Hi Supporter, 

Hope you’re doing well and keeping safe. While things are starting to open up a little more all around the country, we know that it’s still a difficult time for many people with disability and families. So we are making sure we keep you updated on everything new with the NDIS.

We all need a little good news at the moment

It may have only taken a global pandemic to do it (!) but in the last couple of weeks the NDIA have finally introduced the kind of flexibility we have all been wanting and asking for (since about 2013).

In case you missed it, on May 9 the NDIA introduced a change to their systems. NDIS participants who are plan managed or Agency managed can now use their core funds across all core categories.

That means you no longer need at least $1 in a category to move your funds around.

In other words core funding is now completely flexible. You can now use your funds in the way that works best for you.

There are of course a few ifs and buts. We’ve got all the details on our website – we encourage you to check it out.

But we don’t want to go without saying – this change happened because of you. Because you kept pushing for the flexibility you need and expect.

Now on to the next thing ….

What the Federal Court said and what it means for all NDIS participants

Recently the Federal Court of Australia handed down a decision that affects all NDIS participants.

The court said that if an NDIS participant needs a support related to their disability, the NDIS must fund it.

In this particular case the support was a specialised sexual one.

Our good friend Dr George Taleporos has looked at the case and unpacked what it means for everyone who depends on the scheme to get what they need.

Our check in survey

In case you missed it, we’ve launched a survey to ask you how you’re dealing with all the changes in the NDIS over the last few weeks. We want to know if they’re working for you - or if you think more needs to be done.

We will close the survey shortly but we want to give you one last chance to have your say.

We also have an Easy Read version of the survey on our website or you can download the PDF directly here.

And finally …

We are organising our next Zoom forum with the NDIA so stay tuned for more details. And get your questions ready because we will be putting the call out very soon!

Please stay safe and well.

Kirsten and the EAC team