ECEI partner

Early Childhood Australia 1800 959 995 ecant@ndis.gov.au

LAC partner

APM 1300 276 522 lac@apm.net.au

NDIS NDIS 1800 800 110 1800 800 110

Northern Territory useful phone numbers and websites

Autism NT 08 8948 4424 autismnt.org.au

Carers NT 1800 422 737 carersnt.asn.au

Companion Card (NT) ....................................................................... 08 8948 5400 ntcompanioncard.org.au

Darwin Community Legal Service............................................... 1800 812 953 dcls.org.au

Darwin Public Trustee 08 8999 7271 nt.gov.au/law/processes/about-public-trustee

Department of Education 08 8999 5659 education.nt.gov.au

Department of Health NT 08 8999 2400 health.nt.gov.au

Disability Sports NT 0436 407 445 sportsnt.org.au

Down Syndrome Association of NT 08 8985 6222 downsyndroment.com.au

GROW NT 08 8912 2220 grow.org.au

Guide Dogs NT 1800 757 738 sant.guidedogs.com.au

Integrated Disability Action ......................................................... 08 8948 5400 idainc.org.au

National Disability Services NT ..................................................... 08 8941 0634 nds.org.au

Northern Territory Mental Health Line 1800 682 288 nt.gov.au/wellbeing/mental-health

Office of Disability

08 8999 2809 tfhc.nt.gov.au/social-inclusion-and-interpreting-services/ office-of-disability

Office of the Public Guardian 1800 810 979 publicguardian.nt.gov.au

Riding for the Disabled NT 08 8931 0093 rdatopend.org.au

Women’s Council 08 8958 2345 npywc.org.au

Northern Territory area map

This map provides you with a geographical reference to the service regions in the Northern Territory. To help you find providers that offer services near you, we have sorted the directory tables into a number of regions. You can use the map below to work out which region covers the area you live in. Providers that have indicated they look after all of Northern Territory or those that did not specify a region with DPS are listed under ‘Providers servicing all of Northern Territory’. If a provider services one or multiple regions but not all, they will be listed in each of the applicable regions.

resources South Australia

South Australia NDIS partner information

The organisations listed below have been engaged by the NDIS to assist with Early Childhood Early Intervention and Local Area Coordination in South Australia.

Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Partners – These early childhood partners in the community provide advice, assistance and support to children up to the age of seven who have a disability or developmental delay.

Local Area Coordinators (LAC) – LACs are local organisations that help you with your NDIS journey. They provide information about the NDIS, hold planning/review meetings and can connect you with local services and activities.

NDIS managed areas – For many people entering the NDIS, the LAC will be their main point of contact for the NDIS. In areas not serviced by a LAC partner, the NDIS will work with you directly to connect you to supports in your area.

Service Area Council

Adelaide Hills Adelaide Hills Mount Barker

Barossa Light and Lower North Adelaide Plains

Barossa Gawler Light

ECEI partner

KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

Eastern Adelaide Adelaide Prospect KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

LAC partner

Mission Australia 08 8183 7170 lac.missionaustralia.mountbarker@ndis.gov.au

Feros Care 1300 986 970 feroslac@ndis.gov.au

Baptcare 1800 960 595 baptcare.sa@ndis.gov.au Burnside St Peters Campbelltown Unley Norwood Walkerville Payneham

Eyre, Western and Far North Flinders Ranges

Port Augusta Whyalla

Fleurieu Alexandrina

Victor Harbor Yankalilla

KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

Limestone Coast Grant Robe KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

Kingston Tatiara Mount Gambier Wattle Range Naracoorte and Lucindale

Murray and Mallee Berri and Barmera Renmark Paringa KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

Karoonda East The Coorong Murray Loxton Waikerie

Mid Murray & Murray Bridge

Mission Australia 1800 931 543 lac.missionaustralia.ewfnsa@ndis.gov.au

Mission Australia 1800 931 543 lac.missionaustralia.victorharbor@ndis.gov.au

Mission Australia 08 8714 7900 laclimestonecoast@ndis.gov.au

Mission Australia 1800 931 543 lac.missionaustralia.murraymallee@ndis.gov.au

South Australia area map

This map provides you with a geographical reference to the service regions in South Australia.

