The NDIS is a national government scheme that provides funding to help Australians with disability live the best life possible. It also provides all people with disability with information and connections to services in their community such as doctors, sporting clubs, support groups, libraries and schools.

The NDIS is a great step forward for people living with a disability, and it’s helping thousands of people live better lives. But it’s not all smooth sailing.

Insight Disability Services

HOW MANY NDIS providers in australia are struggling to cope with the changes that have been made to the system? Data from the annual State of the Disability Sector Report 2016 shows that many providers are finding it harder to recruit staff, and lack the working capital to grow and change.

NDIS funding helps people with disability access services, equipment and supports they need to improve their lives. These services can include help with daily living, therapy and transport assistance.

Carer Allowances are also available to provide payment to people who are caring for someone with a disability, and can be used to cover extra costs associated with care such as medical expenses or equipment needs.

There are a number of community-based organisations that can assist with the care and support needs of people with disability across Australia. These organisations can offer services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology and psychological services. They can also give advice and guidance about the rights and entitlements of people with disability, and connect you to other government-funded and non-government disability services.

Bila Community Group

BILA Community Group is the brains behind all things community related, from residential care to vocational training. Their high-tech offerings include automated testing and inspection systems and the latest in telemedicine technology. They are also known for their customer service. They have a great online presence, and a nifty app that makes navigating their website a breeze. They have also partnered with leading edge NDIS providers to deliver services and support that is second to none.

Besides the aforementioned app, BILA has a plethora of other cool stuff that make them a true partner in the NDIS journey. For example, their client referral program is designed to connect clients with the right people at the right time, which saves them both money and time in the long run. Moreover, they’re known for fostering a culture of excellence among their staff and making sure that they all aspire to be better versions of themselves. Their team is made up of individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, all with a common goal: to help others be the best version of themselves.

Sunnyfield

A registered NDIS provider, Sunnyfield provides a range of disability services across NSW and the ACT including accommodation, employment, community access, support co-ordination and more. Their services are designed to enhance your quality of life.

The Royal Commission heard that Melissa, Carl and Chen lived together in a group home operated by Sunnyfield. It was revealed that two of their support workers were alleged to have abused them.

One day, another support worker told their mother that she was worried about their safety and would not forgive herself if something happened, the commission heard.

In response to this evidence, Sunnyfield Chief Executive Caroline Cuddihy admitted that she failed to protect Melissa, Carl and Chen from violence and abuse.

It was also revealed that Sunnyfield tried to evict Melissa after her sister - Eliza* lodged multiple complaints about the home with both the NSW Ombudsman and NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. Ms Cuddihy testified that she had assessed Eliza as a “reputational risk” to the organisation and decided to ask her to leave.

The Care Centre

The NDIS recognises that people with disability may also need support away from their home. This is why respite care is one of the most important aspects of the NDIS scheme.

It is not a replacement for residential aged care services, but can be a great option to help people manage their disability while they are on leave. It can include a stay in a residential care facility, or at home with family or friends.

As a registered NDIS provider, from 1 December 2020 you will have access to a number of resources and tools designed to help you deliver the best possible support for your NDIS participants. These resources are available on the NDIS Commission website and will be updated to incorporate the latest information as it becomes available.