EBL_Newsletter_Winter_2020_DIGITAL | Page 12

Low Cost Assistive Technology The NDIS recently shared information about how they have temporarily broadened the flexible approach for low cost assistive technology (AT) items so participants can continue to receive NDIS funded supports and services during the COVID-19 pandemic. NDIS Updates What is the NDIS doing to help participants? Changes announced 12 June 2020 In keeping with national health advice, businesses and the community are beginning to ease restrictions and some temporary measures introduced by the NDIA in response to COVID-19 will also begin to return to normal. Following a review of temporary Participants can use their existing NDIS funding to purchase an item if it meets all of the criteria on the Assistive technology explained page on the NDIS website found here: bit.ly/ATexplained This will be in place until September 2020 and will be reviewed in July 2020. measures to support participants and disability providers during the pandemic, the following will apply from 1 July 2020: • removal of the temporary 10 per cent price loading on certain core and capacity building supports • the definition of short term cancellations reverts back to two business days. Providers will still be able to claim 100 per cent of Supports funded by the NDIS The NDIS will assist participants to live independently. This includes: • Supports that build people's capacity to live independently in the community, supports to improve living skills, money and household management, social and communication skills and behavioural management • Home modifications to the participant's own home or a private rental property and on a case-by-case basis in social housing • Support with personal care, such as assistance with showering and dressing • Help around the home where the participant is unable to undertake these tasks due to their disability, such as assistance with cleaning and laundry. To support this new time-limited policy the NDIS have made this information available in other formats including Easy Read and in animation. You can download a copy of the Easy Read here: www.ndis.gov.au/ media/2369/download or watch the animation here: https://bit.ly/ easyreadanimation the agreed support price for a cancellation at short notice, as introduced as part of the Annual Price Review • the Medium Term Accommodation (MTA) period will return to the original policy of 90 days (rolled back from 180 days). Source: www.ndis.gov.au/ coronavirus/participants-coronaviruscovid-19 The NDIS may also contribute to the cost of accommodation in situations where the participant has a need for specialised housing due to their disability. Source: www.ndis.gov.au/ participants/housing-andndis#supports-funded-by-housingand-other-systems Contact details t (08) 8252 1000 f (08) 8255 1066 w ebldisabilityservices.org.au e [email protected] EBL Disability Services Endeavour House, Module 5, 11 – 15 Fourth Avenue, Mawson Lakes SA 5095 12 EBL QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER