People with disabilities, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), can access the NDIS for support and services. ASD is the most common disability for which the NDIS provides funding. In this article, we’ll discuss the kind of assistance that the NDIS offers, and how people with ASD can get it.
ASD and NDIS eligibility
The first stage in your NDIS mission is to assess whether or not you are eligible for the program. When it comes to ASD, this is especially significant because there are multiple levels, and the NDIS will need to examine your support needs to decide if you are qualified for an NDIS plan.
The NDIS requires evidence of the effects of autism on various areas of life, such as communication, dexterity, socialisation, learning, self-care, and self-management. You may be able to share written or documented evidence with the NDIA if you see an occupational therapist, psychotherapist, or other medical practitioners.
You are immediately considered qualified if you have a level 2 or 3 ASD. However, having supporting evidence on hand to discuss with your LAC or the NDIA if necessary, is always a good idea.
For participation in the NDIS, you must:
- Be between the ages of 7 and 65 (when first accessing the scheme).
- Have citizenship in Australia, residency in Australia, and/or a permanent visa
- Have a permanent disability
You can fill out an Access Request Form if you meet the NDIS criteria.
*Early Childhood Early Intervention services are still available to children under seven (ECEI).
What can the NDIS help with?
Each NDIS plan is tailored to the individual who will benefit from it. To help identify the types of paid supports that may be included within your plan, the NDIS will take into account your support needs and goals, and their reasonable and necessary criteria.
Always keep in mind that evidence is key for the NDIS. To ensure that your NDIS plan funding represents your needs, come prepared for any planning or plan review sessions with supporting evidence.
ECEI and autistic children
Children with autism under 7 years of age can apply for funding through the ECEI, which like the NDIS, aims to provide people with ASD with the necessary support.
ECEI has the ability to:
- For a child with a developmental delay or disability, provide early intervention.
- Improve capacity to do the things one wants or needs to do.
- Increase engagement and inclusion in general and community settings such as childcare and recreation.
- Improve the confidence and capacity of the guardian to regulate and respond to the child’s support requirements.
- Connect families with disability support in Sydney, such as therapy and parent support groups.
You can learn more about ECEI by contacting your local ECEI partner.
Who can assist you?
If you’re having trouble preparing for your NDIS meeting, talk to your family, friends, or a disability provider like Ebenezer Mission. Providers can also accompany you to meetings to help you explain what services you require and how your ASD influences your day-to-day life.
To learn more about the process, speak with your LAC or ECEI Partner.
In your meeting and leading up to it, it’s always advisable to take notes, gather evidence, jot down any difficulties you have, your goals and ambitions, and what assistance you need to live your life independently.
Contact Eben Mission for the best disability support in Sydney and for more information on how to make changes to your NDIS Plan.
Contact us by phone at 0478 831 731, online at www.ebenmission.org.au/, or via email at [email protected].
