Understanding the Recent Changes to NDIS: What You Need to Know?

Are you aware of the changes in the NDIS? If not, here is the latest news for you- the Australian Government amended the national disability insurance scheme on 22 August 2024 in an attempt to improve the scheme for both providers and participants. These changes are expected to take effect in mid- or late September. If you or your loved one have a disability, you need to know about it. Here is what those changes are and how they will affect you.

Different pathways for accessing the NDIS (Section 21)

National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will now determine whether the applicant meets disability requirements, whether early intervention is needed, or both. This has been done to distinguish between the participants- those who have significant impairment and require permanent assistance and those who, by early intervention, may not require NDIS support. This separate pathway will affect both the participant and the provider, as participants will get a more streamlined process, and providers have to adjust the support that they offer to the participants.

Limitation on new access requests (Section 19)

If the applicant status is revoked and they request for a review, they can’t appeal again, until the review process gets completed. This change will make the review process more orderly and faster by preventing applicants from filing multiple appeals/reviews. Providers who give assistance to participants must tell them to wait for the review process before submitting another appeal.

Changes in early intervention requirements (Section 25)

According to this update, only an individual whose support falls within the NDIS scheme can get access to it. This will help participants know what support they will get from the NDIS scheme. On the other hand, providers should make it clear to participants that they will only receive support and services under the NDIS scheme.

Plan management adjustments (Section 44)

The new amendment will allow the NDIA to manage the plan of the participant. They can make changes to your plan if you, your nominee, or your plan manager are unlikely to spend your funds. Participants may see changes in the plans if NDIA finds issues with the management of the plan. Providers should also ensure they are compliant with the NDIS rules.

Support for impairments (Section 34)

Now, NDIA will provide support for only those impairments for which the applicant is qualified. NDIS funding will be directed towards the specific needs of the participant.

Include new funding amounts (Section 33)

According to the new amendment in NDIS, the plans will show total funding amounts, funding component amounts and funding periods (12 months). This change is done to help participants manage their funds more effectively.

Changes in variations (Section 47A)

The new amendment will enable participants to make changes to the existing plan without creating a new plan. This will provide participants with the flexibility to update certain parts of the plan without waiting for the review process.

Framework for claims and payments (Section 45A)

The changes introduced in the new bill have provided a framework for how claims should be made and within what frame one should submit them. This offers both participants and the providers clear guidelines for submitting the claims.

Conclusion

As these changes will come into effect within 25 to 28 days, participants and providers must prepare for these changes. You can find detailed information about these changes on the website of the Australian Government Department of Social Services. However, if you want to buy NDIS approved mobility equipment in Hunter Valley, get in touch with Hunter Appliances and Mobility. You will find everything from mobility wheelchairs and walking aids to mobility scooters and everything in between.

More information

The NDIA has published a summary of the changes, which can be viewed here.

https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10305-changes-ndis-legislation

NDIA CEO Statement https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10303-ceo-statement-getting-ndis-back-track-bill