Autism Partnership Australia

Abstract: The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has, over the past three years, inadvertently heightened the challenges families face when seeking access to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. This presentation delves into the intricacies of these challenges, offering practical solutions aimed at dismantling the barriers that hinder families from securing reasonable and necessary intensive ABA services. By providing ABA service providers with a robust understanding of the NDIA's planning, review, and appeal processes, the presentation equips them with practical strategies and tools to advocate for families effectively. Central to our discussion will be the journey of over 60 families who have successfully navigated the NDIA's review and appeal labyrinth, securing the support they need. Their stories not only illuminate the path to overcoming bureaucratic hurdles but also underscore the critical role of informed, strategic advocacy in ensuring families gain access to essential services. This exploration is designed to equip providers with knowledge and strategies that foster a supportive, empowering environment for families. It aims to inspire a sector-wide shift towards more accessible, family-centred, neuro affirming ABA services, contributing significantly to the broader conversation on disability support and the NDIS.

Target Audience: Providers of ABA services

Learning Objectives: 

1. At the conclusion of this presentation, delegates will understand the specific challenges families face when seeking NDIS funding for ABA services and the implications of these challenges on service accessibility and quality.

2. At the conclusion of this presentation, delegates will understand the NDIA's planning, review, and appeal processes in depth, including key phases and potential pitfalls that ABA service providers and families may encounter.

3. At the conclusion of this presentation, delegates will understand practical strategies and tools for supporting families through the NDIS funding process for ABA services, focusing on advocacy, documentation, and effective communication with the NDIA.

4. At the conclusion of this presentation, delegates will understand the importance of a strategic approach to navigating the NDIA's system, as illustrated by the successful experiences of over 60 families, and how these strategies can be applied to support other families in similar situations.

5. At the conclusion of this presentation, delegates will understand the broader impact of these challenges and solutions on the disability support sector, including potential areas for policy improvement and the role of service providers in advocating for systemic changes.