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Writer's pictureCurate Care

Navigating the NDIS: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Updated: Oct 16

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be overwhelming for first-time participants. This Beginners Guide to NDIS Australia simplifies the process, providing a clear pathway from registration to receiving support, and highlights how Curate Care can assist you on this journey.



Beginners Guide to NDIS Australia


Understanding the NDIS


The NDIS is a transformative initiative by the Australian government, designed to provide tailored support to individuals with disabilities. Its main goal is to ensure that you can actively participate in society and achieve your personal aspirations.


Key Features of the NDIS


Individualised Plans: Each participant receives a customised plan tailored to their unique needs and goals.

Funding: Participants receive funding based on their individual circumstances, which can be used for various services and supports.

Choice and Control: You have the freedom to decide how to use your funding, including selecting your service providers.


Eligibility and Application for NDIS


Who is Eligible?

To qualify for the NDIS, you must:

  • Reside in Australia and be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.

  • Be under 65 when you first enter the NDIS.

  • Have a permanent and significant disability that impacts your ability to participate in everyday activities.


How to Apply


Contact the NDIS: Reach out to request an access request form.

Gather Documentation: Collect evidence of your disability, such as reports from health professionals.

Submit Your Application: Complete the access request form and submit it along with your documentation.

Assessment: The NDIS will review your application and may contact you for further information or an assessment.





Beginners Guide to NDIS Australia: Creating Your NDIS Plan


Understanding Your Needs


Before your planning meeting, reflect on:

  • Your current support and who provides it.

  • Your goals and aspirations.

  • The types of support you believe will help you achieve these goals.


The Planning Meeting

During this meeting, an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator will discuss your needs and goals to help develop your plan. Be honest and detailed about what you require.


Using Your NDIS Plan

Once your plan is approved, you’ll receive funding in different categories, which you can manage in one of three ways:

  • NDIA Managed: The NDIA manages your funds and pays providers on your behalf.

  • Plan Managed: A plan manager is funded in your plan to handle payments to providers.

  • Self-Managed: You (or your nominee) directly manage the funds.


Choosing Service Providers


You have the freedom to choose service providers that best meet your needs.

Consider:

  • The types of services offered.

  • Qualifications and experience of the providers.

  • Their location and availability.


Curate Care’s Services in Perth


At Curate Care, we offer a variety of services to support you throughout your NDIS journey, including:

  • Support Coordination: Our dedicated NDIS Support Coordinators advocate for your rights and help you access the most suitable services.

  • Capacity Building & Training: We provide training in self-management and plan management, empowering you to manage your supports effectively.

  • Art Therapy: In partnership with Faire&Co, we offer vibrant art therapy sessions to foster self-expression and personal growth.

  • Innov Community Participation: We assist you in building meaningful connections within the community, enhancing your sense of belonging.

  • Assist-Personal Activities: Our respectful support workers help with daily tasks and social activities, empowering you to live independently.

  • Accommodation & Tenancy: We can help you find accomodation, enabling you choice and control over where you live.

  • Assist Access/Maintain Employ: We will help you to find meaningful employment and help you to maintain your position as necessary.

  • Assist-Travel/Transport: We can help you get from A to B!

  • Daily Tasks/Shared Living: Our support workers focus on developing and implementing the best skills suited to you enabling you to live independently.

  • Participate Community: Participate in the community and increase social skills. We will help you try out and discover new hobbies that may fit your personality, skills & enjoyment.

  • Household Tasks: This is where we can provide support to help you in the home with domestic tasks as necessary.

  • Development-Life Skills: At every stage of your life there are going to be times you will need some help to develop some new skills. Our dedicated team can help you with this. We get you and nothing is out of the box!


Plan Review

Your NDIS plan is regularly reviewed to ensure it meets your evolving needs. Prepare for your review by:

  • Assessing what’s working and what’s not.

  • Considering any changes in your life or goals.

  • Gathering new information about your support needs.


The NDIS is a powerful program designed to support individuals with disabilities in leading fulfilling lives. While navigating the NDIS for the first time can seem daunting, this Beginners Guide to NDIS Australia provides the foundational knowledge you need.



Beginners Guide to NDIS Australia


Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Curate Care is here to provide professional and respectful support every step of the way.


With our experienced team by your side, you can confidently navigate the NDIS and focus on achieving your goals and aspirations.


Reach out to Curate Care today, and let’s embark on this journey together!

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