Understanding the NDIS and How It Supports Access and Participation
The National Disability Insurance Scheme, commonly known as the NDIS, is an Australian Government initiative designed to support people with permanent and significant disability. Its aim is to help eligible Australians access the supports they need to live more independently, safely and with greater participation in everyday life.
What is the NDIS?
The NDIS provides funding to eligible individuals, known as participants, based on their specific needs and goals. Rather than offering a standard set of services, each participant receives an individual plan that outlines the supports considered reasonable and necessary for them.
These supports are intended to help people build independence, improve safety and increase access to their community.
What supports can the NDIS fund?
Depending on a participant’s plan, NDIS funding may be used for a range of supports. These can include assistive technology, therapy services, personal supports and other items that help remove barriers to participation.
Funding decisions are made on an individual basis and must align with the participant’s goals, needs and circumstances.
How NDIS plans work
NDIS plans are developed in consultation with the participant and may involve input from carers, support coordinators and allied health professionals. Plans are reviewed regularly to ensure supports remain appropriate as needs and goals change.
Participants can choose how their funding is managed and who delivers their supports, provided those providers meet the relevant NDIS requirements.
Access to community and public spaces
Participation in community life, including access to outdoor and recreational spaces, plays an important role in wellbeing and social inclusion. For some people, physical barriers can make environments such as parks, coastal areas and other public spaces difficult or unsafe to access.
In certain circumstances, NDIS funding may support solutions that help reduce these barriers, where they are considered reasonable and necessary and align with a participant’s individual goals and plan.
About NDIS providers
Registered NDIS providers meet quality and safeguarding standards set by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. Participants may choose to work with registered providers where appropriate for their plan and supports.
SeaAccess is a registered NDIS provider.
Find out more about the NDIS
To learn more about the National Disability Insurance Scheme, including eligibility, planning and available supports, visit the official NDIS website at www.ndis.gov.au.