ndis
in our society that contribute to
disability. That means a big part of
the NDIA’s job is to contribute to and
lead conversations about disability
in Australia. This was written into the
NDIS Act because by having these
conversations, all Australians can
help raise the level of awareness of
disability in our communities.
If you want more information
about the Scheme itself, we
recommend signing up to the NDIS
fortnightly eNewsletter at www.ndis.
gov.au/news/subscribe
I’ve heard some people have
received letters about advanced
payments. What is it all about?
In June and July 2016 some self-
managed participants experienced
Psychosocial disability:
guide for mental health providers
A
new guide developed jointly by the Australian
Government and Flinders University will support mental
health providers in making it easier for people with a
psychosocial disability to access the National Disability Insurance
Scheme (NDIS).
Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services, Jane
difficulties paying for supports Prentice, said community based mental health providers are at the front
when the new myplace portal line of helping their clients’ access the scheme.
was launched. These participants
“For people with significant disability, the NDIS can be life changing
received an advance payment to – givin g people the power to choose the support they need, when and
help them pay for their supports. where they need it,” Mrs Prentice said.
The NDIA now needs to acquit
these advance payments. If you are
affected by this you will be contacted
by phone and mail to explain how the
“Consultation with mental health providers has revealed a strong need
to assist people with a psychosocial disability through the NDIS process.
“The guide, Accessing the NDIS, provides practical advice based on
providers’ own experiences.
offsetting process will work. If your “The information helps simplify the NDIS requirements, such as
current plan has sufficient funds, we explaining how clients can test their eligibility and meet NDIS criteria.
will offset the advanced payment
within your current plan. If there is
insufficient funds in your current plan
“The guide was field tested with the mental health sector, consumers,
and carers to ensure it is helpful and easy to use.”
The Guide builds on work occurring in the National Disability
to cover the offset amount, we will Insurance Agency to improve pathways for people with psychosocial
work with you on a solution to ensure disability and work underway by the Productivity Commission and the
you aren’t disadvantaged, such as Joint Standing Committee on the NDIS.
offsetting the advance payment from
future plan payments.
To view Accessing the NDIS go to www.dss.gov.au/our-
responsibilities/mental-health/publications-articles
www.ndis.gov.au
linkonline.com.au
NDIS
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