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FAQ

FAQ

Frequently Asked Question

General

The wait time for an initial appointment is currently 12 months.

Contact, Language for Life via below contact Details or through the Live Chat in the website. One of our friendly receptionists will take your details, discuss our services and any questions or concerns you may have, and arrange an appointment time. 

Email:  enquiries@languageforlife.com.au

New Client Enquiries: 1300 9898 07

Heaths Road Clinic: (03) 9731 6486

Derrimut Road Clinic: (03) 8714 1751

  1. Face to Face Sessions in Clinic
  2. Telehealth sessions via Zoom
  3. Home Visits / Kinder Visits / School Visits/Age Care Visists

The time period of a session will depend on the agreement between the clinician and the patient.  Typically a session will last from 30 minutes to one hour and a 10 additional minutes spent preparing and documenting a session. (Additional documentation belongs to NDIS registered clients)

No, anyone can refer to any of our services. However you will need a doctor’s referral if you are planning to claim a rebate through Medicare (see below). If your child qualifies for Medicare rebate a GP will complete the referral for a Chronic Disease Management Plan.

You may request Telehealth sessions via Zoom. Your clinician will send you the ZOOM link the day of the appointment.

Therapy for a child works best when parents and the therapist work well together. As you can understand the clinician is faced with new procedures and responsibilities in setting up the clinic room for the next client and doesn’t have adequate time for conversations with each parent after each session.

If you would like to talk to the clinician, please organise a time to speak with them on the phone or via ZOOM at a time that suits you both.

It can be difficult to know what funding options you can access for your child’s therapy. Please see below for helpful links. We are registered for Helping Children with Autism, Better Start and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) as well as Medicare. Please don’t hesitate to call if you need additional advice.

  • Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP)
  • National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
  • Helping Children with Autism (HCWA) Initiative
  • Helping Children with Autism Medicare Rebates
  • Mental Health Plan
  • Private Health Insurance
  • What should I expect when my child has Speech Pathology assessment?

An assessment allows a speech pathologist the opportunity to assess your child’s development. This assessment may include a standardized test, observation through play, medical history information, and/or parent report. In most cases, it includes all four. The assessment will determine if therapy is needed and what type.

  • What ages of patients do you see?

We provide pediatric services for children from birth to 21 and adult services specifically for autism

  • Do you work with children with autism?

Yes. Language for life Speech Pathology Services believes that a collaborative and multidisciplinary effort between the child, his/her family and his/her other support networks help to achieve results and reach the highest level of success. We are committed to providing our staff with extended continuing education and ongoing training opportunities related to autism treatment. Treatment of children with autism and working closely with their families is one of our specialties.

  • Do you involve parents in the treatment process?

Yes. Parents are a very important part of treatment at Language for Life Speech Pathology Services. Parents are often invited into the treatment rooms to observe therapy if the situation is appropriate, and parent education is an integral part of every therapy session. Each session is designed to allow time for the parent and therapist to discuss progress and what was done during the therapy session. Home programs are provided to the parent to increase carryover in all settings and help the child be more successful in reaching their goals. 

  • What can I do at home to help my younger child’s speech-language development? 

Generally speaking, understanding your child’s current communication level (preverbal, single word communicator, phrase or sentence level communicator, etc.) is very important in terms of what to model at home. Try not to overuse questions to get your young child to talk, but rather model comments about events as they are unfolding. Try to avoid rapid and lengthy speaking turns and encourage turn-taking. Praise your child’s efforts to communicate using all possible means: gestures, pointing, gaze, and verbal attempts.

  • How long will speech therapy take before my child improves? 

This depends on many factors such as: severity of the disorder, student cooperation, motivation, and readiness to learn. Family involvement in implementing home practice is another significant factor. In general, children with receptive language problems (difficulty understanding language) tend to require longer courses of treatment, as do children with underlying neurocognitive impairments such as autism. 

  • How many times per week should my child attend speech therapy? 

