The Australian and Western Australian Governments have reached an agreement to bring WA into the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The agreement replaces the agreement signed in January 2017 by the previous Western Australian Government for a WA administered NDIS.

From 1 July 2018, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will assume responsibility for the delivery of the NDIS in Western Australia. Today’s announcement reflects the shared commitment by Australian Governments to the NDIS and is the final step towards making the NDIS a national scheme.

The NDIS will continue to roll out on a geographic basis and will be fully rolled out across Western Australia by 2020. People already taking part in the WA NDIS will transfer to the nationally delivered scheme in a phased approach from April 2018 and conclude by December 2018.

The Australian and Western Australian governments will work closely with the NDIA to implement the transition with information sessions for people with disability and service providers ahead of the progressive roll out of the NDIS.

For people with disability, their families and carers  the MY NDIS Pathway is the best starting point for information about the NDIS, how to access the NDIS and planning process. For service providers who have not already registered with the NDIS, the Provider Toolkit is a user-friendly online tool that takes providers through the seven steps of the Provider Pathway with step-by-step guides, videos, FAQs and interactive e-learning activities.

The announcement is well timed for the first ATSA Independent Living Expo that will be held in Perth from May 30-31, 2018.

The Expo will display a wide range of products and services in assistive technology, mobility solutions, pressure care, employment support, accessible recreation/holiday ideas, modified motor vehicles and more. The event is open to visitors of all ages, including those with disability, family, friends and carers. Admission is free to therapists, healthcare professionals,  the general public, end users and ATSA members.

For more information visit: www.ndis.gov.au