What are NDIS supports?
Navigating the NDIS system for the first time can be overwhelming. You and the people who care for you, want to make sure the decisions you make help you to live your best life.
The NDIS provides funding to cover the costs of supports to you to reach your goals. Understanding the types of support budgets available will help you to get the most out of your NDIS plan.
What NDIS support categories are available?
A wide range of supports are available to you. You can choose the support category that is best for you and the types of supports that fit your circumstances. You may need help to attend an educational facility or to find a job, while others may need support to live independently. The NDIS has three broad categories of support and offers budgets that can be used in any of these categories.
What are NDIS core supports?
The budget for NDIS core supports is the most flexible. This means that you are allowed to use your funding to receive support in one category and if your circumstances change, then you can shift your funding to another support category. You are also allowed to reduce or increase the amount of support you receive if your situation changes.
Core supports include:
- consumables– these are divided into eight categories and include continence aids (e.g. disposable pads and pants), wound care products, nutritional products, products to protect your bed and chairs and equipment to help you with your mobility
- assistance with your daily life – having someone to help you around the house or with your personal care, taking part in physiotherapy, speech or occupational therapy sessions or having someone to help you if you are out in the community, at work or at an educational facility
- assistance to participate in activities – this may involve providing a support person to help you to take part in social and community activities or in an educational facility ((e.g. in a university or TAFE)
- transport –funds will be provided to pay for a taxi or other specialised transport services so that you can take part in community and other activities
What are NDIS capital supports?
NDIS capital supports have a big impact on your independence. Capital supports help you to pay for:
- specialist disability accommodation
- assistive technologies
- equipment such as a wheelchair and other mobility aids
- toilet and bathroom aids
- modifications to your home or car.
What are NDIS capacity building supports?
NDIS capacity building supports help you to build your skills and independence. This may involve helping you to:
- attend TAFE or university or other educational facilities
- access sessions with a physiotherapist, dietitian, speech or occupational therapist
- increase your participation in the community (e.g. by accessing specific community programs).
You can find more information about the types of supports that the NDIS funds in the price guides.
How Independence Australia can help you
Navigating the NDIS can sometimes be a little confusing. If you are not sure what is right for your individual situation, we have a number of options for you to get in touch with us at Independence Australia.
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