Frequently Asked Questions
I have just received my NDIS plan, I don't understand any of it. What do I need to do now?
Seek advice and information from your LAC, Support Co-ordinator, or Service Provider. They can help you understand your plan and what supports and services you can utilise with your NDIS funding. They are also there to help you with understanding what is the responsibility of the services you can use and assist with connecting you with any other services, such as health, community and other government providers – all of whom are there to help you meet your needs and achieve your goals.
Will my NDIS plan help me pay for my food, rent and bills?
Your plan can assist you with everyday activities e.g cleaning and yard maintenance, cooking. NDIS may assist with the preparation of meals but cannot fund the purchase of food. NDIS may also assist with modifications within your home. Rent cannot be funded by NDIS however there are accommodation options available to some participants. NDIS also cannot fund paying of personal accounts. There are options to use your funding for some everyday items that you may need – for example incontinence products or low-cost assistive technology and equipment to improve your independence and mobility.
Why do I need to sign so many Service Agreements?
Each provider that you engage with is required to have an individualised service agreement to clearly state on how your services will be provided to you and the cost. They should include but not limited to:
- The support or service agreed upon
- The cost
- How, when and where you would like your support/service to be provided
- How long the support is required for
- How issues may be resolved
- Your responsibilities
- Cancellation policy
- The providers’ responsibilities
- How the agreement can be changed
What is a Support Coordinator?
A Support Coordinator can assist you with building the skills you need to use your plan to achieve your goals. A Support Coordinator will work with you to ensure you have an appropriate mix of supports to increase your capacity to maintain relationships, manage everyday tasks, engage in your community and to live independently. They will assist you with implementing your funds and negotiating with providers. They will support you to optimise your plan to ensure you are getting the most out of your funded supports.
Why do I need a support worker?
A support worker looks after the well-being of people in their daily lives. They assist people living with different physical disabilities and mental health needs to live their lives more independently and to enable them to reach their potential. They can provide physical and emotional support, supporting and helping with health care, encourage the development of personal skills, teach life skills and work with other providers to ensure that the highest standard of support is delivered.
How can I find out who my LAC is?
Your LAC’s contact should be noted on your plan. If this is not the case then a call to your Support Coordinator or the NDIS can be made. The LAC is often involved in the initial stages of your request for a plan.
How do I go through a plan review?
Your Support Coordinator will assist and support you through a Plan Review. This is an opportunity to check that all your supports and services are helping you to achieve your goals and that your NDIS funding will continue to work for you and to be adjusted if goals change. You will be contacted before your existing plan ends. It is helpful to have your Support Coordinator or other Support Services organise relevant paperwork such as OT assessments, GP reviews or reports from other service providers that you have been utilising.
How can I get in touch with services?
Your Support Coordinator can assist you to contact other services you may wish to connect with.
I believe my child/I am suitable for NDIS, what do information/proof do I need to apply?
NDIS has a list of criteria that is required to access NDIS funding. These include the following:
a. Under 65 years of age
b. Have Australian residency
c. Live in an area where NDIS is currently available
d. Need support from another person or use special equipment to complete everyday tasks – have a permanent and/or significant disability that stops you from doing everyday things by yourself. This includes episodic disabilities
e. Needing supports to reduce your support needs in the future.
What happens in an intake meeting?
Intake meets are a preliminary service to establish who you are and what you are wanting from a service like Smart Support. Intake will go through your rights, the service agreement and a specially designed support plan to ensure that ongoing services and supports are catered for your needs and requirements.
Who do I call to change my shift?
If at any time you need to change a shift please call our office on 03 5922 4510. Please note that if the cancellation is completed within 48hrs of the shift that a cancellation fee will apply.
Looking to get in touch?
For emergencies call 000 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department
2B Beaconsfield-Emerald Rd, Emerald Vic 3782
info@smart-support.org
'We Acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung as the traditional owners. We pay our Respects to our Elders past, present and emerging. We promise to take care of the land and the Waterways on which we reside. We Acknowledge the Culture and their truth and that Sovereignty was never ceded.'
"We see all people as important and ensure that our services are available for everyone including the LGBTIAQ+ community"
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NDIS Registration ID - 4050102407
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