The NDIS (the National Disability Insurance Scheme) launched in July 2013, following years of discussion about the need for a major reform of disability services in Australia. Now it’s in the process of being gradually rolled out across Australia in phases.
The Shepherd Centre is a registered NDIS service provider and we have a wealth of experience helping many families go through the NDIS planning process.
Instead of the government directly funding service providers like The Shepherd Centre, it will now allocate funding to each individual person seeking support. This means your child will receive an individualised funding package designed to cover what they specifically need. If you’d like to know more about how this will look when it comes to your service with The Shepherd Centre, just give us a call or speak to us when you’re in next and we can help walk you through it.
As a parent or guardian, you‘ll play a very active role in the NDIS process. You’ll be in direct contact with the government through an agency called the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
Even though the NDIA will make the final decisions about funding, you’ll need to provide information and make decisions along the way about your child’s future. It may feel overwhelming to start with but The Shepherd Centre team is ready to help and support you as you prepare for meetings with the NDIA. Click here to see how The Shepherd Centre can help your family with NDIS.
For now, the important thing to know is that you’ll be the main contact for the NDIA. We’re here to support you and advocate for you in some circumstances but the plan will be made between you and the NDIA.
Start thinking now about goals for your child’s future and their support needs. As your child grows up you may not be in a position to predict exactly what he/she may require in the next 12 months. That’s why it may be helpful for you to meet with our experienced staff at The Shepherd Centre prior to meeting with the NDIA because we can work in partnership with you to determine the possible impacts of your child’s hearing. To arrange a meeting with one of our team members with expertise in the NDIS process, please call 1800 020 030.
You can also access a list of Frequently Asked Questions about the NDIS here.
The introduction of the NDIS is a significant change for everyone involved. It’s understandable that you may feel a jumble of emotions about what’s to come. Remember that we’re here to help and no question is insignificant. We’re ready to walk the journey together with you.
If you want to talk anything through or ask a question, please don’t hesitate to chat with your therapist, give us a call on 1800 020 030 or call one of our centres directly. To read more about the NDIS, visit ndis.gov.au.
Or send us an email via our Contact page.
To download this information as a fact sheet, click here.
The Shepherd Centre is a world-leading, child-safe NDIS service provider and specialist in helping children with hearing loss learn to listen and speak. We have helped thousands of children reach their full potential for over 50 years.
ABN: 61 000 699 927
The Shepherd Centre acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands where we work. We pay our respects to elders past and present.
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