Most children are seen in our clinic one to two times per week, whether or not he/she is receiving school-based therapy, depending on the severity of the disorder, or what type of intervention program is recommended. More intensive schedules are occasionally implemented as needed.

  • Do you provide written reports of my child’s progress? 

Written progress reports are generated upon parent request, and are charged for at our hourly rate. Progress can also be discussed verbally via face-to-face meetings or teleconferencing (also charged at our hourly rate.)

  • Speech therapy on a computer?  How could virtual speech therapy possibly be effective?

Virtual Speech therapy is not only effective for the treatment of many speech-related issues, it is extremely efficient. By eliminating travel time or weather-related disruption, you can maximize results. Virtual services also make speech therapy accessible to everyone, no matter where they (both the client and the therapist) live.

With virtual speech therapy, you have access to the services of a licensed therapist in the privacy of your home or business at a mutually convenient time. And it is fun and interactive

  • What should I expect at my first appointment?

It’s very normal to feel anxious, nervous, or unsure about your first appointment. Our psychologists will provide a private, comfortable, safe, respectful and non-judgmental place for you to discuss anything you need to.

In the first few sessions, the practitioner will typically ask you questions about yourself, your life, and any presenting problems you would like to work on. Together, you will create a plan of how therapy can assist you with these problems, how many sessions it may take, and how frequently you should meet. Prior to your first session it can be helpful for you to ask yourself what changes you would like to make in your life. The aim of therapy is for us to then work together to help you achieve those changes.

 

  • My child needs a psychologist – can I come with them?

Your first session will likely be on Telehealth via Zoom or a Phone call.In that session, your therapist will discuss with you the most appropriate structure of future sessions with your child.

In the case of adolescents, depending on the age of your teenager they may wish to see their therapist without you present. However, it is recommended that a parent is always available to attend the sessions if needed, and parental consent is needed for under 16s to attend therapy.

 

  • What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Psychologists and psychiatrists both provide treatment to individuals with emotional problems. Typically, a psychologist will have a Master or Doctorate degree and a psychiatrist will have a Medical degree.  Psychologists help people control and change their behavior as a primary method of treating problems. Psychiatrists prescribe medication as a primary means of changing people’s behavior. Both psychologists and psychiatrists assume that complex emotional problems are likely to be the result of both biological and psychological causes.



  • How often are therapy appointments scheduled?

It is not possible to answer this question without considering the person and the nature of the problem.  There are many approaches (or schools of) psychotherapy. The most frequently being cognitive therapy, behavior therapy, reality therapy and psychodynamic therapy.  The frequency of psychotherapy appointments depends somewhat on the theoretical approach of the therapist and on the nature and severity of the problem.  Frequency typically varies from 1-3 sessions per week, with the average being once per week. The length of treatment sessions varies with each therapist but is usually between 30-60 minutes long.



  • How many treatment sessions will be needed?

The length of treatment depends upon several variables including the nature and severity of the problem, the treatment goals selected, and the approach of the therapist.   A national research study found that 50% of psychotherapy clients had made improvement within 8 sessions of therapy, and 75% showed improvement after 6 months of therapy. However, remember that improvement is not the same as successfully completing treatment.  More serious problems, including recurring chronic depression, substance abuse, personality problems, and ongoing stress responses often require treatment for longer than 6 months.

  • Is a referral required for dietetics?

 

Appointments can be made without a referral.

 

  • What can I expect from my first appointment?

If you have never met with a qualified dietician before, it might be intimidating going into your first appointment. A common query is: “Will I be able to eat my favorite meals any longer?”. Your dietician is there to support you and help you achieve your objectives while teaching you how you can still eat the foods you enjoy. Your dietician will empower you to make better eating choices for your health.

 

  • How frequently must you attend the telehealth sessions?

 

This depends on your progress and overall health.After treatment, follow-up appointments, (usually four) over a six month period, are recommendeds. You may have one review appointment every year after that. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover a set number of sessions with a registered dietitian.

 

  • How long does a typical treatment session last?

