From 1 July 2016, funding for prosthetic limbs and disability support in NSW changed for people under 65 years to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS provides funding for people with disability, including amputees, to enable them to be independent and participate in home, work and recreation. This includes funding for prosthetic limbs.
For those 65 years and older and not previously registered with the NDIS, EnableNSW assists people with a long-term disability or chronic health condition to live safely in their home.
EnableNSW administers the Prosthetic Limb Service for NSW Health and on behalf of the NSW Department of Veterans Affairs.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (under 65)
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australia-wide scheme. It is designed to help participants get the support they need so their skills and independence can improve over time.
To be eligible for the NDIS you must:
NDIS funding is provided directly to the individual.
Visit http://ndis.nsw.gov.au/
EnableNSW (over 65)
If you are already 65 years or over you will continue to receive funding support through the PLS, administered by EnableNSW. This feature support may also include MyAgedCare and you will be able to continue to attend your usual clinic and prosthetic service provider.
Visit EnableNSW: https://www.enable.health.nsw.gov.au/
Visit MyAgedCare: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/
Not yet an NDIS Participant and under 65?
If you haven’t yet applied to the NDIS, make sure that you make an Access Request as soon as possible so that you can begin the transition to the scheme.
You will need to apply for Access to the NDIS as any previous support funding allocation with EnableNSW, for those eligible to be funded under the NDIS, has been moved out of the EnableNSW budget for those not currently undertaking rehabilitation services post amputation.
Getting Started on Access
Applying for access to the NDIS is done via the NDIS Access Request Form (AFR), which you can find in our Resource page.
You will need to compile supporting information to include in your AFR, which provided via your help GP, Surgeon, Prosthetist etc. or recognised professional. It is important to note that in the process of filling in the AFR you will be asked specific questions about your condition as an amputee or limb difference which will be used to identify if you fit the NDIS expectations for disability.
These personal questions often are misinterpreted by the applicant because of personal perspective about your disability and your intuitive mind set on adaption. This misinterpretation can result in an eligible applicant being rejected.
If you would like assistance or guidance with your AFR and how to guide your health professional as they prepare material for the AFR, please give contact us. We are here to help make the process easier and recognition effective.
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Amputee Association of New South Wales Incorporated. Proudly supporting the amputee community of NSW since 1985. In partnership with EnableNSW.