NDIS
The NDIS provides individualised, direct support for people with disability. It is available to all Australians between ages 7 and 65 who have a permanent and significant disability. According to the NDIS, a permanent and significant disability means a disability that is likely to be lifelong and have a substantial impact on a person’s ability to do everyday activities.
The NDIS provides support to eligible people with intellectual, physical, sensory, cognitive and psychosocial disability. The NDIS is not a welfare system and does not give money to participants, rather it helps people get the support they need so their skills and independence improve over time. Support means a combination of assistance and/or products that help a person to complete everyday tasks, to work or participate in community, and reach their goals.
Why is this relevant to People Living with HIV who are 50+ (PLHIV50+)?
PLHIV50+ may be eligible for an NDIS package if they have a permanent and significant disability that impacts their day-to-day living.
For PLHIV50+ the disability may or may not be related to HIV – what is important is the disability itself, not the cause of the disability.
If you require day-to-day support with everyday tasks, including help from another person, special equipment, or modifications to your home, you may be eligible for an NDIS package.
Click here to read more information about NDIS
Applying for NDIS:
You will need to provide information about yourself to show you meet the eligibility requirements for the NDIS. You can also give permission for someone you trust to provide information on your behalf.
In addition to details such as name, address and residency status in Australia, you will also have to provide information and evidence about your disability and how it impacts you each day. This includes copies of letters or reports from your healthcare professional, such as a GP, nurse or allied health professional.
Click here to see if you are eligible for NDIS
Otherwise, if you already know that you are eligible, click here to read about how to apply
Who can help with your application?
The NDIS system is complex, so it is entirely normal to want support during the process.
Your GP or allied health professional may be able to help with your application, as they may have experience guiding others through the application. They may also be able to refer you to a number of services that can assist with this process.
Alfred Health is one provider that can provide guidance and support – click here to read more information.
Also, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence offers support to access the NDIS – click here to read more information.
How to manage and coordinate your NDIS plan?
Once you receive an NDIS plan, there are a range of services that you can access. To support you to understand your plan and choose the best services to achieve your goals, there are a number of registered NDIS providers that can assist you, including Thorne Harbour Health.
Thorne Harbour Health provides NDIS Support Coordination Services and direct support services to NDIS participants. They will work with you to understand your NDIS plan funding and select services that will best support you to reach your plan goals.