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New to NDIS?

What you need to know to get started

If you or someone you support is new to the NDIS, the process can feel overwhelming at first. SkillsConnection is here to guide participants through every step, ensuring they have the support needed to succeed.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian government initiative providing funding and support to people with permanent and significant disabilities. Its goal is to enable individuals to live fulfilling lives by accessing tailored services and supports.

The NDIS empowers participants to achieve their goals, whether that’s gaining employment, participating in social activities, improving personal care, or increasing independence. With NDIS funding, individuals can access supports that help them live life more fully.

Starting the NDIS journey can be complex, but SkillsConnection offers comprehensive support, from understanding NDIS plans to accessing services aligned with participants’ goals and lifestyles.

Preparing for NDIS

SkillsConnection assists participants in preparing for their NDIS journey by providing clear guidance on what to expect, how to apply, and how to plan for their supports and goals.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the NDIS, participants must:

  • Be under 65 years of age when applying
  • Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
  • Have a permanent and significant disability impacting daily activities

SkillsConnection helps clarify eligibility and supports applicants through the process.

Understanding the NDIS

The NDIS provides funding for a range of supports including personal care, therapies, social participation, transport, home modifications, and more. Participants have choice and control over how their funding is used to meet their unique needs.

How Funding Works

NDIS funding is allocated based on individual goals and support needs outlined in a participant’s plan. This funding can be used flexibly for approved supports delivered by a range of providers.

About Your Plan

An NDIS plan sets out the participant’s goals, funding, and the supports they can access. SkillsConnection helps participants understand their plans and prepare for planning meetings with the NDIA, ensuring they can request the supports that best suit their needs.

How to Manage Your Plan

Participants can manage their NDIS plans in several ways: self-managing, plan managing, or using NDIA-managed funds. SkillsConnection supports participants in choosing and managing the option that works best for them.

What is Plan Management?

Plan management involves financial administration of a participant’s NDIS funding. A plan manager handles budgeting, pays providers, and helps participants track spending, making the process simpler and less stressful.

What is Support Coordination?

Support Coordination assists participants to understand and implement their NDIS plans. Coordinators help connect participants to appropriate services, support goal achievement, and provide guidance to navigate the complexities of the NDIS.

Connecting to Services

SkillsConnection supports participants to find and connect with services that match their goals, whether that’s day programs, in-home support, employment pathways, or social groups. When SkillsConnection isn’t the right fit, they help connect participants to other suitable providers.

Ongoing Support & Coordination

Support from SkillsConnection continues beyond the initial plan setup, with ongoing assistance to make the most of NDIS funding through support coordination and plan management, ensuring participants stay on track to meet their goals.

Still have questions?

Not Sure What You Need?

We’re here to help you figure it out. Whether you’re just getting started or need a more tailored plan, we’ll guide you through the options.