Category: Uncategorized

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to affect the way NDIS participants receive supports, it’s important to remember that some COVID related expenses may be funded within your plan.

Below we list some items that can assist participants in staying safe and healthy during the pandemic.

This information was sourced from the NDIS website. 

Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) 

Can I claim the cost of RATs through my NDIS plan?

NDIS participants that need to use a RAT in order to receive reasonable and necessary supports, may be eligible to purchase RAT’s through their core supports. 

For example, if a participant needs to complete a test twice a week to attend their regular day program they may be able to request a reimbursement for RAT’s purchased for this use. 

It’s important to remember that the tests claimed through your NDIS plan can only be used to access NDIS supports and not for personal use. 

What category will RATs be claimed from in my NDIS plan?

The cost of a RAT will be deducted from the core category of an NDIS plan. Funds are flexible within this category. If you’re plan managed with BudgetNet you can check your monthly statement, budget tracking app or contact us on 1300 402 568 to check your funding levels.

If you are concerned about not having enough core funding to cover this purchase, you can contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110. 

How many RATs can I claim through my NDIS plan?

NDIS participants can purchase the necessary number of tests needed to receive their reasonable and necessary supports. This will look different for each person based on the number of supports they receive on a weekly basis and the testing requirements for these supports. 

Can I claim a test for my support worker? 

If your support worker needs to take a test to ensure they are COVID negative and therefore safe to deliver your supports, you may also purchase a RAT for them.

You cannot claim RAT’s for social visitors to your home. The purchase of a RAT is only for NDIS participants and their support workers in order to access NDIS supports. 

I’ve purchased RATs in order to access my NDIS supports, how do I get the money back?

If you are plan managed with BudgetNet, send us your valid receipt and we will reimburse the amount into your nominated account. It’s important to check your core funding level to ensure there are enough funds to cover this purchase before you make the payment.  

Find out more about claiming a refund through your NDIS plan. 

How long can I claim RATs through an eligible NDIS plan?

These measures will remain in place while the pandemic continues to affect the way participants receive supports.  We will continue to update you with any changes made by the NDIS and update our information accordingly.

Accessing free rapid antigen tests (RATs) 

You may also be eligible to receive up to 10 RATs over a 3 month period (Max 5 per 1 month) through community pharmacies. This initiative is through the Department of Health and does not require payment through your NDIS plan. 

As of January 24th, 2022, you can access free RATs if you hold an eligible Commonwealth concession card:

• Commonwealth Seniors Health Card 
• Low Income Health Card 
• Pensioner Concession Card 
• Health Care Card 
• Department of Veteran’s Affairs Gold, White or Orange

Give your local pharmacy a call before visiting to ensure they have supplies and are a participating pharmacy. 

For more information visit the Department of Health website. 

 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

Can I use my NDIS funds to pay for PPE such as masks, face shields, and gloves?

NDIS participants can use their NDIS funds to make this purchase if:

• They are using the PPE to access reasonable and necessary supports 
• The items are being used when your support worker is providing supports and not for personal use such as visiting the grocery shops by yourself. 
• You’re receiving a minimum of 1 hour a day of face to face supports on average 

Note: You cannot claim more than $50 per week on eligible PPE purchases

How is PPE funded within an NDIS plan? 

PPE will be claimed from the core category of an NDIS plan within the Disability-Related Health Consumables- Low-Cost support line item: 03_040000919_0103_1_1 

Can hand sanitizer purchases be claimed from my NDIS plan? 

Generally, no this would be considered an everyday personal expense. In the circumstance that you receive close personal support and start to use a larger amount of hand sanitizer than you would in normal circumstances, you may be able to claim the costs of the additional hand sanitizer used.   

We suggest reaching out to our team on 1300 402 568 to discuss your individual circumstances. 

Low Cost AT to access telehealth and online supports 

Can I use my NDIS funding to buy a tablet or laptop?

