2016-11-10
The delay in signing the NDIS agreement has again left people with disabilities uncertain about what their future holds, Greens spokesperson for Disability Services Lynn MacLaren MLC has said.
“Once again it has been left to the Greens asking a question in parliament to shine a light on how and when people with disabilities will be able to access funding after WA transitions to the NDIS,” Ms MacLaren said.
“At best, people who miss out on the current funding round under the old system will need to wait eight months before they can make another application.
Ms MacLaren said the Minister for Disabilities admitted people outside of the current WA NDIS and NDIS trial sites will be forced to wait until July 2017 before they will be eligible to access the new funding – on the basis of individual plans.
“I advise people seeking funded support to prioritise undertaking a planning process with their local area coordinator to ensure they are eligible to apply as soon as the funds are available,” she said.
“Many people who have previously been told they were ineligible for assistance may now qualify under the new scheme.
“We don't know how many people there are out there that have previously been told they're not eligible for support but would be eligible now under NDIS.
“These people must get in contact with the DSC to avoid further delays in assistance.
“Whatever is happening in negotiations with the Commonwealth it is vital that the people at the heart of this – those whose daily lives are most affected - are kept informed and given some certainty.”
Related portfolios: Disability Services