NDIS Q

Hey Michael,

Here is the resource page on NDIS - there are some handy videos.

And Clive wrote a good blog about his NDIS application process.

I will ask StrokeLine to add some tips and advice too. 

Hi Michael

Thanks for reaching out and a really good question to be asking. There will be lots of others who are receiving the NDIS, or are going through the process of accessing the NDIS, and I am sure they will have a lot to share.

Diana has shared some great resources and I would definitely start with having a look at the page and Clive’s blog. Both these have some good tips and information.

In regards to the NDIS, the access process can be quite time consuming, so it is good to be prepared and have all your doctors and therapists involved in writing reports for your application. To be eligible, you must be under 65 years of age, you must be an Australian citizen or resident, your stroke must have  caused a permanent impairment (physical, intellectual, cognitive, neurological, visual, hearing or psychosocial), resulting in significant disability. A permanent disability can be clarified by a report from your neurologist or GP. You also need to require support or equipment due to your disability. You can find out more about eligibility here. 

When seeking reports from your medical and treating therapists, it is important they use plain language, not medical terms and ensure they talk about your function and need for support on your worst day.  This can be something challenging for health professionals when when they are focusing on your rehabilitation and gains that you have made. You might like to listen to the podcasts on EnableMe for more tips here. 

You can also seek additional information and support from your Local Area coordinator, and you can find one close to you here.

There is a lot of infomration we could provide you, but it would be good to talk to you directly to ensure we give you information and advice specific to you. I would recommend you give us a call at StrokeLine on Ph. 1800 787 653. We are open Monday to  Friday 9am to 5pm (AEST). You can also email us on strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au.

Kind regards

Siobhan (StrokeLine)

Michael,

I'm going through the process of applying for NDIS funding. My first application (put together by the rehab centre) was refused. Basically it said what had happened to me, not what this meant in terms of what I could no longer do. I've garnered the support of a local disability advocacy service (search for these in whatever state you are in). They undertake NDIS applications on a regular basis and know what medical reports are needed and how the reapplication needs to be worded for your particular circumstances. They can also help sort out what support you are asking the NDIS to cover.

Hi Michael, I wrote a blog about my experience a couple of years ago

https://enableme.org.au/community/blogs/view-blog?blogId=26b43245-3b25-4cce-bb9d-f66174ac4d25

Also happy for you to email me or if you want to catch up we can try and organise that (I think covid stopped us last time we tried to do this)

Toni