You may be able to purchase a tablet or laptop using your existing NDIS funds if:

• It helps you access current supports that may have changed to online 
• The provider must confirm in writing that the item is necessary in order to continue the service in a safe way, considering government restrictions and social distancing guidelines
• You don’t already have the item or something similar that would do the same job 
• Tablets/iPads must be wi-fi only, if you would like one with a data connection you will need to pay the additional upgrade fee from your own pocket
• General apps or software cannot be funded. Apps that relate to your disability and have been specifically approved within a plan may be funded, this is on an individual basis. 

Note: a standard tablet i.e an iPad should generally cost no more than $600 

What category will this funding come from in my NDIS plan?

While the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the way you purchase Assistive Technology will remain flexible. You may use your Core- Consumable budget for low-cost AT purchases (up to $1500). 

You must not spend more than $750 on electronic devices in order to continue receiving supports in a COVID safe manner. 

For more on flexible low-cost AT for support continuity visit the NDIS website. 

Here are some helpful links from the NDIS:

• Using you budget for COVID related supports 
• Plan flexibility
• Health and Safety

Our team of NDIS experts can assist with your COVID related support needs. Reach out on 1300 402 568 or email ndis@budgetnet.com.au.  

Signing up to BudgetNet Plan Management is simple.

Complete our electronic service agreement or call our friendly team on 1300 402 568 and we will complete your set up over the phone.

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology or AT is a piece of equipment, software or device that helps people with disabilities live a more independent life. Examples of AT can be anything from an app on your smart device that reads text out loud to a prosthetic leg. With technology advancing so much over the years, the AT options are endless and truly making life easier than ever.

What is Low-Cost Assistive Technology?

This category is for purchases under $1500. Generally, these items are available off the shelf and are not customised. However, like all purchases through an NDIS plan, these items must be related to your disability (not considered an everyday item) and relate to the goals set out in your NDIS plan.

These items will fall under the plan category: Core Consumables

Examples of some items that may not be funded are weighted blankets, standard TV, mobile phones (that are not adapted due to your disability), and general household furniture.

Here is a guide to some of the Low-Cost Assistive Technology that may be funded within an NDIS plan. It’s important to remember that each item is funded based on the individual needs of the participant so always check with the NDIS if the item is covered for you.

General & Personal Items

• Continence products
• Key turner aid
• Smart lights
• Door handle grip
• Visual fire alarm
• Walking Stick
• Talking clock

Kitchen Items

• Electric can opener
• Adapted cutlery
• Talking microwave
• Easy tap turner
• Safety gloves (cut resistant)

Lounging Items

• Noise-cancelling headphones
• Smart device holder
• Specialised seat cushions

What is Mid Cost Assistive Technology?

This category is for purchases between $1500 to $5000. These items may be harder to choose and setup on your own. You will need to get an Occupational Therapist (OT) to assess your need and create a report and submit to the NDIS for approval.

These items will fall under the plan category: Capital Budget (the item may be listed in your plan as a stated item, which means the funding has been set aside and can only be used for purchasing that specific item)

Here is a guide to some of the Mid Cost Assistive Technology that may be funded within an NDIS plan. It’s important to remember that each item is funded based on the individual needs of the participant, so always check with the NDIS if the item is covered for you.

General & Personal Items

• Custom made shoes

Lounging Items

• Pressure mattress
• Custom shower chair

What is High-Cost Assistive Technology?

This category is for purchases over $5000. These items are usually a stated item listed in the plan and discussed with the planner during the planning process.

These items will fall under the plan category: Capital Budget (As these items are usually stated in the plan, the funding is set aside specifically for this purchase and cannot be used for anything else)

Here is a guide to some of the High-Cost Assistive Technology that may be funded within an NDIS plan. It’s important to remember that each item is funded based on the individual needs of the participant, you must receive NDIS approval before purchasing any of the below.

General & Personal Items

• Custom wheelchair
• Prosthetics

Kitchen Items

• Renovations e.g., custom kitchen to suit participants needs

Lounging Items

• Ceiling hoist
• Powered bed
• Custom furniture

4 steps to purchasing Assistive Technology

Step 1: Work out what you need

You may wish to trial certain items to see their impact on your daily life or reach out to an Occupational Therapist (OT) who will complete an assessment and make recommendations. For higher cost items, this step will take place BEFORE a planning meeting so you can discuss the outcomes with your planner and ensure funding is made available in your new plan.

