The latest NDIS COVID-19 (coronavirus) update

October 2, 2020

If you’re an NDIS participant, carer, loved one or provider, you may recall the temporary changes that were implemented by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus). 

In March, a number of changes to the way NDIS plans would be reviewed and the way that plan funds could be utilised during COVID-19 were implemented. Again from 1 July, additional changes applied including the removal of the 10 per cent price loading on certain core and capacity building supports, changes to the cancellation period policy and more.

On 2 October 2020, information from the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Stuart Robert, stated that some temporary measures will continue up to February 2021, with the NDIA and Government continuing to review these. 

In this blog, we’ll cover what the changes are and how they may affect you.

Low Cost Assistive Technology (AT)

During coronavirus, many providers and Allied Health professions have been required to think of innovative solutions to continue delivering supports to participants. Some of these methods includes online or virtual support delivery. 

These newly introduced measures have helped many NDIS participants to continue receiving their regular services, with the help of loved ones, to ensure as little disruption as possible during these unprecedented times.

To help participants continue to receive their NDIS funded supports and services during, the NDIA temporarily broadened the flexible approach to purchasing low cost AT items. This change has allowed participants to access low cost AT items, such as smart devices and fitness equipment, in consultation with their existing support providers.  

The NDIA also allowed participants to use their existing NDIS funding to purchase eligible low post AT items up to $1500.

2nd October 2020 update

Eligible NDIS participants can continue using their existing plan funding to purchase low-cost AT, including smart devices (up to $1500). 

NDIS Support coordination flexibility

Whether you already do have support coordination included in the NDIS plan or not, changes were implemented in March to allow for new and existing participants to use funding within their Core Supports budget to access these supports. 

Usually, support coordination is funded on a needs basis within the Capacity Building budget so this change allows for any NDIS participation to access support coordination easily with their Core budget. 

To allow for this flexibility, three new support coordination items were introduced to the support catalogue under Core Supports, Assistance with Daily Life.

• 01_790_0106_8_3 – Level 1: Support Connection
• 01_791_0106_8_3 – Level 2: Coordination of Supports
• 01_794_0132_8_3 – Level 3: Specialist Support Coordination

2nd October 2020 update

This improved plan flexibility to ensure participants have access to supports will continue.

Deep cleaning and additional supports for SIL arrangements

In response to COVID-19, NDIS participants can access a one-time professional deep clean through their plan funding when a support worker who has visited their home has received a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.

Participants living in Supported Independent Living (SIL) arrangements who are required to self-isolate or quarantine due to a positive COVID-19 diagnoses will also be able to access additional supports including cleaning. 

2nd October 2020 update

The NDIA will continue to allow participants to access their funds to pay for a deep cleaning of their residence in the event a support worker returns a positive COVID-19 test.

Additional support, including a deep cleaning service, for participants who test positive for COVID-19 or who are required to isolate who live in a SIL setting will also continue. 

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

New temporary measures introduced allow certain NDIS providers in restricted areas to claim the costs of PPE by directly invoicing the NDIA. Participants can also recover the costs to purchase their own PPE – including masks – using their NDIS funds, providing they live in a restricted area and receive an average of at least one hour a day of face-to-face daily living supports. 

2nd October 2020 update

Funding of PPE for participants (up to $50 a week) and workers will continue, with the ability to claim PPE in Victoria until at least the end of November and in NSW until the end of October. 

The allowed end date for claiming PPE costs in restricted areas in Queensland ended on 25 September 2020. 

The team at Disability Plan Services are experienced NDIS plan manager and support coordinators. We understand the ins and outs of the NDIS and know how to help you make the most out of your plan funds. We’re passionate about helping you to achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life. 

If you’re looking for help navigating your NDIS plan, get in touch with the team at Disability Plan Services.