New guide to navigate the NDIS

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).

The Hon Jane Prentice, Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services, said community based mental health providers are at the front line of helping their clients’ access the Scheme.

“For people with significant disability, the NDIS can be life changing – giving people the power to choose the support they need, when and where they need it,” Mrs Prentice said.

“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.

“The information helps simplify the NDIS requirements, such as explaining how clients can test their eligibility and meet NDIS criteria.

“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 Insurance Agency to improve pathways for people with psychosocial disability and work underway by the Productivity Commission and the Joint Standing Committee on the NDIS.

To view Accessing the NDIS go to https://www.dss.gov.au/our-responsibilities/mental-health/publications-articles