Step 2: Get a quote

Next, find the item or engage with a provider who can create a quote based on the OT’s recommendations.

Once you have the quote you may need to submit that along with any reports completed by the OT to the NDIS for approval. If the item is listed in your plan, the funding has already been allocated for this purchase and you may not need NDIS approval.

Step 3: Your purchase is approved by the NDIS, now organise payment

At this stage, your item has been approved by the NDIS.

Send through a copy of the quote to BudgetNet and we will ensure you have enough funding in your plan to cover the cost.

Once you have checked your funding, ask the provider to proceed with creating an invoice for payment.

The provider can send this directly to BudgetNet or you can send it through yourself, whatever works best for you. Payment will be processed.

Step 4: Get your items

The best part! The invoice has been paid and you are ready to receive your items and start enjoying the benefits of assistive technology.

This step can take a while as some items are custom made/ installed. Chat to your provider before this step to see how long they believe it will take so there are no surprises.

Visit our NDIS Directory and search for providers in your area that offer Assistive Technology. Our team are experts in NDIS Assistive Technology funding, if you have any questions we’re here to help- 1300 402 568 or email ndis@budgetnet.com.au

Helpful Links:

https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/assistive-technology-explained

https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/assistive-technology-explained/assistive-technology-repairs-maintenance-and-replacement

https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/supports-you-can-access-menu/equipment-and-technology/assistive-technology

While the NDIS is constantly changing, one thing is for sure, understanding your NDIS plan is the best way to ease some NDIS stress. Let’s jump straight into it…

NDIS plans are broken up into 3 main categories- Core Supports, Capacity Building Supports & Capital Supports.

If this isn’t your first NDIS plan you have probably come across those category names before. However, under each main category there are different support categories. To have supports/services/items funded through an NDIS plan they must fall within the outline of a support category. Below we break down what is covered in each of these categories. Visit the NDIS Price Guide for detailed descriptions on each of the support categories listed below.

The information below is only a small snapshot/example of some items that may or may not be funded within your NDIS plan. Each NDIS plan is different based on the persons individual circumstances, disability and goals. Because of this, if you are unsure if an item/support can be covered within your NDIS plan, we suggest contacting the NDIS on 1800 800 110, chatting with your Support Coordinator, LAC or ECEI, or your plan manager before purchasing the item/accessing the service.

Quotable supports*

Items with an asterisk (*) in the table below mean this is a quotable item/support, e.g. meal delivery*. Funding for these supports can only be claimed if it has been specifically included in the plan. More information/approval is required BEFORE you can purchase or access these supports. This is done on an individual basis, so reach out to the NDIS or your plan manager to chat about your situation. You may be asked to provide:

• a report from an allied health or medical professional
• A quote from your chosen provider that outlines your requirements and the funds needed

You may also like to check out another helpful BudgetNet article: “What does the NDIS pay for?” for more details around Reasonable & Necessary supports.

Core Supports

Core supports help participants with their everyday needs and is the most flexible funding within an NDIS plan. Generally, the budget can be used across all 4 support categories, however, there are a few restrictions- especially within the transport budget.

Capacity Building Supports

Capacity Building Supports help participants build their skills and independence. The funding within each support category is not flexible and can only be used for approved items/supports that fall within that support category.

Capital Support

Capital Supports are available to participants who require higher cost assistive technology, equipment and home or vehicle modifications. Funding can only be used to purchase these specific items and usually require an Occupational Therapist report and approval from the NDIA prior to purchase.

We’ve tried to make this category breakdown as easy as possible and hope it has helped to understand where your services/items funding will be drawn from. Don’t forget, our team are experts with NDIS categories!

When you’re plan managed with BudgetNet you will receive a monthly statement which gives you the available funding you have in each of these support categories. It’s an easy way to keep track of how much you’ve spent and what you have remaining in your NDIS plan budget.

