The National Disability Insurance Service is being rolled out across Australia so it’s time to start getting ready now. Here are our Top 10 tips to help you prepare.
1. Start today
Your first NDIS planning meeting could be pivotal in your life. It’s time to start thinking about how you want to live your life and what you need to achieve your goals.
2. Think big
The NDIS will transform disability services and it’s for life. You can stop worrying about barriers in the past and start thinking about the big picture: what do you want to achieve in your life and how do you want to live it. Talk through your goals, aspirations and dreams with someone you trust.
3. Write a list or keep a diary
Think about your day-to-day reality: what are the barriers that make life harder than it could be? Start documenting them: write a diary, take photos or keep a list. This will provide examples you can use in your first planning meeting.
4. Be specific
The NDIS could be transformative – but it’s up to you to make sure you take advantage of it. Be specific about what you need and want, what your goals are and how you want to live. Write them down for discussion at your first meeting.
5. Learn the language
There’s a world of NDIS jargon out there and it’s a good idea to start getting your head around terms like funded supports, planners, centre-based service and support plan. This will help you to better understand the resources that are available and navigate the process. Check out the Every Australian Counts NDIS Dejargonater and for a full list see NDP’s glossary.
6. Research, research, research
Try to get as much information in advance – this way you’ll be better prepared to deal with any challenges and take full advantage of the opportunities of the NDIS. The Every Australian Counts website at www.everyaustraliancounts.com.au is a great place to start.
7. Get the paperwork done early
Fill in your planning workbook well before you go to your first meeting. It contains important questions about your life and your future. You can download the NDIA’s planning workbook on the Every Australian Counts website.
8. Don’t sweat the detail
The NDIS changes guarantee you all the reasonable and necessary support you need to help reach your goals in life. Stop worrying about the detail and start re-imagining your future.
9. Get all your documents ready
Before your first meeting get all the documentation you have together so you can streamline the process with your planner. Try to collate all your medical, education and health documents.
10. Take someone with you
You don’t have to go this process alone. Take along to your meeting people who know you well. That might be family, friends, support workers or advocates.
Extracted from the Every Australian Counts website at www.everyaustraliancounts.com.au, which has a wealth of information about maximising benefits from the NDIS.