 

You and your dietician will get to know each other and decide what you want to achieve from your sessions at your initial appointment, which usually lasts 45 minutes to an hour. 

 

  • What sort of questions will my dietician ask me?

 

Your dietician may ask you:

Have you ever seen a registered dietitian?

How do you know when you’re hungry or full?

To you, what does a typical day of eating entail?

Do you ever eat when you’re upset or stressed?

How do you deal with stress and sleep?

 

It’s very important to keep in mind that your nutritionist isn’t there to judge you. They will listen, assess any problems, and assist you as the best they can. Please be honest in your responses so that you may get the most out of your session, and feel free to ask any questions you may have. Remember that the more the dietician learns about you and your life, the more they will be able to assist you. This is an opportunity for you to earn each other’s trust and feel your best!

  • How long does it take for art therapy to work?

    For the best results, many people find that sticking to weekly sessions for at least three months is helpful, just like sticking to a regular gym routine. Taking care of your mental health is essential for your overall well-being, and there’s no limit to how you can become the best version of yourself.

  • How do I know art therapy is working?

    Therapy is a journey, not a quick solution. We’ll collaborate to make a plan that supports your therapy goals. During this time, it’s all about you. Consider asking yourself these questions: Is joy growing? Are conflicts easing? Am I making decisions with more confidence and ease? etc.

  • How would I use the arts in online art therapy?

    In our online sessions, we might discover creative images and metaphors as we chat. Feel free to use your own art supplies like crayons, pencils, pens, paints, or play-dough if you’d like. Expressing yourself through metaphors and art is a strong way to share your experiences and envision your growth and healing. If you create art between sessions, you can email art therapist the images to discuss in our next session, or simply hold them up to the camera during our online chat.

  • What Can You Expect From Online Art Therapy?

    In online art therapy, you can tap into memories and experiences hidden in your subconscious, bringing them to life on paper, canvas, or any medium you prefer. At the start of a remote session, you’ll chat briefly with your art therapist about the goals you want to achieve through the activity. Just like in face-to-face therapy, you’re free to use any art materials that help convey your thoughts and feelings, regardless of the size or complexity of your creation. Art therapy serves as a soothing practice that enhances your ability to stay present, shifting focus from the past. With the guidance of a qualified art therapist, you’ll find joy and readiness to progress in life after an enriching art therapy session.
  • What is Medicare? 

 

Medicare is Australia’s universal health insurance scheme. It guarantees all Australians (and some overseas visitors) access to a wide range of health and hospital services at low or no cost. 

The Medical Benefits Schedule (MBS) lists the medical services covered by Medicare.


  • Medicare rebates and billing styles

There are various ways a general practitioner may charge for a Medicare eligible consultation. For example: a) ‘Bulk-bill’ a patient, effectively charging only the Medicare Rebate fee directly to Medicare leaving the patient with $0 to pay. This method is common for concession card holders and children under 16. Language for Life does not have this option available. 

 

Charge the patient a ‘private fee’. The patient pays the fee on the day of service, and then claims the ‘rebate’ from Medicare. The patient will therefore be out of pocket for the ‘gap’, being the difference between the private fee and the rebate to which the practitioner is entitled.

  • Medicare Rebate Amounts – *PRE PAYMENT IS REQUIRED FOR SESSIONS



  • Speech and Occupational Therapy 
    • Client with GP referral-Medicare rebate per session under item # 10970 is $55.10 (out of pocket $41.90). These fees are inclusive of correspondence issued back to the referring G.P. as required under the Medicare arrangements.
    • Client with Pediatrician referral- Medicare Helping Children with Autism (H.C.W.A.)-Medicare rebate per intervention session for up to 20 sessions under item # 82020 is $77.80 (out of pocket $    )



  • Psychology 
    • Medicare rebates through the Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) or Better Access initiative
    • Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the government has permitted the use of MHCPs for Telehealth. This means that if you are eligible for a MHCP you will be entitled to a rebate of  $124.50 (out of pocket $   ) for a Clinical Psychologist or $84.50 (out of pocket $    )for a Psychologist when having online sessions. Rebates are available for all ages. 

