As always, a lot is happening in the NDIS space. Many people with plans up for review between April and June are being offered plan rollovers or extensions. Independent assessments have been put on pause. And our team has a new name and new team member! So, what does all this mean for you?
Plan review, rollover or extension?
NDIS plan reviews usually happen about 12 months after your plan started. Due to the pandemic, the NDIA simplified the plan review process and as a result, people with their plans due for review between April and June may be offered to roll over their plan for another 12 months at the same value. So, what are the pros and cons of rolling over your plan and when do you need to inform Mambourin? We’ve answered some of your FAQs below.
When should I tell Mambourin about my review?
We strongly encourage you to let us know as soon as you are notified of your upcoming review.
This allows us to discuss your current support needs and provide information to support your request for ongoing funding.
Should I accept a rollover of my plan?
This decision depends on your personal circumstances. We usually recommend that you review your plan every 12 months because your situation or support needs may have changed since your last plan. That way, the plan is always based on your current needs. However, it is important to keep in mind that plan values can go up, down or stay the same after review.
Do I need to let Mambourin know if my plan is returned, rolled over, or extended?
The answer is yes to all of the above!
This not only allows us to update your records, but also enables us to check that you have adequate funding. For example, if you shared your plan with us and we found that you would not have sufficient funds to meet your support needs, we could assist you to request a review from the NDIA. You can find out more in our previous post: Why we ask to see your plan.
Independent Assessments on hold
In December last year we shared the news that the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) had announced some proposed changes to the NDIS, including a policy for Independent Assessments. Many people in the disability community were concerned about the proposed changes and campaigned to stop them coming into effect.
On 15 April, Linda Reynolds, Minister for the NDIS stated that Independent Assessments would not be implemented until feedback from the current trials has been assessed, and further consultation across the sector had taken place. This is very welcome news for all those in the disability sector and community who were advocating for further consultation. The Every Australian Counts website has more information on the assessment hearing dates and how you can get involved.
Changes to Mambourin’s NDIS Team
The NDIS Transition Team was established prior to the rollout of the NDIS to support our community members in moving across to the scheme. Now, all eligible Mambourin community members have transitioned – but our work continues! For this reason, we decided it was time that we changed our name to reflect our ongoing role in supporting new and continuing community members with all things NDIS. We are now the NDIS and Intake Team.
Sadly, we recently farewelled one of our team members Lavinia, who has been given an exciting new opportunity outside the organisation. Lavinia joined our Mambourin family via Westnet, and was with us since 2007, contributing greatly to the NDIS team in recent years.
We would also like to say a big welcome to Roberto Lazaro – who you may know from his previous roles as Team Leader at Sunshine Community Hub, and most recently as Acting Manager at the Altona Community Hub. We look forward to having Roberto on the NDIS and Intake team from the middle of May.
Have questions?
We are here to help answer your questions – big or small. If you need any assistance, you can get in touch by phone: 9731 9200 or via email: vicki.o’neill@mambourin.org