To help you find providers that offer services near you, we have sorted the directory tables into a number of regions. You can use the map below to work out which region covers the area you live in.

Providers that have indicated they look after all of South Australia or those that did not specify a region with DPS are listed under ‘Providers servicing all of South Australia’. If a provider services one or multiple regions but not all, they will be listed in each of the applicable regions.

Service Area Council

Northern Adelaide Enfield

Playford Port Adelaide Salisbury Tea Tree Gully

ECEI partner LAC partner

KUDOS Services

1800 931 190

ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

Southern Adelaide Holdfast Bay KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

Marion Mitcham Onkaparinga

Western Adelaide Charles Sturt West Torrens

KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

Feros Care 1300 986 970 feroslac@ndis.gov.au

Mission Australia 1800 931 543 Clovelly Park - lacclovellypark@ndis.gov.au Noarlunga - lacnoarlunga@ndis.gov.au

Baptcare 1800 960 595 baptcare.sa@ndis.gov.au

Clare and Gilbert Valleys Peterborough

Yorke and Mid North Barunga West Orroroo/Carrieton KUDOS Services 1800 931 190 ecei.southaustralia@ndis.gov.au

Copper Coast Port Pirie City and Districts

All other areas not supported by a NDIS partner

Baptcare 1800 960 595 baptcare.sa@ndis.gov.au

Yorke Peninsula Goyder Mount Remarkable Northern Areas

Wakefield

NDIS 1800 800 110

NDIS 1800 800 110

South Australia useful phone numbers and websites

ADASA

08 8272 8111 adasa.asn.au

Australasian Society For Intellectual Disability .................. 1800 644 741 asid.asn.au

Autism Association of SA 1300 288 476 autismsa.org.au

Brain Injury SA 08 8217 7600 braininjurysa.org.au

Carers SA 1800 422 737 carerssa.com.au

Citizen Advocacy SA ............................................................................ 08 8410 6644 citizenadvocacysa.com.au

Companion Card 1800 667 110 sa.gov.au/topics/care-and-support/disability/companion-card

Department for Education 1800 088 158 education.sa.gov.au

Disability Advocacy and Complaints Service of SA 08 7122 6030 dacssa.org.au

Disability SA Information and Referrals ................................... 1300 786 117

Disability Rights Advocacy Service 08 8351 9500 dras.com.au

Down Syndrome SA 0467 818 424 downsyndrome.org.au/sa

GROW SA 08 8298 9299 grow.org.au/sa

Guide Dogs SA NT 08 8203 8333 sant.guidedogs.com.au

Housing SA 13 12 99 housing.sa.gov.au

Independent Advocacy SA ..............................................................1800 999 884 independentadvocacysa.org.au

Mind South Australia 1300 286 463 mindaustralia.org.au/services/south-australia

Multiple Sclerosis Society of SA & NT Inc 08 7002 6500 ms.asn.au

National Disability Services SA 08 8154 3700 nds.org.au

Office of the Public Advocate ........................................................1800 066 969 opa.sa.gov.au Polio SA 0466 893 402 poliosa.org.au

Public Trustee 08 8226 9200 publictrustee.sa.gov.au

Riding for the Disabled SA 08 8377 3150 rdasa.org.au SA Health ....................................................................................................08 8226 6000 sahealth.sa.gov.au

Service SA 13 10 84 service.sa.gov.au

South Australian Council on Intellectual Disability 08 8352 4416 sacid.org.au

Special Education Resource Unit (SERU) 08 8235 2871 seru.sa.edu.au

resources

Western Australia

Western Australia NDIS partner information

The organisations listed below have been engaged by the NDIS to assist with Early Childhood Early Intervention and Local Area Coordination in Western Australia.

Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Partners – These early childhood partners in the community provide advice, assistance and support to children up to the age of seven who have a disability or developmental delay.

Local Area Coordinators (LAC) – LACs are local organisations that help you with your NDIS journey. They provide information about the NDIS, hold planning/review meetings and can connect you with local services and activities.

NDIS managed areas – For many people entering the NDIS, the LAC will be their main point of contact for the NDIS. In areas not serviced by a LAC partner, the NDIS will work with you directly to connect you to supports in your area.

