00:04 Welcome to the National Disability Insurance Scheme
00:07 This green man represents you.
00:13 When you are approved for NDIS support, you are called a participant.
00:23 This video will help you understand the path you will travel as the NDIS works with you.
00:30 What can I expect from the NDIS?
00:33 You will learn all about that in this video.
00:44 How does the NDIS work? Can I participate?
00:49 The NDIS is a new way of providing disability support.
00:55 It takes a lifetime approach, investing in people with disability.
01:07 Why will the NDIS support people with a disability?
01:12 To build skills and capability so they can participate in the community and employment.
01:28 Can anyone access the NDIS?
01:32 It depends on your age, where you live and disability.
01:40 Age?
01:42 You need to be under 65 years of age.
01:45 You also have to live in Australia and be an Australian citizen, or have paperwork to live here permanently.
01:55 Can anyone with a disability participate in the NDIS?
02:00 You must have a permanent disability that you will have for life
02:07 and the disability must impact how you manage everyday activities.
02:19 What do I need to do to access the NDIS?
02:23 Your first step once you access the NDIS is to create your first plan.
02:33 Your first plan is the start of a lifelong relationship with the NDIS.
02:40 It will make sure you have time to learn more about all of your options with the NDIS.
02:44 It will continue to give you the support you need now.
02:48 Your first plan will give you time to think about what you might need to help you achieve your goals
02:55 before you do your next plan.
03:00 What should I include in my first plan?
03:04 Include your goals and the supports that will help you achieve them.
03:14 How is the plan filled out?
03:19 You include the supports you need. Some of these may be informal such as family and friends.
03:31 I get some support from the Deaf community through the Deaf bushwalking group,
03:38 is that something I can put down?
03:40 Yes you can include support from people or groups in your community.
03:47 There are also mainstream supports and services you get from people like doctors and teachers.
03:52 The NDIS can fund supports that are reasonable and necessary.
04:04 How long does the first plan last?
04:07 Your first plan will be in place for 12 months.
04:13 Why only 12 months?
04:15 This will give you time to think about how those supports are working for you.
04:33 When does the plan start?
04:36 The plan starts once it is approved.
04:42 Who is in charge of the plan?
04:45 There are two options, the first being self-direction.
04:50 You have control over your supports and how they are provided, as well as payments to your providers.
04:56 Or you can have an organisation manage your plan for you.
05:08 So how would I go about booking an interpreter?
05:12 You need to decide which agency or interpreter you want to book with
05:20 and you can book and pay them directly.
05:25 You are able to change to a different agency, even if you have been with them for a long time.
05:33 Everyone can choose where their supports come from.
05:38 If I want to self-direct what do I have to do?
05:43 You will normally need to make a written agreement with your providers.
05:51 Where is my plan kept?
05:54 You can access your plan and other documents on the Participant Portal,
06:00 an online tool available through the myGov website.
06:06 So a lot of thought has to go into a plan.
06:11 Yes, think about your future goals and consider activities and ways of achieving them.
06:38 While everyone is different, you will generally have your first plan for 12 months.
06:46 At this time you will work with the NDIS to make any changes.
06:53 You make changes to the plan?
06:55 This is called a plan review.
06:59 This is where you meet with the NDIS and think about which supports are helping you and which are not.
07:05 So I need to think carefully before my review meeting?
07:11 Yes, you think about which supports are working well,
07:18 whether your access has improved and what gaps are still there.
07:23 Think about your interests and what you would like to change.
07:27 This is important because people's needs and interests change over time.
07:38 Write this down so that you are prepared for your plan review.
07:50 It really is important to plan before the review meeting.
07:54 Absolutely.
08:01 When does the NDIS end?
08:06 The NDIS will support you throughout your life for as long as you need it,
08:13 so this pathway will continue on, and you’ll update your plan as your needs change.
08:21 If you want more information it would be best have a look on the NDIS website, or give them a call.