Foolproof Plan to Help Children Access NDIS Support in Western Australia

By following this step-by-step plan, parents in Western Australia can successfully navigate the NDIS system and ensure their child receives the support they need while also prioritising family well-being.

 

Step 1:  Understand NDIS Eligibility

• Your child may be eligible if they have a permanent and significant disability or developmental delay that affects their ability to perform daily activities.

• The NDIS supports children under 7 through the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) pathway and older children through standard NDIS access.

• Visit the NDIS website or call 1800 800 110 to confirm eligibility criteria.

Step 2:  Common Diagnoses Eligible for NDIS Support

Children with the following conditions may be eligible for NDIS funding:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Intellectual Disability

• Global Developmental Delay

• Cerebral Palsy

• Down Syndrome

• Fragile X Syndrome

• Sensory Processing Disorder

• Hearing or Vision Impairments

• Neuromuscular Disorders

• Genetic Disorders impacting cognitive or physical function

Step 3: Gather Essential Documents

• Documents include medical reports and assessments from GPs, paediatricians, occupational therapists, speech therapists, or psychologists.

• A letter from a healthcare professional outlining the impact of your child's condition.

• Any school or daycare reports indicating challenges your child faces.

Step 4:  Submit a NDIS Access Request

• Call 1800 800 110 to request an Access Request Form or complete it online.

• Provide all supporting documents and answer all questions thoroughly.

• Submit via email, post, or in person at a local NDIS office.

Step 5:  Engage in a NDIS Planning Meeting

• If your child is approved, you will be contacted to arrange a planning meeting.

• Prepare by listing your child's daily needs, current supports, and future goals.

• Discuss funding for therapies, equipment, and support workers.

• Request family counselling support if needed, as the emotional toll can be significant.

Step 6:  Review and approve the NDIS Plan

• You will receive a plan outlining approved funding categories.

• Review it carefully and discuss any concerns with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Partner.

• If changes are needed, request a plan review.

Step 7:  Implement the Plan

• Choose service providers from the NDIS provider list or use self-managed funding.

• Engage therapists, support workers, and community programs.

• If your child’s needs change, keep records and prepare for plan reviews.

Step 8:  Contact Key Services

To make the most of your child’s NDIS plan, you will need to engage with various professionals, including:

• Plan Managers:  Assist with budgeting and payment of NDIS-funded services.

• Support Coordinators:  Help connect you with providers and services.

• Occupational Therapists (OTs):   Provide support for sensory processing, motor skills, and daily living tasks.

• Speech Therapists:  Assist with communication, speech development, and feeding concerns.

• Psychologists:  Support emotional and behavioural needs, including autism-related concerns.

• Paediatricians:  Provide medical oversight and referrals.

• Physiotherapists:  Help with mobility, posture, and movement-related concerns.

• Specialist Educators:  Provide strategies for learning and behaviour management.

• Family Counsellors:  Offer emotional support and guidance for family well-being.

Step 9: Maximise Your NDIS Funds

• Self or plan management:  This gives more flexibility in choosing service providers.

• Engage providers who offer group therapy:  This can be a cost-effective way to access support.

• Use assistive technology funding:  Apply for communication devices or sensory tools.

• Request periodic plan reviews:  Ensure that funding meets your child’s changing needs.

• Attend NDIS workshops and peer support groups:  Learn from other families how to best use funding.

Step 10:  How to Access School Supports:

• Meet with your child's teacher and school principal to discuss available support options.

• Provide a copy of your child's NDIS plan to the school if relevant.

• Request a meeting with the school's Student Services team or Special Needs Coordinator.

• Work with the school to develop an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) tailored to your child's needs.

• Advocate for in-school therapies and discuss how NDIS funding can be used to support your child in an educational setting.

Once your child has an NDIS plan, they may be eligible for additional school supports, including:

• Education Assistants (EAs): Schools can apply for additional staffing to support children with disabilities.

• Allied Health Services at School:  Occupational therapists, speech therapists, and psychologists can work with your child in the school setting.

• Assistive Technology:  Funding can be used for specialized equipment such as communication devices or sensory tools.

• Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs):  Schools can create tailored plans to support your child’s learning and development.

• Inclusion Support Services:  Schools can work with external inclusion specialists to make learning environments more accessible.

• Specialist School Programs:  Some schools offer specialized autism or disability programs for additional support.

Step 11: Benefits of Family Therapy, Parental Support, and Early Intervention

• Family Therapy:  Helps parents and siblings cope with challenges, improve communication, and strengthen family relationships.

• Parental Support:  Provides guidance on managing behaviours, implementing effective strategies, and reducing parental stress.

• Early Intervention Therapy:  Improves a child’s long-term outcomes in communication, social skills, motor function, and emotional regulation.

Step 12:  How Play Therapy Benefits Children Under 12

• Encourages Emotional Expression:  Helps children process emotions in a safe, structured environment.

• Enhances Social Skills:  Supports interaction with peers and improves turn-taking, sharing, and cooperation.

• Improves Cognitive and Problem-Solving Abilities:  Strengthens learning skills and adaptability through structured play activities.

• Supports Sensory Integration:  Helps neurodivergent children regulate sensory experiences and improve daily function.

• Builds Self-Confidence:  Encourages independence, creativity, and resilience through guided play.

Step 13:  Seek Family Counselling Support

• Coping with a child’s disability can be stressful for families.

• Access counselling through NDIS-funded services or private providers.

• Join local parent support groups or online communities for guidance and emotional support.

Step 14:  Monitor Progress and Plan for Reviews

• Track the effectiveness of supports and adjust where needed.

• Annual reviews will assess your child’s progress and evolving needs.

• Stay proactive and advocate for necessary changes in the next plan.