.png "NDIS")
NDIS & Behaviour Analysis
Supporting quality behaviour analytic services within the National Disability Insurance Scheme
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is how the Australian Government provides support to people with a permanent disability, and who are under the age of 65 with support to maximise their daily living potential. It is jointly governed and funded by the Australian, State and Territory governments.
Government Initiative
The NDIS represents significant reform to disability services in Australia and is underpinned by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Lifetime Approach
The scheme takes a lifetime approach, investing in people early to improve their outcomes later in life.
NDIA Management
The NDIS is managed and overseen by an independent organisation called the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
NDIS Timeline
July 2013: NDIS initially launched
July 2016: Roll-out began on a State by State basis
May 2018: National Disability Insurance Scheme (Restrictive Practices and Behaviour Support) Rules 2018 (Cth) legislation enacted
July 2018: Behaviour support legislation rolled out across NSW and SA
July 2019: Behaviour support legislation rolled out across VIC, QLD, ACT, NT and TAS
December 2020: Behaviour support legislation finally rolled out across WA and now in affect across all Australian states
Who is Eligible for the NDIS?
To access services through the NDIS, an individual will have to meet some requirements. People who meet these requirements are called 'participants'.
Age Requirement
Must be younger than 65. The NDIS early childhood approach is utilised for children under the age of 9.
Residency
Must live in Australia and have Australian residency status.
Support Needs
Usually need support due to a permanent and significant disability, or need supports now to reduce future needs.
Equipment Needs
May use special equipment because of a permanent and significant disability.
Alternative Support
People who are not eligible for the NDIS can still get help to access community and other government services.
What NDIS Won't Fund
Please visit the NDIS Website for up to date funding criteria.
What Does the NDIS Do?
Every NDIS participant has an individual plan that lists their goals. This covers learning and development, accessing the community, health and wellbeing as well as supports to live as independently as possible.
Individual Goals
NDIS participant goals are centred on developing skills needed to live and enjoy their lives. Goals vary from participant to participant but might include:
- Meeting new people
- Learning independent living skills
- Getting a job
- Participating in community activities
Reasonable & Necessary Funding
The NDIS provides "reasonable and necessary" funding to achieve participant goals. Participants can use their funding to purchase equipment, supports, services, and therapies that will help them achieve their goals.
NDIS Plan Management & Provider Choice
Each NDIS plan requires management by someone/s. The NDIS was set up to allow individuals to access therapists of their own choosing, giving participants 'choice and control' when selecting their therapists, supports and services.
Self-Managed
NDIS participants can manage their own NDIS funds directly.
Nominee Management
Participants can nominate someone else to control the support they receive.
Plan Manager
Use a registered plan management provider to manage funding.
Agency-Managed
Managed through the NDIS agency itself. Registered providers are required for this option.
Registered Providers
Registered providers are individuals or organisations that are registered with the NDIS Commission to deliver a support or a product to a participant in the NDIS. It is only when a participant's funding is managed by the Agency that the support and services must be provided by a registered provider.
How ABA Australia Supports NDIS Practitioners
ABA Australia provides comprehensive support to behaviour analysts delivering services within the NDIS.
Professional Standards
Guidance on ethical and competent practice for behaviour analysts working within the NDIS framework.
Certification & Recognition
Supporting practitioners to achieve and maintain professional credentials recognized by the NDIS.
Community of Practice
Connect with other behaviour analysts delivering services to NDIS participants across Australia.
Professional Development
Access workshops, webinars, and training specific to NDIS service delivery and requirements.
Advocacy & Representation
ABA Australia represents the profession in discussions with NDIS, NDIS Commission, and government.
Important Information
Stay Informed
The NDIS website has a wealth of information and we highly recommend you become familiar with the content in-depth. In particular, the information around eligibility, access and planning are important.
Regular Updates
Information about the NDIS is regularly changing and being updated. It is important to review this information regularly to remain up to date with developments.
NDIS Tribunal Applications
Check out our blog article on Tips for ABA Practitioners assisting in NDIS Tribunal applications
Key References & Resources
Official documentation and resources to support your NDIS practice
NDIS Overview & Guidelines
Comprehensive information about the NDIS operational guidelines and how the scheme works.
Visit ResourceParliamentary Information
Background information from the Australian Parliament on the NDIS legislation and framework.
Visit ResourceSetting Goals
Learn about creating effective NDIS participant plans and setting meaningful goals.
Visit ResourceReasonable & Necessary Supports
Understanding what constitutes reasonable and necessary supports under the NDIS.
Visit ResourceManaging Your Funding
Information about the different ways to manage NDIS funding and what they mean for providers.
Visit ResourceJoin ABA Australia Today
Become part of the national professional association supporting behaviour analysts working within the NDIS and beyond.