The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has revolutionized the way disability support is provided in Australia. However, for participants, families, and even service providers, navigating the unique terms and jargon of the NDIS can feel overwhelming. This blog breaks down common NDIS terms and terminologies to help you understand the scheme better.
Key Terms and Definitions
1. NDIS Participant
An individual who has been approved to receive funding and support under the NDIS. Participants must meet the eligibility criteria, including age, residency, and disability requirements.
2. NDIS Plan
A tailored plan created for each participant that outlines their goals, approved funding, and the types of support they can access. Plans are reviewed regularly to ensure they continue to meet the participant’s needs.
3. Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
LACs are professionals employed by partner organizations of the NDIS. They help participants develop, implement, and review their plans. They are also the first point of contact for participants.
4. Support Coordinator
A professional who assists participants in managing their NDIS plans, connecting them with service providers, and ensuring they achieve their goals.
•Levels of Support Coordination:
•Level 1: Support Connection (short-term help).
•Level 2: Coordination of Supports (ongoing assistance).
•Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination (for complex needs).
5. Psychosocial Recovery Coach
A support professional specifically trained to assist participants with psychosocial disabilities, such as mental health challenges. They focus on building resilience and achieving personal goals.
6. Core Supports
Funding allocated for daily living activities and basic support needs. This includes assistance with personal care, transport, and consumables like continence aids.
7. Capacity-Building Supports
Funding aimed at helping participants develop skills and independence. Categories include:
•Improved daily living.
•Social and community participation.
•Finding and keeping a job.
•Improved health and well-being.
8. Capital Supports
Funding for large, one-off purchases such as assistive technology (wheelchairs, communication devices) or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).
9. Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
SDA refers to housing designed for participants with high support needs, providing a safe and accessible environment tailored to their requirements.
10. Supported Independent Living (SIL)
A service designed to help participants live independently in shared or individual housing arrangements. SIL covers support for daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning.
Plan Management and Budgeting Terms
11. Self-Managed
Participants manage their NDIS funding independently, giving them full control over their budget and service providers.
12. Plan-Managed
Participants use a Plan Manager to oversee their funding and payments, offering support without the need for self-management.
13. NDIA-Managed
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) directly manages the participant’s funding, limiting service providers to those registered with the NDIS.
Compliance and Reporting Terms
14. NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
An independent body responsible for ensuring service providers meet high standards of care and comply with NDIS Practice Standards.
15. Restrictive Practices
Interventions or restrictions used to manage behavior that may harm the participant or others. These practices must comply with strict regulations and be included in a behavior support plan.
16. Behaviour Support Plan (BSP)
A detailed plan developed by Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioners to address complex behaviors and minimize the use of restrictive practices.
Service Delivery Terms
17. Early Intervention
Support provided to children or individuals with developmental delays to reduce the impact of a disability over time.
18. Short-Term Accommodation (STA)
Temporary care for participants, often referred to as respite care. It allows participants to experience new environments while giving families and carers a break.
19. Assistive Technology (AT)
Devices or equipment that help participants perform tasks they might otherwise find difficult, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, or communication devices.
NDIS Funding and Administrative Terms
20. Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits
The regulated list of service costs set by the NDIA to ensure fair pricing across the disability sector.
21. Service Agreement
A written agreement between a participant and a service provider outlining the services to be delivered, costs, and expectations.
22. Incident Reporting
Service providers are required to report incidents such as injuries, abuse, or breaches of participant rights to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
Commonly Used Acronyms in the NDIS
Acronym Meaning
NDIA National Disability Insurance Agency
LAC Local Area Coordinator
BSP Behaviour Support Plan
SIL Supported Independent Living
SDA Specialist Disability Accommodation
AT Assistive Technology
STA Short-Term Accommodation
Tips for Navigating NDIS Terminology
1.Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to seek clarification from your LAC, Support Coordinator, or service provider.
2.Utilize Resources: The NDIS website and local support networks often provide glossaries and guides.
3.Leverage Support: Services like 360 Support Coordination offer expertise to help participants understand their plans and funding.
Conclusion
Understanding NDIS terminology is a vital step in navigating the scheme effectively. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you can make informed decisions about your plan, funding, and supports. Whether you’re a participant, family member, or provider, clear communication and knowledge of these terms will help you achieve the best outcomes.
If you have more questions about the NDIS or need support, feel free to reach out to 360 Support Coordination for expert guidance.