    • A MHCP allows you to claim a partial rebate on the first 6 sessions. Please bring your MHCP referral with you to get a rebate. If after your 6 sessions you require another 4 sessions, your doctor will need to extend your referral and you will need to go back to the doctor to review this. After your 6th session Langugae for Life will write a letter to your referring doctor and outline the progress of therapy; if another 4 sessions are needed the letter will request this.  

 

    • PLEASE NOTE: A Medicare rebate for further sessions is only possible with agreement from your referring doctor.

    • You can claim a rebate for up to 20 sessions of therapy (20 total sessions can be shared between psychology, occupational therapy, and speech therapy).
  • What should I expect at my first appointment?

It’s very normal to feel anxious, nervous, or unsure about your first appointment. Our psychologists will provide a private, comfortable, safe, respectful and non-judgmental place for you to discuss anything you need to.

In the first few sessions, the practitioner will typically ask you questions about yourself, your life, and any presenting problems you would like to work on. Together, you will create a plan of how therapy can assist you with these problems, how many sessions it may take, and how frequently you should meet. Prior to your first session it can be helpful for you to ask yourself what changes you would like to make in your life. The aim of therapy is for us to then work together to help you achieve those changes.

 

  • My child needs a psychologist – can I come with them?

Your first session will likely be on Telehealth via Zoom or a Phone call.In that session, your therapist will discuss with you the most appropriate structure of future sessions with your child.

In the case of adolescents, depending on the age of your teenager they may wish to see their therapist without you present. However, it is recommended that a parent is always available to attend the sessions if needed, and parental consent is needed for under 16s to attend therapy.

 

  • What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

Psychologists and psychiatrists both provide treatment to individuals with emotional problems. Typically, a psychologist will have a Master or Doctorate degree and a psychiatrist will have a Medical degree.  Psychologists help people control and change their behavior as a primary method of treating problems. Psychiatrists prescribe medication as a primary means of changing people’s behavior. Both psychologists and psychiatrists assume that complex emotional problems are likely to be the result of both biological and psychological causes.



  • How often are therapy appointments scheduled?

It is not possible to answer this question without considering the person and the nature of the problem.  There are many approaches (or schools of) psychotherapy. The most frequently being cognitive therapy, behavior therapy, reality therapy and psychodynamic therapy.  The frequency of psychotherapy appointments depends somewhat on the theoretical approach of the therapist and on the nature and severity of the problem.  Frequency typically varies from 1-3 sessions per week, with the average being once per week. The length of treatment sessions varies with each therapist but is usually between 30-60 minutes long.



  • How many treatment sessions will be needed?

The length of treatment depends upon several variables including the nature and severity of the problem, the treatment goals selected, and the approach of the therapist.   A national research study found that 50% of psychotherapy clients had made improvement within 8 sessions of therapy, and 75% showed improvement after 6 months of therapy. However, remember that improvement is not the same as successfully completing treatment.  More serious problems, including recurring chronic depression, substance abuse, personality problems, and ongoing stress responses often require treatment for longer than 6 months.

  • Is a referral required for physiotherapy?

 

No. In general, a child does not need a referral to see a physiotherapist.



  • What happens at my child’s initial appointment?

 

The Pediatric Physiotherapist will ask some questions including your concerns, your child’s birth and medical history, your child’s daily functions and what strategies you are already putting in place to address concerns. The Pediatric Physiotherapist will check the targeted area of concerns through observation, play and sometimes using a formal assessment tool if required. Your child’s other areas of development and possible risk factors will also be screened to make sure that your child is developing or performing at the age appropriate level.

 

The Pediatric Physiotherapist will analyse the information and explain the findings to you. With the understanding of your child’s difficulties and strengths, a management plan will be developed with your in-put. This may include a physiotherapy home program, liaison with your GP, referral to other allied health services etc.…

The time for an initial consultation can be ranged from 30 – 60 mins.

