About the NDIS

The NDIS was legislated in 2013 and the intent of the National Disability Insurance Scheme lies in its use of the word Insurance.

Insurance is about providing protection/support against certain outcomes and with the NDIS, it is about implementing appropriate supports and services for Australians with disabilities. The intent is proactive, allied support and services. The reality for many participants may be a different story but understanding the intent may help participants and their carers navigate the system.

The intent of the NDIS is embedded in the six NDIS Standards:

These Standards enshrine the individuality of each person with a disability whether they are self-managed NDIS participants or their funding and service delivery is managed through agencies.

The Scheme is developed around person-centred delivery which puts each participant at the centre of all the decision-making concerning their needs, goals and service delivery. The intent is not a “one-size-fits-all” approach but that each participant’s individual needs, goals and outcomes are clearly identified and that service and support delivery is implemented, measured, adjusted and reviewed for continual improvement.

As part of this person-centred approach, the NDIS prefers using the word ‘participant’ rather than client. Compare the process of a participant collaborating in the services and supports rather than a client receiving, not participating, in the choice of services and supports delivered.

When a participant receives their NDIS Plan, nowhere on the plan will you find their disabilities listed. The Plan outlines an individual’s goals and desired outcomes. These goals and needs rather than the disabilities guide the types of services and supports to be implemented. It is ironic that a disability scheme does not list disabilities however you have to admire the fascinating philosophical intent behind a multi-billion industry.

The Standards afford the participant the choice and control of all decisions involved in their care plan. If the participant is unable to communicate their needs, a carer/family member, representative, advocate is involved but the participant should always be supported to be part of all decision making where possible.

Whilst the NDIS has the best intentions, the reality of navigating the system can be over-whelming and difficult.

At Reach & Belong we will support you as best we can when working with the NDIS. If it is beyond our scope we will recommend a choice of support coordinators, plan managers and advocates to assist you.