What Is the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)?
NDIS is a government scheme, funded by Australian tax payer contributions and managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
The scheme supports people with a disability, who are under the age of 65. It has two main aims:
- To cover costs of reasonable and necessary support and equipment that someone with a disability may need to maintain independence, based on an individual’s circumstances, needs and goals.
- To give people with a disability greater control to design, plan and choose their own support and services they receive and who provides them.
Who Is Eligible for the NDIS?
The scheme is open to people under the age of 65 who have a permanent and significant disability, that substantially reduces the ability to participate in everyday activities. Some children under the age of 6, who have a development delay may also be eligible.
The NDIA has an access checklist tool to enable you to check your own eligibility. If you meet the criteria, contact the NDIA or call them on 1800 800 110 to ask for an Access Request Form.
The NDIS is only available in specific geographical areas currently, but continues to be rolled out. The rollout in Western Australia will be complete by 2020. Learn more about the current status of the NDIS rollout in WA.
Will NDIS Funding Cover A Guide Dog?
A Guide Dog qualifies as a mobility aid and in most cases, will be covered by NDIS funding. You may also be eligible for maintenance support to cover ongoing costs such as food, toys, veterinary bills and pet insurance. This needs to be included in your NDIS Plan, along with the costs of your Guide Dog, training and aftercare support.
We encourage everyone who is eligible for NDIS to access the funding. This allows us to use funds received through donations and fundraising, to support our ongoing program and to help people who do not qualify for NDIS funding.
It is vital that you discuss your current and future needs with our NDIS Planning Team before finalising your plan. It is very difficult to make changes to NDIS plans, once implemented. We are able to make recommendations for additional services and aids to help you achieve your goals. Please contact our NDIS Coordinator on (08) 9311 8247 to discuss your needs further.
Can I Still Get A Guide Dog If I Can’t Access the NDIS?
Regardless of eligibility, Guide Dogs WA will provide Guide Dog mobility services to anyone who needs one, free of charge.
Further Information
If you require further information about the NDIS, please complete the form below and one of our team will contact you shortly.
