Implementation of the NDIS in the ACT commenced on 1 July 2014. It represents a major policy change for how people access services and the ways in which services are delivered. Eligible participants are able to access individual funding packages that support them and make improvements to their current living arrangements, and enable them to work towards goals and aspirations. The NDIS is about giving participants 'choice and control'.

The National Disability Insurance Agency is responsible for implementing the NDIS. The NDIS supports people with permanent and severe functional disabilities, including psychosocial disability. 

Eligible people must be permanent residents of the ACT and aged under 65 years when submitting an access request form. They will have undergone an assessment process to determine their eligibility for an individual funding package. Click here to find out more information about participating in the NDIS in the ACT.

The NDIS will fund reasonable and necessary supports which:

• are related to the person's disability
• do not include day-to-day living costs (e.g. electricity bills, food, rent)
• represent value for money and are likely to be safe, effective and beneficial to the participant
• take into account informal supports provided by carers, families, friends and the community.

Carers are encouraged to be involved - as much as possible - in the assessment of needs processes and the development of individual plans and support packages, to ensure that:

• you provide input on the range of needs of the family member or friend ('the participant') you care for
• the assistance you provide to the participant is documented

You are encouraged to set aside time for preparation and planning before your first meeting with the NDIS Planner. It is vital you consider your own self-care needs and document the current supports you are providing. This can include a wide range of activities. Don't overlook anything because you believe that as a parent or sibling or partner it's your duty to provide care.  You may also wish to submit a carer impact statement to the NDIS Planner. 

As a carer, you do have the right to ask for a private interview with the NDIS Planner. This is usually in circumstances when the person - for a range of reasons - is not acknowledging the supports you provide or where the person doesn't acknowledge their own level of need. In this case, you may also wish to submit a carer impact statement to the NDIS Planner. You may also participate in the participant's meeting with the NDIS Planner, if this is the request of the participant. 

NDIS Events and Resources

Mental Health Carers NDIS guide and checklist

NDIS Planning Workbook

NDIS Forum for mental health carers was held in June 2015.  Click here to read the notes, including information about common questions and answers.

For more information about NDIS and how to access the NDIS, visit www.ndis.gov.au or phone 1800 800 110.