For anyone involved in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), this is a big week. From Thursday (3 October) key changes introduced by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will take effect.
The changes will cover all aspects of the scheme, including a new definition for NDIS supports. It will also clarify what types of purchases can be made with NDIS funding. This follows claims of the system being rorted by various unscrupulous providers.
Despite the flagged amendments, NDIS CEO Rebecca Falkingham has assured participants that the scheme’s central tenet will remain unchanged.
In a statement released on 16 September, Ms Falkingham said: “I know for some people change can cause uncertainty, so we want to keep you informed about the changes and what they mean for you. I want to reassure you that for most people, not much will change about the way you experience the NDIS now.”
What changes will be made to the NDIS?
The changes to the scheme will be made in stages. The first of those will take effect this week, and will revolve around the definition of ‘NDIS supports’.
According to Ms Falkingham , the “definition makes it clear what NDIS funding can and can’t be spent on. This change will affect all participants.”
Ms Falkingham said the rule will not only outline items that qualify as NDIS supports, but also those that don’t. “The new rule will also include things you can’t use your NDIS funding for,” she stated. “We will finalise the definition and rule after consulting with the community.”
In her September statement Ms Falkingham also said: “We will tell you [NDIS participants] in an email when the new rule has been made, before it starts on 3 October 2024.” However, it is unclear whether this email has yet been delivered. YourLifeChoices has contacted the NDIS seeking clarification, and has requested a copy of the email.
What is seemingly clear is that NDIS funding will be able to be spent only on things defined as NDIS supports.
Notwithstanding that directive, Ms Falkingham’s statement appears to leave the door ajar for potential exceptions to the rule. “In some circumstances you might be able to ask to use your funding for a support that is not an NDIS support,” she said. “We will share more information about this in coming weeks.”
Will your funding be affected?
Participants who have their plan reviewed after the new rules come into effect will be provided with a newly formatted NDIS plan. While current plans show line by line supports, the new plans will be shown as a budget.
“If your plan is reviewed after 3 October 2024, your new plan will have a total budget amount,” Ms Falkingham said. “This means you’ll see a total amount for all supports in your plan.”
New plans will be issued for a 12-month period, although the NDIA has not ruled out the introduction of longer-term plans at a later stage.
Are you an NDIS participant? Have you received an email regarding this week’s rule changes? Let us know via the comments section below.
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Disclaimer: This article contains general information about health issues and is not advice. For health advice, consult your medical practitioner.