  • How often do I need to come and see the physiotherapist ?

 

 This will depend on you, your child’s needs and goals and on your location. We will discuss this individually.


  • How long is a treatment session usually?

 

Usually a treatment session for children with a complex, chronic or neurological condition is one hour. This allows enough time for the child to settle in and for the physiotherapist to assess the child, discuss goals and relevant treatment matters and perform the treatment. The first session includes a comprehensive assessment, goal setting and the start of the treatment. This might take up to 1.5 hours. Sessions for orthopedic or less complex conditions usually take 30-45 minutes. 



  • When is the best time to start physiotherapy treatment with my child?

 

As soon as possible! When you notice something is not going well in your child’s development you should see a pediatric physiotherapist for assessment and possible treatments
The child’s development in the early years of life goes quickly and is the foundation for a whole life to come. Catching up on missed opportunities and needing to correct abnormal posture and movement is much harder than possibly avoiding problems by commencing treatment early. Posture and movement are like habits, the longer you have an unwanted habit, and the harder it is to break.


  • How often do I need to exercise with my child?

 

This will depend on your child’s needs and goals, your time and your commitment. We will assess and discuss this regularly in our sessions.

  • Can Medicare cover music therapy services?

Medicare does not typically provide coverage for music therapy services. However, healthcare policies and coverage can change over time, so it’s essential to check with Medicare or your specific insurance provider to get the most up-to-date information regarding music therapy coverage. If Medicare coverage is not available, you may explore other potential sources of funding. Always consult with your healthcare provider and insurance representative to understand your options and any associated costs.

  • Is music therapy effective when delivered via telehealth?

Certainly! Music therapy has shown to be effective through telehealth platforms, providing numerous benefits to individuals seeking therapeutic support. Telehealth enables convenient access to music therapy services, overcoming geographical barriers and making it more accessible to people in remote areas or with limited mobility. Additionally, the comfort and familiarity of home environments can foster a relaxed atmosphere for clients, promoting engagement and openness during sessions. Therapists can still monitor progress, offer tailored interventions, and maintain continuity of care, making telehealth an invaluable tool in delivering music therapy services.

 

Language for Life Speech Pathology Services is registered and currently accepting families who are receiving NDIS funding. Please note we are registered as “MELBOURNE SPEECH PATHOLOGIST PTY LTD trading as Language for Life”. 

  • What is the National Disability Insurance Scheme? (NDIS)

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a scheme of the Australian Government that funds costs associated with disability.  

Tthe NDIS takes a lifetime approach, providing people with a disability under the age of 65 the reasonable and necessary support they need to live an ordinary life. The NDIS can provide people with disability information and connections to services such as therapy, support groups, libraries, schools and doctors. Early Intervention services are also provided through NDIS. 

Language for Life is a registered NDIS provider.  

 

 

  • What is an individualised NDIS plan?

Children with longer-term needs might be able to access an NDIS support plan. Your child’s iindividualised plan will be based on his goals or the goals you have for your child. It will cover the support your child needs to meet these goals.

Your child’s NDIS plan will include:

  • Informal support that you and your family give your child
  • Support from community and mainstream providers (not funded by NDIS)
  • Support that is funded by the NDIS.

 

NDIS-funded support might include therapies, technologies or equipment to help your child with daily living activities, or modifications to your home.

NDIS will not fund support that is the responsibility of mainstream services like the education or health systems.

You can review your child’s NDIS plan regularly, generally every 12 months. This lets you, your child and your NDIS professional talk about what is and isn’t working, change your child’s goals if you need to, and adjust supports as your child’s circumstances change.

You can also ask to have your child’s plan reviewed at other times if his circumstances change before your next scheduled review.

The reviews of your child’s NDIS plan might show that early intervention has increased your child’s abilities and independence and reduced his need for support. This might mean that your child no longer needs help from the NDIS. If this happens, your NDIS professional will work with you to help your child transition from the NDIS to mainstream and community support.

