NDIS pricing system expanded for complex needs
New pricing arrangements for people with complex needs and other NDIS news.
The federal government has announced new NDIS pricing arrangements for people with complex needs linked to the skill level of the worker delivering the support.
Under the changes the existing two-tiered system for self-care, social and recreational support will expanded to three-tiers from next February, with the third tier, for very complex needs, attracting a new 10.3 per cent loading.
In addition, a 2.5 per cent temporary support for overheads loading will be available for levels 2 and 3.
“The pricing increase recognises that people with complex needs require higher levels of skilled supports in their NDIS plans,” Mr Fletcher said.
The NDI will test a new pricing structure for therapists and therapy assistants in coming months, he said.
Tasmania reaches deal on NDIS
The commonwealth has finalised an agreement with Tasmania over NDIS funding, which the government says secures the future of the scheme in the state.
Under the agreement Tasmania will pay fixed, upfront contributions with the commonwealth funding the balance of NDIS costs. It also give Tasmania access to $222.6 million of DisabilityCare Australia Fund payments over five years.
The NDIS currently supports 5,000 Tasmanians and is expected to have 10,600 participants by full scheme. The scheme wil create about 2,500 new jobs in the sector, disability services minister Jacquie Petrusma said.
Have your say on NDIS website face lift
A new NDIS test site https://beta.ndis.gov.au/ with improved accessibility features has been launched for a six week feedback period.
The beta website, which is designed to improve user experience following criticism of the original site, will replace the existing one in the new year when design, structure, accessibility and layout has been tweaked.
Until then the existing site remains the main source of information.
“The release of the test version of the NDIS website today is expected to lead to a better experience for people online, with a more accessible and easier to navigate site,” Social Service minister Fletcher said.
Features of the new website
- Simplified structure
- New mobile device-friendly design
- Improved search functions
- New accessibility features
- Clearer layout of information
Users can provide feedback here or via a dedicated email address .
Frontline NDIS services in WA get $88 million boost
Mission Australia and Advanced Personnel Management (APM) have been named as NDIS Partners in the Community in Western Australia and have received $88 million in federal funding to deliver Local Area Coordination Services funds (LAC) in the state from 2019.
The two organisations will deliver local services to an estimated 39,000 people in the state by the time the NDIS reaches full-scheme, Mr Fletcher says.
