General Questions
What is the NDIS?
Who is eligible for the NDIS?
To be eligible for the NDIS, you must:
Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
Have a permanent and significant disability that impacts your daily life
How do I apply for the NDIS?
You can apply for the NDIS by contacting the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) directly. They will guide you through the application process, including submitting evidence of your disability. Visit the NDIS website to start.
Services
What services does Disability Partners offer?
We offer a wide range of services, including:
What is Short Term Accommodation?
Short-Term Accommodation (STA) is a support service provided under the NDIS that offers temporary care and accommodation for participants for up to 28 days. This includes respite care, giving both participants and their carers a break while ensuring the participant's needs are met in a safe and supportive environment. You can visit the NDIS website here for more detailed information on what an STA is, what needs to be included and if you are eligible.
What is our Provider Partner Program?
We strongly believe that NDIS participants should have choice and control over the people and providers that they choose to be supported by however some participants have funding for supports that are agency-managed which means they would have to choose a registered provider which they are not comfortable with, or whose values and ethics don't align with theirs.
Disability Partners work with providers to ensure compliance of the NDIS code of conduct, practice standards and all other relevant legislation
Can I choose my support coordinator and workers?
Yes! We believe in participant choice and control. You can choose support workers that best suit your needs and preferences.
Do you provide services in my area?
We can provide services across Australia so contact us to confirm availability in your area. However, currently we are servicing Queensland.
Support Coordination
What is support coordination?
Support coordination helps participants understand their NDIS plan, connect with service providers, and make the most of their funding. It ensures you get the right support to meet your goals.
How can I access support coordination?
Support coordination must be included in your NDIS plan. If you’re unsure, our team can review your plan and advise you on your options.
Why should I choose Disability Partners for support coordination?
Our experienced support coordinators take the time to understand your needs and preferences. We focus on empowering you to achieve your goals while navigating the complexities of the NDIS. Our unique experience and extensive network makes your NDIS journey easier.
Funding and Payments
What can I use my NDIS funding for?
NDIS funding can be used for services and supports that help you achieve your goals, such as:
Daily living assistance
Therapy sessions
Assistive technology
Home modifications
What is not covered by NDIS funding?
The NDIS does not cover expenses like:
Supports that duplicate those funded by other systems, such as health or education
Employment-related supports, unless clearly related to a participant's disability
Costs for holidays, entertainment, or leisure activities not linked to a participant's disability
Expenses considered everyday living costs not caused by a participant's disability
This NDIS support funded updated list came into effect on October 3rd, 2024 and include:
Items without a clear connection to your disability (e.g., general household expenses)
Services funded by other government programs
Day-to-day living costs unrelated to your disability
How do I track my NDIS spending?
You can track your spending using the NDIS Participant Portal. If you work with a plan manager, they will also provide regular updates. Please see below on more information on plan managers.
Plan Managers
What does a plan manager do?
Plan managers help you to oversee your plan spending. They also help to ensure your support providers are abiding by pricing rules and what they can and can't claim for. Disability Partners works with several plan managers who we can recommend based on your needs. For more information on what a plan manager does and does not do you can visit this website for more information
What is NDIS Plan Management?
Plan management is a service that helps participants manage their NDIS funding. A plan manager can handle payments, keep track of your budget, and ensure your funds are used effectively.
Do I need a plan manager?
If you choose to self-manage your plan, you don’t need a plan manager. However, having one can save you time and provide peace of mind by handling the administrative side of your NDIS funding.
Can Disability Partners help with plan management?
While we don’t provide plan management services, we can recommend trusted plan managers and work closely with them to ensure your plan is maximised to support you. Engaging a plan manager is a relatively easy process. Many allow you to sign up online with them for a quick and easy start.
A couple of options are, First2Care or Plan Partners, please note that Disability Partners does not receive a commission or any other benefit for recommending plan managers.
Getting Supports Started
How do I start receiving services with Disability Partners?
Fill in our referral form
Once we receive your referral form, we will contact you within 2 clear business days to discuss your referral form
If we have capacity, we will schedule an initial meeting where we will discuss your specific support needs, preferences and goals and you will choose who will make up your support team
We’ll then create a personalised support plan tailored to your needs and arrange a meet and greet with your support team members. If all goes well, supports will commence in line with your support plan.
What should I bring to my first consultation?
Please bring:
A copy of your NDIS plan
Any relevant medical or support information
Information on what supports you require
A list of your goals and preferences
Any questions you have, no question is a silly question!
How quickly can services start?
Once your plan is finalised and we have completed the necessary agreements and intake process, services can begin as soon as possible. Our team will work with you to ensure a smooth start.
Partner Program
Is partnering with Disability Partners legal?
Yes, because we ensure our partners compliance with NDIS legislation, practice standards, and the code of conduct, exactly as they would be held accountable if they were registered.
If you have any more questions regarding our partner program, you can call 1300 017 174 to speak to our friendly staff who will be more than happy to help. Alternatively, you can submit your interest here.
While Receiving Support
What if I have a complaint or concern?
We value your feedback. If you have any concerns, you can:
Contact our office directly
Email us at hello@disabilitypartners.com.au
Submit feedback through our online form
We take all complaints seriously and aim to resolve them promptly.
Can I change or cancel my services?
Yes, you have the flexibility to change or cancel services. You can request changes at any time, and we will work with you promptly to adjust your supports to suit your needs.
Have more questions? Contact Disability Partners today! We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Phone: 1300 017 174
Email: hello@disabilitypartners.com.au
Contact Form
Let’s work together to make the most of your NDIS journey, you're not alone!
