Navigating the NDIS: A comprehensive guide for parents

Published at 17-06-2024 13:45:00

Navigating the NDIS: A comprehensive guide for parents 

The NDIS can be a lifeline for families of children with disabilities, providing much needed support and services to help them in their development and enhance their overall quality of life. However, navigating the NDIS can sometimes be super overwhelming, especially at the beginning stages and when parents are still trying to find balance in their already busy lives. This guide today aims to help you as a parent, to understand the NDIS, how to access the right supports, as well as how to effectively manage your child’s NDIS plan!

Understanding the NDIS

The NDIS is a government-funded program designed to provide support for Australians with disabilities, their families, and carers. It aims to help individuals achieve their goals and participate fully in their communities. The NDIS provides funding for a range of supports and services, which are tailored to the individual’s needs and goals.

If you haven’t already, feel free to check out our article on What the NDIS means for family and carers to find out more about how the NDIS can help and support you.

Steps to accessing the NDIS 

1. Eligibility:

To access the NDIS, your child must meet the eligibility criteria. This includes being under the age of 65, having a permanent and significant disability, and being an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Special Category Visa holder.

2. Application Process

Start by completing an Access Request Form, which you can obtain from the NDIS website or by contacting the NDIS directly.

Gather supporting documentation, such as medical reports and assessments, to provide evidence of your child’s disability and its impact on their daily life.

Submit the completed form and documentation to the NDIS. The application process can take several weeks, so it’s important to start early and follow up if necessary.

3. Plan Meeting

Once your child’s application is approved, you’ll be invited to a planning meeting with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC). During this meeting, you’ll discuss your child’s needs, goals, and the supports required to achieve them.

Prepare for the meeting by thinking about your child’s current supports, what is working well, and any gaps or additional supports needed. Consider writing down your child’s goals and any questions you may have for the planner or LAC.

4. Developing the NDIS plan

Based on the planning meeting, the NDIS will create a personalized plan for your child. This plan outlines the supports and funding they will receive.

Review the plan carefully and ensure it covers all necessary supports. If you have any concerns or need adjustments, discuss them with your planner or LAC. It’s important to advocate for your child’s needs and ensure the plan aligns with their goals.

Managing your child’s NDIS plan

Implementing the plan:

Once the plan is approved, you can start accessing the supports and services outlined in the plan. You have the flexibility to choose your providers, whether they are NDIS-registered or non-registered providers.

Use the NDIS myplace portal to manage your child’s plan, track spending, and request plan reviews if needed. Familiarize yourself with the portal’s features to make the most of its tools.

Choosing providers:

Research and select providers that best meet your child’s needs. Consider factors such as experience, qualifications, location, and cost.

You can use a combination of registered and non-registered providers, depending on what suits your child’s requirements. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from other parents or support groups.

Monitoring Progress:

Regularly review your child’s progress towards their goals. Keep records of their achievements, any challenges encountered, and the effectiveness of the supports received.

Communicate with your providers and NDIS planner to ensure the supports remain relevant and effective. Schedule regular check-ins to discuss any adjustments that may be needed.

Plan reviews:

The NDIS plan is reviewed annually, but you can request a review sooner if your child’s needs change significantly.

During the review, discuss any changes needed in the supports and funding to better meet your child’s evolving needs. Be prepared to provide evidence and documentation to support your requests.

Tips for parents

Stay informed:

• Keep up-to-date with NDIS policies, guidelines, and any changes that may affect your child’s plan. Subscribe to NDIS newsletters, follow relevant social media channels, and join parent support groups. Attend NDIS workshops and information sessions to stay informed about new developments.

Advocate for your child:

• Be proactive in advocating for your child’s needs. Clearly communicate your child’s goals and the supports they require to achieve them.
• Don’t hesitate to seek second opinions or additional assessments if needed to support your child’s case. Document all interactions and decisions to have a clear record of your advocacy efforts.

Seek support:

• Connect with other parents and support networks to share experiences, advice, and resources. Organizations like Carers Australia and local disability advocacy groups can provide valuable support and guidance.
• Consider joining online forums or local parent groups to build a support network that understands the unique challenges of navigating the NDIS.

Use Plan Management services:

• Consider using NDIS plan management services to help with the administrative tasks of managing your child’s plan. Plan managers can handle invoicing, payments, and ensure compliance with NDIS guidelines, allowing you to focus more on your child’s well-being. Best of all, they are completely funded by the NDIS so there is no cost to you!
• A good plan manager can also provide insights and suggestions for maximizing your child’s funding and achieving their goals. Read more on How to find an NDIS plan manager
• Our team at Just Plan Managers are experts in plan management services, so feel free to reach out to us at any time to find out more about how we can help you!

In a nutshell

Navigating the NDIS can be challenging, but you are not alone. With the right knowledge and support, you can effectively manage your child’s plan and access the supports they need. Remember, you are your child’s best advocate. Stay informed, seek support, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. By working together with professionals and other parents, you can help your child achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. Reach out to your NDIS planner, local support organizations, and parent networks for assistance and guidance. With determination and the right strategies, you can make the most of the NDIS and ensure your child receives the best possible support.

Get in touch

If you have any questions, we’d love to help you out, call us on 1300 217 037 or email us at info@justplanmanagers.com.au and our friendly team will get back to you in no time.