If your child has additional needs in the future, the NDIS will provide funding support again.

 

  • How do I apply for the NDIS? 

Your child must:

  • be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or other visa holder with a Protected Special Category Visa
  • Live in an area where the NDIS is operating.

 

You can apply for the NDIS at the following link:

https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying-access-ndis

 

If your child is 0-6 years and eligible for NDIS (your child does NOT need a diagnosis or disability to access Early Intervention supports); 

 

  • You will meet with an NDIS early childhood partner to discuss your child’s needs and goals. You will talk about the support your child gets from family, friends, other services (like the education system) and community activities or service providers. And you’ll talk about how well this support works for your child.
  • You will also talk about general things like how your child usually manages daily activities, and more specific topics like how much support you think your child needs for certain tasks.
  • Your NDIS early childhood partner will work with you to decide on support for your child and family. Depending on your child’s needs, the NDIS early childhood partner might:
    • Give you information or emotional support
    • Refer you to mainstream services like community health services, playgroups or peer support groups
    • Provide or help you find early intervention for your child – for example, speech therapy or occupational therapy.

 

  • If your child needs longer-term support, your NDIS early childhood partner can:
    • Recommend that your child moves to an individualised NDIS plan
    • Help you request ongoing NDIS access.

 

  • If your child becomes an NDIS participant, your early childhood partner will help you develop the individualised NDIS support plan for your child. Your early childhood partner will submit the plan to the NDIA for approval. Once the plan is approved, your child will start to get NDIS funding. You choose the providers you want to work with and start putting the plan into action.





  • My child is aged 7 years or older. Can my child use the NDIS?

If your child is 07 years or older, to access the NDIS your child must:

  • Have a permanent and significant disability that affects her ability to take part in everyday activities
  • Be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or other visa holder with a Protected Special Category Visa
  • Live in an area where the NDIS is operating.

You can use the NDIS access checklist to find out whether your child meets these requirements.

If your child aged 7 years or older and can use the NDIS, w. What happens next?

  • If your child meets the requirements to access the NDIS, you’ll meet with an NDIA planner or an NDIS local area coordination partner.
  • You’ll discuss your child’s needs and goals. You’ll also talk about the support your child gets from family, friends, mainstream providers (like the education system) and community activities or service providers. And you’ll talk about how well this support works for your child.
  • You’ll also talk about general things like how your child usually manages daily activities, and more specific topics like how much support you think your child needs for certain tasks.
  • This might take more than one meeting, and your child might also need to be assessed by a specialist.
  • You and your NDIS professional will work together to develop an individualized NDIS plan for your child. The NDIS professional will submit it to the NDIA for approval.
  • Once the plan is approved, your child will start to get NDIS funding. You choose the providers you want to work with and start putting the plan into action.






  • What if I’m not happy with the support in my child’s NDIS plan?

Your NDIS professional will talk with you about what support is considered reasonable and necessary for your child. But if you don’t agree with the support in your child’s NDIS plan, you can contact the NDIA or ask for a review of the plan.

A senior NDIA staff member will decide whether to review your child’s NDIS plan based on the information you’ve provided.

If you’re not happy with the outcome of the NDIA review, you can apply for an external review by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. The NDIS appeals service provides free access to advocacy and legal support for reviews.




  • What does reasonable and necessary support mean?

 

The NDIS funds reasonable and necessary support that helps your child reach her goals in a range of areas. For example, these goals might include taking part in social and community activities, and looking after her health and wellbeing.

To be considered reasonable and necessary, support must be:

  • Related to your child’s disability
  • Value for money
  • Likely to work and benefit your child
  • Based on evidence

 

Reasonable and necessary support doesn’t include day-to-day living costs that aren’t related to your child’s disability support needs.

Your child’s reasonable and necessary support takes into account any informal support that your child already has. This means the informal arrangements that are part of your family life or broader community network, as well as other mainstream support like that provided by the health and education systems.

When the NDIA makes decisions about what supports are reasonable and necessary for your child, it refers to rules and guidelines in the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013 (NDIS Act).