For more information about you NDIS funding you can contact:

• The expert plan managers here at BudgetNet, reach out to us on 1300 402 568
• The NDIS by calling 1800 800 110 or email enquiries@ndis.gov.au
• Your NDIS delegate/planner, Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Partner (ECEI)
• Your Support Coordinator

If you’re interested in accessing BudgetNet Plan Management, reach out to the team on 1300 402 568 or learn more about our simple registration process.

Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) is a way the NDIS provides supports for children aged under 7 years old with a developmental delay or disability. Below we guide you through how ECEI works and how Plan Management can assist your family on the ECEI journey. 

What is ECEI?

ECEI is in place to ensure children with a disability or developmental delay are supported to access their community and reach their goals. The program is available for children between 0 – 6 years old and aims to provide assistance early on to minimise the number of complex supports they may require in the future. 

How does it work? 

Step 1: Contact an Early Childhood Partner

The best way to contact an Early Childhood Partner is through the NDIS. Contact them directly on 1800 110 800 or visit the NDIS website. 

You will need to provide written statements from your child’s teachers, family, treating doctor or specialist to highlight why they might benefit from accessing ECEI. The statement should outline your child’s diagnosis or developmental delay and how it impacts their life. The NDIA will confirm if your child is eligible to access the program. 

Step 2: Work out your child’s support needs

Your Early Childhood Partner will work with you to understand the appropriate supports needed to allow your child to reach their goals. They will also assist you to access community health centers, educational settings, and playgroups. 

Step 3: Referral Services 

Now that your child’s needs are understood an ECEI plan will be developed. At this point, you can request how you wish to manage your plan’s funding. Find out more about the ways to manage your plan. If you would like more information on how Plan Management works, feel free to reach out to our friendly team on 1300 402 568. You can also download our Request for Plan Management form, to bring along with you to your planning meeting. 

Step 4: Begin receiving supports 

Once your plan is completed you can begin accessing the services your child requires.  

How can a Plan Manager like BudgetNet assist your child on their ECEI journey? 

As parents/carers, it can be stressful to understand and implement your child’s ECEI plan. To make it less stressful, consider having your child’s NDIS plan, plan managed by BudgetNet. 

Plan Management is when a company such as BudgetNet takes care of all your provider payments/invoices on your behalf. 

Here are the top benefits to Plan Management:

• Flexibility: You can access registered or non-registered providers giving you more options when it comes to the items/services you access. 
• Trusted Advice: Our team of chartered accountants and NDIS experts are here to assist you with any questions, advice, or issues you may have. No long wait times and the ability to speak with the same team member means gives you a truly personalised experience. 
• Access to a real-time Budget App: Download our app to your smart device and have your child’s funding information available 24/7 from the palm of your hand. 
• Simple refunds: If you purchase an item with your own money we may be able to reimburse you for your purchase. Read more about claiming refunds.

What happens once your child turns 7? 

If your child has a permanent disability and you would like them to continue to receive supports, you may wish to transition over to the NDIS. To do so, you will be required to provide a formal diagnosis. The NDIS will contact you before your child’s 7th birthday to ensure the transition is as easy as possible. 

Do you have any questions regarding ECEI? Or questions about how Plan Management might work for your family? Reach out to us on 1300 402 568. 

Already received an ECEI plan and want to sign up with BudgetNet now? Sign our electronic service agreement, we will have your account setup within 24 hours and one of our friendly staff will reach out to introduce ourselves and answer any of your questions. 

Here at BudgetNet, we know how hard it can be to understand the NDIS. Below we list the most common words you will come across on your NDIS journey.

PEOPLE

NDIS: National Disability Insurance Scheme, support for people living with disabilities.

NDIA: National Disability Insurance Agency, the government department that implements the NDIS.

Participant: Someone who has been approved for the NDIS.

Nominee: Someone who can make decisions on behalf of a participant.  

Planner: Someone who works for the NDIA, their job is to create NDIS plans for participants.

Support Coordinator: Someone who works for a participant to implement their plan and connect them to services/supports to reach their goals.

