The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is about to embark on two exciting new pilots under its Quality Supports program. These initiatives are designed to ensure that participants with complex needs in the NDIS receive the high-quality services they deserve. Let’s dive into what these pilots entail and why they matter.
What’s Happening?
The NDIA is selecting a group of experienced NDIS providers to take part in two pilots aimed at delivering Support Coordination and Supported Independent Living (SIL) services. These services are crucial for participants with complex needs, ensuring they get the right support to live their lives as independently as possible.
Support Coordination is about helping people with disabilities navigate the NDIS and access the services they need to achieve positive outcomes. SIL, on the other hand, focuses on providing round-the-clock care, including overnight support, for those who require a higher level of assistance in their daily lives.
Why These Pilots?
Many NDIS participants, particularly those with high needs, face challenges accessing appropriate supports. These pilots aim to bridge that gap. The NDIA recognises the importance of having experienced, committed providers who understand the needs of these participants.
As the Minister for the NDIS, Bill Shorten, put it, “We want all NDIS participants to receive high-quality supports… we must ensure we retain experienced providers and support coordinators who have significant expertise in high-needs markets.”
These initiatives come on the heels of feedback from the sector, especially after the Annual Pricing Review (APR), which highlighted the need for changes to support high-quality service delivery. The goal is to incentivise top-tier providers to continue delivering excellent care.
The Details
Both pilots will run for 12 months, giving the NDIA time to evaluate their effectiveness and make improvements for the future. Here’s a breakdown of what’s involved:
- Quality Support Coordination: The NDIA will work with high-quality providers registered for levels 2 and 3 support coordination. These providers must have a proven track record of delivering excellent services to a large number of participants. This pilot addresses concerns that some top-quality providers are struggling financially, ensuring they get the backing they need to continue their important work.
- Quality Supported Independent Living (SIL): Similarly, the NDIA will select providers capable of delivering SIL supports to participants with complex needs, ensuring that these vulnerable individuals don’t fall through the cracks. Providers for this pilot will be selected based on strict criteria to ensure they can meet the high demands of this role.
What’s Next?
Applications for these pilots will open in October, and the selected providers will be announced soon after. The NDIA will share more information on their website in the coming weeks, so keep an eye out if you’re interested.
The big takeaway is that these pilots represent a major step forward in ensuring that all NDIS participants, especially those with high needs, have access to the best possible support. And while the pilots are time-limited, their outcomes will help shape the future of how these critical services are delivered across the country.
The NDIA is working hand-in-hand with participants, ensuring they maintain choice and control over the services they engage with. Ultimately, the aim is to deliver quality outcomes for people with disability.
For more updates, keep an eye on our In The News Page!
Written by Amanda Robinson, B.A., MMentalHealth Prac.
Amanda is a professional with over a decade of dedicated experience in the fields of Mental Health and Disability. Her extensive expertise lies in navigating the intricate landscape of the Disability Sector. She brings a unique perspective to her work, being both a person with lived experience of disability and a compassionate carer. She has a passion for advocacy, making her a staunch champion for the rights and well-being of individuals facing similar challenges.
