NDIS and NABS – Important Information (Zoom information session)

Information for the deaf community and Auslan users regarding the NDIS

• Are you under 65?
• Are you an Australian citizen or a permanent resident of Australia?
• Do you use Auslan for medical appointments and other activities?

If you use NABS and you are under 65, you need to apply to join the NDIS to continue receiving free Auslan interpreting services.

What is happening to NABS for Deaf people under 65 years old?

Deaf people who have an NDIS plan with funds for Auslan support and choose NABS for interpreting must pay with their NDIS funds.

To access Auslan interpreting for medical appointments and other activities you will need to join the NDIS, and get an NDIS plan with funds in place to pay for Auslan interpreting.

Why apply to join the NDIS?

The NDIS provides funding to help you access the services and supports you need to help you achieve your goals.

If you need Auslan interpreting, the NDIS will provide you the fund into your NDIS plan.

When applying for NDIS, please provide NDIS your communication support and services when discussing with Local Area Coordinator. 

You can find your nearest Local Area Coordinator on the NDIA website.

You can find more information about the benefits of joining the NDIS on the NDIA Auslan page.

How do I apply to join the NDIS?

Please follow these steps to apply forthe NDIS by 23 December 2020.

Step One:

Contact the NDIA by calling 1800 800 110, using the National Relay Service, and let them know you want to apply for the NDIS.

Tell them you use Auslan interpreter when requesting for Access Request Form (Access Request Form is a NDIS application form).

You can pick up the Access Request Form from your local NDIS office, have the form posted or emailed to you or download it from the NDIS website.

If you need help filling in the form, contact an NDIS Local Area Coordinator or your local NDIS office. Find your closest office at www.ndis.gov.au.

Step Two:

Fill out the NDIS access request form. Include details about using Auslan services so it is included in your NDIS plan.

Step Three:

Send the completed NDIS form back to the NDIA.

Step Four:

NDIA will send you a letter, telling you if you are eligible for the NDIS. If the NDIA says you are ineligible for the NDIS please read the: What happens if I’m not eligible for the NDIS? section below.

TIP:

Applying for the NDIS can take time, so you need to start as soon as you receive your application form (Access Request Form).

To continue receiving Auslan interpreting you must have an approved NDIS plan, with funding for Auslan interpreting, before 31 March 2021. 

What happens if I’m not eligible for the NDIS?

If you are told you can’t have the NDIS you can still get free Auslan interpreting services for medical appointments from NABS until 31 March 2021, you will be required to show proof (letter from NDIS) that your application was unsuccessful. 

If you are over 65, you can continue to access NABS after 31 March 2021.

If you are not eligible for the NDIS and you are under 65, you can use the National Relay Service (Video Relay). Video Relay is available from 7am to 6pm (Eastern Standard Time) Monday to Friday, except for National Public Holidays.

Participate in Information Session via Zoom if you need more information.

Where can I find more information?