As the new streamlined NDIS list takes effect there is a call for clarity on what can, and cannot be funded, particularly when it comes to younger participants.
Children & Young People with Disability (CYDA) CEO Skye Kakoschke-Moore said with three in five NDIS participants aged 25 and under, these changes, “disproportionately impact younger generations”.
CYDA wants the government to commit to providing:
- definitive information on the ‘substitution’ process by which participants can request funding for unlisted supports
- transparent guidelines on debt recovery processes and clear avenues for appeal
- meaningful consultation on future changes to the NDIS rules
- clear definitions of what constitutes ‘evidence-based’ therapeutic support to avoid ambiguity in accessing necessary services.
While CYDA acknowledged positive aspects of the changes, such as explicit guidelines for employment supports, it was concerned about how the new rules will impact participant choice, control, and access to reasonable and necessary support.
“Some excluded supports that may be important include recreational, travel, and meal-purchasing disability-related supports that can play a critical role in therapy to assist with social inclusion,” she said.
Survey on foundational supports
CYDA is running a survey for people to share:
- What they need from Foundational Supports
- What they want them to include
- Their level of understanding of Foundational Supports
- How they want the government to consult with them.
The results will be shared with the government to ensure future supports meet the needs of young people with disability and parents/caregivers.
The survey closes on Sunday, 20 October.