A discussion paper for developing a Digital Partnership Program (DPP), intended to make it easier for participants to connect and interact with providers, has been released.
The discussion paper has called for ideas around:
- What kind of tools, apps, and other digital products would be attractive for development;
- How the NDIS can best work with providers and software developers;
- What specific functionality or Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) the market would like as part of the NDIS; and
- What terms, conditions and data registered providers, unregistered providers and software developers accessing APIs should variously agree to.
NDIS Minister Stuart Robert said the discussion paper builds on government plans to deliver the NDIS, through market innovation and improved technology, and is inviting participants, providers and innovators to submit feedback.
“We know the value of emerging technologies and the importance of leveraging innovation offered by the broader market to improve the experience and access to supports for all NDIS participants. The DPP will enable the development of a new range of digital services at a faster pace under a digital marketplace model,” the minister said.
It represents an important step towards innovating the NDIS and improving how participants, providers and the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) all connect and work together.
APIs will allow digital partners who subscribe to securely connect with NDIA systems and more efficiently manage their day to day work, increasing the capacity of NDIS providers and the market to deliver better services to NDIS participants.
The first phase of the DPP will be available from March 2, 2020, with the release of an initial suite of APIs for registered NDIS providers.
Consultation on the DPP is open until midnight AEDT, Sunday March 22, 2020.
For more information on the consultation paper go to: https://www.ndis.gov.au/community/have-your-say/digital-partnership-program