LAC: Local Area Coordinator, works for the NDIA and will help write and manage your plan. They will also connect you with new services or supports.

ECEI Coordinator: Early Childhood Early Intervention Coordinator, assigned to children aged 0 – 6 years old by the NDIA. They will help children access the NDIS, help create their plan and connect them to services/supports.

Registered Provider: has completed the registration through the NDIS and can be used by all participants.

Non-Registered Provider: has not completed registration through the NDIS, can still work with self or plan managed participants.

PLAN

NDIS Plan: Each participant receives a plan showing how much funding they have in different categories to use on services or supports.

Plan Goals: When a planner creates your plan, they will include the goals you want to reach. All supports or items purchased using your NDIS funding must relate to the goals in your plan.

Funding: This is the money made available to participants as part of their NDIS Plan

Categories: An NDIS plan is broken up into 3 main categories- Core Supports, Capital Supports, Capacity Building

Core Supports: This part of your plan is split into four sections: Assistance with Daily Living, Transport, Assistance with Social & Community Participation, and Consumables. Funding is flexible across all four sections of this category.

Capital Supports: This part of your plan is for higher-cost assistive technology, equipment, home or vehicle modifications, and specialist disability accommodation.

Capacity Building: This part of your plan is to help you build skills and independence. It covers support coordination, plan management, allied health, employment, and health and wellbeing.

Item Number/Line Item: The unique code that tells the NDIS which category to claim the funding from a participant’s plan. The NDIS price guide outlines all the line items under each category.

Price Limit/Price Cap: Each line item includes a price cap. This is the maximum amount the NDIS will pay for supports/items using that line item. Take a look at the NDIS price guide to check the price caps.

MANAGEMENT 

Plan Management: Where a company like BudgetNet pays a participant’s providers on their behalf using their NDIS funding.

Self-Management: Where a participant, family member or nominee manages all NDIS payments.

Agency Management: All payments are managed by the NDIA.

Learn more about the different management types. 

OTHER

Service Agreement: A document that outlines what a provider is agreeing to offer a participant. This is a legal agreement that is signed by the provider and participant.

There is a lot to understand when it comes to the NDIS. BudgetNet can help answer your questions. Reach out to our team by calling 1300 402 568 or email ndis@budgetnet.com.au

Need a Plan Manager? Learn more about our Plan Management services.

Some changes have been made to the way a participant claims a refund through their NDIS plan. The NDIS now requires a receipt or tax invoice with an ABN included for all payments to be processed. Take a look at what receipts are acceptable in order to have your refund processed…

Participants can make purchases and claim the money back through their NDIS plan, as long as:

1. The item must be considered reasonable & necessary by the NDIS (Visit the NDIS guidelines for more detail)
2. There are available funds within the correct category of your NDIS plan
3. An approved receipt or tax invoice is sent along with the request for refund

It is preferred that an Australian Business Number (ABN) be included on all receipt’s or tax invoice’s from the business you made the purchase.

Here are examples of acceptable receipts we need a copy of, in order to process your refund:

RECEIPT                                             TAX INVOICE

Here are some examples of forms of receipts we CANNOT except:

EFTPOS RECEIPT         BANK TRANSFER SCREENSHOT      SCREENSHOTS OF ORDER CONFIRMATIONS

Items you will NOT be able to claim a refund for:

X Second-hand items, purchased from another person who is NOT a business

X Bank transfer into another account without a Tax Invoice

If you are unsure if the item you would like to purchase will be covered within your NDIS plan, please contact our team before making the purchase on 1300 402 568.

To submit your refund Budgetnet:

Email – ndis@budgetnet.com.au

SMS – 0428 583 575

Mail- PO Box 28, Melton, VIC 3337

Include:

• A copy of an approved receipt/tax invoice
• The participants full name and NDIS number

We will process the refund into the bank account on file.

If you need to update your bank account details, please include: updated BSB, Account Number and Account Name.

For more information on refunds feel free to reach out to our team on 1300 402 568 or email ndis@budgetnet.com.au.