If you’ve been looking into disability funding, you most likely would have heard about the NDIA and the NDIS. This article explains who the NDIA and NDIS are, how they are different, how each works, where you fit in, and how Pillar Support Coordination can assist you in navigating the NDIS system.
Who are the NDIS and NDIA?
Although the ‘NDIA’ and ‘NDIS’ acronyms sound similar, their meanings are different. NDIS refers to the ‘National Disability Insurance Scheme’, and NDIA refers to the ‘National Disability Insurance Agency’.
What is the difference between the NDIS and NDIA?
The NDIS was created via legislation by the Australian Government. It supports Australians with significant and permanent disability, as well as their families and carers. It is jointly governed and funded by the Australian Government and the participating state and territory governments.
The NDIA is an independent agency responsible for delivering the NDIS Australia-wide. They employ a range of staff to support people with disability and their families to plan for their lives and provide the funding to help this happen.
How do the NDIA and NDIS work?
The NDIS provides funding to people with permanent and significant disability. The NDIA makes decisions about whether someone is eligible to become an NDIS participant and, if so, how much funding they may receive.
How do I apply for the NDIS?
If you believe you are eligible for the NDIS, your first port of call would be to visit the NDIS website. On the site, you can download an Access Request Form (ARF) as well as a Supporting Evidence Form (SEF) here and work with your GP, allied health, and specialist medical professionals to prepare and provide the information required to submit these forms.
Once all the necessary information has been provided, the NDIA will make a decision and send you a letter known as the ‘access decision’ informing you of whether you have been found eligible or not.
What happens once you are eligible for the NDIS?
If you have received an ‘access decision’ letter with a positive result, the next step is to create your NDIS plan. Your NDIS plan outlines your goals, aspirations, and the supports you require (including any funding you might require).
How can Pillar help you?
If the above sounds complicated and confusing, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Navigating the NDIS system is tricky and overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. As Support Coordinators, we work alongside you and your support network to understand and maximise the possibilities of your NDIS plan. Our team of highly experienced NDIS Support Coordinators and Specialist Support Coordinators understand every individual has unique needs. We get to know you and your skills to help you identify what you want from support services and design solutions to help you achieve your goals. We help you access the right services for you, as well as explore options to help you live more independently while still feeling included in your community.
See how we helped Jeanie have a better NDIS experience here. Like Jeanie, we will help you every step of the way to ensure that you have the best NDIS experience possible.