Service Area Council

ECEI partner

Central North Metro Cambridge Peppermint Grove Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

Claremont Perth Cottesloe Stirling Mosman Park Subiaco

Nedlands Vincent

Central South Metro Cockburn Kwinana Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

East Fremantle Melville Fremantle South Perth

Great Southern Albany Jerramungup Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

Katanning Kent Broomehill-Tambellup Kojonup Cranbrook Plantagenet Denmark Woodanilling Gnowangerup

Inner Wheatbelt Chittering Toodyay Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

Gingin York Northam

LAC partner

Mission Australia 1800 370 776 laccentralnorth@missionaustralia.com.au

APM 1300 276 522 lac@apm.net.au

APM 1300 276 522 lac@apm.net.au

APM 1300 276 522 lac@apm.net.au

Bayswater Mundaring

North East Metro Bassendean Kalamunda Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

North Metro Joondalup Wanneroo Swan Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

South East Metro Belmont Canning Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

Mission Australia 1800 370 776 lacnortheastmetro@missionaustralia.com.au

APM 1300 276 522 lac@apm.net.au

Mission Australia 1800 370 776 lacsoutheastmetro@missionaustralia.com.au Gosnells Victoria Park

South Metro Armadale Murray Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

APM 1300 276 522 lac@apm.net.au Mandurah Rockingham

Western Australia area map

This map provides you with a geographical reference to the service regions in Western Australia. To help you find providers that offer services near you, we have sorted the directory tables into a number of regions. You can use the map below to work out which region covers the area you live in. Providers that have indicated they look after all of Western Australia or those that did not specify a region with DPS are listed under ‘Providers servicing all of Western Australia’. If a provider services one or multiple regions but not all, they will be listed in each of the applicable regions.

WA resources continued

Service Area Council

South West

All other areas not supported by a NDIS partner

Access Plus WA Deaf Inc

ECEI partner LAC partner

Augusta-Margaret River Dardanup Wanslea 1300 969 645 ndis@wanslea.org.au

Boyup Brook Donnybrook-Balingup

Bridgetown-Greenbushes Harvey

Bunbury Manjimup

Busselton Nannup

Capel Waroona

Collie

accessplus.org.au

Advocacy WA ...........................................................................................08 9721 6444 advocacywa.org.au

Autism Association of WA 08 9489 8900 autism.org.au

Carers WA 1300 227 377 carerswa.asn.au

Catholic Archdiocese of Perth Personal Advocacy Service 08 9275 5388 paswa.org.au

Citizen Advocacy Perth West 08 9445 9991 citizenadvocacy.org.au

Companion Card 1800 617 337 wacompanioncard.org.au

Department of Education 08 9264 4111 education.wa.edu.au

Disability Services Commission 08 9426 9200 disability.wa.gov.au

Down Syndrome WA 08 6253 4752 downsyndrome.org.au/wa

Kin (formerly Ethnic Disability Advocacy Centre) 08 9388 7455 kinadvocacy.org.au

Guide Dogs WA 08 9311 8202 guidedogswa.com.au

Individual Disability Advocacy Service 1300 648 655 sscls.asn.au/Programs-Services/ Individual-Disability-Advocacy-Service-(IDAS)

Midland Information Debt & Legal Advice Service 08 9250 2123 midlas.org.au

NDIS 1800 800 110

Multiple Sclerosis WA

APM 1300 276 522 lac@apm.net.au

NDIS 1800 800 110

1300 097 989 mswa.org.au

Muscular Dystrophy WA 08 9380 3400 mdwa.org.au

National Disability Services WA 08 9242 5544 nds.org.au

Office of the Public Advocate 1300 858 455 publicadvocate.wa.gov.au

People with Disabilities WA 08 9420 7279 pwdwa.org

Public Trustee WA 1300 746 116 publictrustee.wa.gov.au

School of Special Educational Needs: Behaviour and engagement 08 9402 6200 Disability 08 9402 6185 Medical and Mental Health Services 08 6456 0383 Sensory 08 9402 6409 Vision Education Service 08 9426 7122

Spinal WA 1800 819 775 spinalwa.org

VisAbility

.....................................................................................................08 9311 8202 visability.com.au