  • NDIS Fee Schedule

 

Speech, Occupational Therapy & Psychology Services for National Disability Insurance scheme (NDIS) participants will be charged at the current price as depicted in the NDIS price guide 2021/2022 (costs will be subject to change with yearly Commonwealth Government review).

NDIA clients will be provided with a Service Agreement Outline of the fees and contract of service.

 

For more information visit https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/how-ndis-works





  • What services and equipment can be funded under the NDIS?

 

There is no minimum funding under the NDIS. Your child’s plan outlines goals and aspirations, and being part of the NDIS means your child gets access to the support he needs to meet these goals, regardless of his situation or diagnosis.

Types of supports that the NDIS might fund include:

  • Support for daily living activities like getting dressed and eating
  • Transport so that your child can take part in community or social activities, or go to school
  • Therapeutic support including behaviour support
  • Modifications to your home, including design and construction
  • Equipment or technology to help your child
  • Modifications to your car.

 

Generally, the NDIS won’t fund support that:

  • Isn’t related to your child’s disability
  • Duplicates other support already funded by mainstream services like the education or health systems
  • Is part of day-to-day living costs that aren’t related to your child’s support needs
  • Is likely to cause harm to your child or pose a risk to others.

 

For example, the NDIS will fund early interventions like speech therapy or physiotherapy. But it won’t fund inclusion support for kindergartens or modifications to preschool buildings, because these are the responsibility of the early childhood education system.

For school-age children the NDIS will fund support that enables a child to go to school, like help with self-care at school, specialist transport or a hearing aid. But it won’t fund teachers or learning-specific aids like computers, because these are the responsibility of the education system.



  • How will my child’s NDIS plan be managed?

When you and your child meet with an NDIS professional to develop your child’s NDIS plan, you’ll also talk about how you want to manage your child’s funding. You can have as little or as much help as you need.

There are four options.

  • Self-managed
    you can choose to manage the funding for your child’s support. You can do this yourself, or you can have a nominee do this on your behalf. This nominee might be a member of your family, a friend or a carer.


  • Registered plan management provider
    you can choose to have a registered plan management provider manage some or all of the funding for your child’s support. A registered plan management provider can find and organise support for you, pay service providers, take care of the paperwork, and work with your service providers to decide how and when your child gets support.


  • NDIA managed
    you can choose to have the NDIA manage the funding for your child’s support. Under this option you choose the service providers you want from the registered provider list on the NDIS website, and you organise the support your child needs directly with them. The NDIA can help you find and get in touch with the registered service providers. The NDIA then pays the providers directly.

 

A combination of the management options above. You can choose different options for different support. Your child’s plan might have a combination of options.



  • Can I choose disability service providers?

 

You’ll be in control of which service providers you choose and when and how your child gets support, no matter how you choose to manage your child’s NDIS plan.

If the NDIA is managing the funding for some or all of your child’s supports, you need to choose service providers that are registered with the NDIS. You can find local service providers registered with the NDIS. If you want to use a service provider that isn’t on the list, you can ask for it to be registered.

If you’re managing your child’s funding yourself or using a registered plan management provider, you can use support from any service provider, including providers not registered with the NDIS. But if you use a non-registered service provider, you need to think about the quality, risks, safeguards and potential additional costs that might be involved.

If you’re using a combination of management options, you need to use service providers registered with the NDIS for those parts of the funding managed by the NDIA. You can use any service providers for the parts you manage or that are managed by a registered plan management provider.







  • How does the NDIA support families and carers?

The informal support that you and your family give your child is taken into account when your child’s plan is developed. The NDIA works with families and carers to help you keep supporting your child.

Your NDIS professional will ask you about:

  • Whether you need help to keep giving your child the same level of care
  • What might affect your ability to continue caring for your child in the future
  • Whether there are other carers who could also provide support.




  • What if my child can’t use the NDIS?

If your child doesn’t meet the access requirements for the NDIS, you can still get lots of information about