Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be challenging, even for those familiar with it. Individuals needing support—whether due to a child’s recent diagnosis, an accident leading to disability, or the development of a condition like dementia, motor neurone disease, or multiple sclerosis—often find the process overwhelming. Without proper support, navigating the system can create unnecessary stress.
If a disability arises from an accident, medical condition, or progressive disease, hospital social workers provide essential guidance. They assist with emergency accommodation, financial support, and access to healthcare or legal services. They coordinate support providers, advocate for individuals, and help them navigate the healthcare system. Outside of hospitals, social workers operate in community health centers, aged care services, mental health services, and drug and alcohol support programs. They also work in education, child protection, family support, employment services, the justice system, housing, and disability services. Some social workers operate independently in private practice. Speaking to a Centrelink social worker is possible by calling the Centrelink Employment Services line at 132 850 or visiting a local service center.
If a child is diagnosed with a developmental delay or disability before turning seven, the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) program provides tailored support. Families in central NSW can access services designed to meet their child’s specific needs and receive guidance on navigating the NDIS.
The NDIS supports individuals aged 7 to 65 by providing funding for necessary services. This financial assistance helps people with permanent and significant disabilities access essential support. Each participant has an individual plan that outlines their goals and allocated funding. Supports may include volunteering, job opportunities, social activities, and community engagement. Participants, along with nominees or decision-makers, determine how and when they receive support.
The Disability Advocacy Service in Bathurst offers valuable assistance in understanding and accessing services. They also advocate on behalf of individuals who require help navigating the system. Local Area Coordinators (LACs), based at Social Futures in the Centrepoint Arcade on Summer Street, assist people with disabilities by linking them to services, fostering inclusive communities, and developing individualized plans. They help implement and review NDIS plans while supporting participants in achieving their goals.
An NDIS plan should include funding for a Support Coordinator, at least initially. Support Coordinators assist in connecting individuals with complex support networks, ensuring effective use of funds, and preventing overspending. They collaborate with service providers and plan managers, helping participants understand their funding allocations and avoid service gaps. Finding a Support Coordinator in the Central West can be difficult, but social workers, LACs, and advocacy services can provide recommendations.
Understanding funding management is crucial when applying for NDIS support, as it affects service choices. The NDIS offers three management options. NDIA-managed funding requires service providers to submit invoices directly to the NDIA for payment. This method can limit choices since all services must be NDIS-registered. Plan-managed funding involves a designated plan manager who oversees the funds and ensures invoices are paid correctly. This option provides more flexibility while ensuring proper fund allocation. Self-managed funding gives participants full control over their finances, requiring them to manage payments and maintain accurate records for auditing. While self-management allows access to both registered and non-registered service providers, it also demands a greater level of financial organisation.
Both plan-managed and self-managed options provide greater flexibility by allowing the use of non-registered providers. As more small service providers emerge across the Central West, this flexibility increases the available choices for participants seeking NDIS support.