Western Australia Association for Mental health 08 6246 3000 waamh.org.au

Youth Disability Advocacy Network 08 6102 8440 www.ydan.com.au

Abbreviations 213

Accommodation 127

Emergency 131

Long term 132

Provider directory 135-156

Respite 132

Shared living 133

Short term 133

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) 133

Supported independent living 134

Tenancy 134

Advocates 47

Age groups 12

Adults 18 64 years 14

Kids 5 12 years 13

Preschool 0 4 years 12

Seniors 65+ years 15

Teenagers 13 17 years 14

Advisors 157

Provider directory 164-184

Appeals 27

Apply NDIS how to 19

Assessments 160

Provider directory 164-184

Assistive technology 187

Provider directory 191-200

Australia’s Disability Strategy 8

Behavioural support 104

Provider directory 110-126

Capacity building support 33

Capital support 32

Carers 48

Counselling services 48

Financial support 43, 48

Respite care 48

Support groups 48

Support lines 48

Case coordinators 160

Provider directory 164-184

Checklist 28-29

Communication equipment 187

Provider directory 191-200

Community access & inclusion 52

Provider directory 62-100

Companion Card 43 Core support 31

Definitions and often used terms 212-213

Dietitians 104

Provider directory 110-126

Domestic assistance 52

Provider directory 62-100

Early Intervention 21, 105

Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) 20, 21

Early childhood partners 20,21

Journey 22

Provider directory 110-126

Education 44, 160

Schooling options 44

Provider directory 164-184

Educational toys 188

Provider directory 191-200

Eligibility 19

Employment 45

Australian Disability Enterprises 45

Employment continued

Disability Employment Services (DES) 45

Employment support 161

Provider directory 164-184 School Leaver Employment Supports 45 Volunteering 45 Equipment & Technology 185

Provider directory 191-200 Financial 43 Carer payments 48

Companion card 43 Disability Support Pension 43 JobSeeker Payment 43

Provider directory 164-184 Services 161 Support 43 Youth Disability Supplement 43

Flow chart Start your NDIS journey here 9

Formal supports 7

Healthcare products 189

Provider directory 191-200 Home maintenance and gardening 53

Provider directory 62-100

Home modifications 189

Provider directory 191-200

Housing 131 Provider directory 135-156

In Home & Community Support 49

Provider directory 62-100

Informal supports 7

Intellectual disabilities 10

Intervention support 162

Provider directory 164-184 Life skills 53

Provider directory 62-100 Local Area Coordinators (LACs) 20 Meals 56

Provider directory 62-100 Mental Health 11, 201 Helplines 203

Mental health nurses 203 Mental health support 203 Provider directory 205-211 Psychologists 203 Psychiatrists 204 Psychosocial support 204 Social workers 204

Mobility equipment 189 Provider directory 191-200 Multicultural support 53

National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) 18 Managed areas 20

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) 18 Accessing 18 Eligibility 19 How to apply 19 Objectives 18 Partners of 20 Pricing 41

Understanding 18 What support can I get 30

National Standards for Disability Services 8

Nutritionists 104

Provider directory 110-126

Occupational therapists 105

Provider directory 110-126

Often used terms and definitions 212-213 Paediatricians 105 Provider directory 110-126 Personal care 56 Provider directory 62-100 Physical disabilities 10 Physiotherapists 108 Provider directory 110-126 Plan management 38 Agency managed 38 Combination managed 40 Plan managed 39 Self managed 39 Plan managers 162

Provider directory 164-184

Plan review 26

Planning meeting 23

Checklist 28-29

During your meeting 25

First plan 26

Preparing for 23 What to bring 24

Pricing 41

Psychologists 108

Provider directory 110-126 Registered providers 41 Respite 56

Provider directory 62-100 Sensory disabilities 11 Service agreement 42

Shared living 133 Provider directory 135-156 Shopping 56 Provider directory 62-100 Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) 133 Provider directory 135-156 Speech therapists 109 Provider directory 110-126 Sports, social and recreational support 60 Provider directory 62-100 Support coordinators 163

Provider directory 164-184

Supported independent living 134 Provider directory 135-156 Tenancy 134

Provider directory 135-156

Therapeutic supports 109

Provider directory 110-126 Therapists & Specialists 101

Provider directory 110-126 Training/workshops 109

Provider directory 110-126

Transport 46, 60

Accessible transport 46

Alternatives 47 Community transport 47 Provider directory 62-100 Public transport 46 Travel and holidays 60

Unregistered providers 41 Vehicle modifications 189 Provider directory 191-200