Ongoing COVID support for NDIS participants

Minister of the National Disability Insurance Program (NDIS), Hon. Bill Shorten wants to assure participants that they will continue to receive support through proportionate and targeted measures that reflect the significant health risks that many people with disabilities continue to face due to COVID-19.

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has updated its COVID-19 procedures to ensure continued support for participants and providers.

Among the updated temporary measures is the ability of eligible participants to use their NDIS plan funding to purchase a device such as a portable air purifier. This is intended to help improve air quality within the main living areas of their homes if necessary, to ensure that they continue to receive disability-related support safely in the home.

“The Albanian government will remain vigilant in ensuring the safety of Australians who are most vulnerable to the health effects of COVID-19,” Minister Shorten said.

Also, staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations is the best way that people with disabilities can protect themselves from serious illness and death.

The NDIA continues to support NDIS providers to facilitate community access to vaccination, and affordable Commonwealth arrangements remain in place for those in residential settings who do not have access to community channels.

Aeration and circulation of high-quality air is also critical to reducing risks. People with better air quality have better health and better prices.”

Updated measures for COVID-19 include:

• Inclusion of portable air purifiers as part of a flexible, low-cost assistive technology for eligible participants who are particularly at risk of COVID-19.
• Extension of Manpower Support Arrangements (until January 31, 2023) to provide additional cover during the Christmas and New Year period; And the
• Changes in support measures for independent living support providers, with claims for additional support moving from $1,200 per participant per day to $1,200 per household per day as the participant is required to self-isolate or quarantine.

These new measures are in line with the easing of mandatory isolation requirements across Australia from 14 October. They will help ensure the continued health and well-being of NDIS participants and the workers who support them.” Minister Shorten said.

/General release. This material from the original organization(s)(s) may be of a point in time nature, edited for clarity, style and length. The opinions and opinions expressed are those of the author(s). View it in full here.

Originally published at San Jose News Bulletin