A mobile phone app developed to make it easier for NDIS participants to self-manage their plans has been launched by the National Disability Insurance Agency.
Participants, nominees and child representatives who self-manage their NDIS plan can use the app to view their self-managed budget as well as make and manage claims on the go.
The agency has been working with participants and the disability sector to create the ‘my NDIS’ app to make sure it has the right functionality and meets the accessibility needs of people with disability.
Accessibility is also a key focus of the app which meets international web accessibility and WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards with features that include compatibility with screen readers and options for high contrast and magnification.
NDIS Minister Linda Reynolds said the app is all about making the NDIS simpler, easier and more flexible. “Participants told us that they would like an app, like a banking app,” she said.
Feedback came from a pilot, workshops, surveys and one-on-one time with NDIA participants and staff. More than 200 participants, families and carers volunteered to use the app and gave the NDIA over 700 pieces of feedback to make sure the app was accessible, user-friendly and met their needs.
“One of the benefits of designing the app with participants is that they can see their ideas and feedback come to life,” the minister said.
The next step is for the NDIA to make the app available for all participants, regardless of how they manage their NDIS funds, the minister said. “The ‘my NDIS’ app will also be integrated into myGov in the future to provide users a more streamlined digital experience when managing their government services.”
According to Down Syndrome Australia CEO, Dr Ellen Skladzien families who have tested the app said it was “easier to interact with the agency and to lodge payment requests.”
The free app is now available for download to both Apple and Android devices. More information about ‘my NDIS’ app is available on the NDIS website.