To be eligible for the NDIS, you must:

• Be under 65 years of age when you first apply
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
• Have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to take part in everyday activities
• Need support now to reduce your future needs

If you're unsure about your eligibility, we can help guide you through the process and connect you with the right resources.

NDIS support typically lasts for the duration of your approved NDIS plan, which is usually 12 to 24 months. At the end of your plan period, you'll have a plan review where your goals, supports, and funding are reassessed. Based on this review, a new plan will be developed for the next period.

Some important points about NDIS support duration:

• Plan Length: Most participants receive plans that last for 12 months, though some may receive 24-month or 36-month plans if their support needs are stable.
• Lifetime Support: The NDIS is designed to provide lifetime support for eligible participants. As long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria, you can receive ongoing support through successive NDIS plans.
• Plan Reviews: Regular plan reviews ensure your supports remain appropriate for your changing needs and circumstances.
• Unscheduled Reviews: If your circumstances change significantly during your plan period, you can request an unscheduled review to adjust your supports and funding.

At Lumin Care Services, we work with you throughout your NDIS journey, providing consistent support across plan periods and helping you prepare for plan reviews to ensure your ongoing support needs are met.

Finding an NDIS-registered provider in Melbourne can be done through several methods:

1. NDIS Provider Finder: Use the official NDIS Provider Finder tool on the NDIS website. This searchable database allows you to filter providers by location, service type, and specialties.
2. Ask Your Support Coordinator: If you have a Support Coordinator, they can recommend suitable providers based on your needs, goals, and preferences.
3. Local Area Coordinator (LAC): Your LAC can provide information about registered providers in your area.
4. Online Research: Search for NDIS providers in Melbourne online and review their websites to learn about their services, values, and approach.
5. Ask for Recommendations: Speak with other NDIS participants, disability advocacy groups, or community organizations for provider recommendations based on their experiences.

When choosing a provider, consider factors such as:

• The specific services they offer
• Their experience with your particular needs
• Their location and service areas
• Their values and approach to support
• Feedback and testimonials from other participants

 We invite you to contact us to discuss how we can support your specific needs and goals.

Applying for NDIS funding involves several steps:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Before applying, check if you meet the NDIS eligibility criteria on the NDIS website. You must be under 65, have Australian residency, and have a permanent and significant disability.
2. Complete an Access Request: You can start your application by:
   • Calling the NDIS on 1800 800 110
   • Visiting an NDIS office in person
   • Contacting your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Partner

   You'll be asked to complete an Access Request Form or provide verbal consent for the NDIS to complete it with you.

3. Gather Supporting Evidence: You'll need to provide evidence of your disability, including:
   • Reports from your treating healthcare professionals
   • Information about your disability and how it impacts your daily life
   • Details of previous treatments and their outcomes
   • Information about how your disability is likely to affect you over your lifetime
4. Submit Your Application: Send your completed Access Request Form and supporting evidence to the NDIS. This can be done by mail, email, or in person at an NDIS office.
5. Wait for a Decision: The NDIS will assess your application and notify you of their decision, usually within 21 days. If more information is needed, this may take longer.
6. Planning Meeting: If your access request is approved, you'll be contacted to arrange a planning meeting. During this meeting, you'll discuss your goals, needs, and the supports required to help you achieve them.
7. Receive Your NDIS Plan: After your planning meeting, you'll receive an NDIS plan that outlines your goals and the funding allocated to different support categories.

The application process can be complex, and many people find it helpful to have support. While Lumin Care Services cannot apply for the NDIS on your behalf, we can provide guidance and information to help you navigate the process. Once you have your NDIS plan, we can help you understand how to use your funding effectively for the supports we provide.

Yes, one of the key principles of the NDIS is choice and control. You have the right to choose your service providers and change providers if you're not satisfied with the support you're receiving. To change providers:

1. Check Your Service Agreement: Review any notice periods or conditions for ending services.
2. Notify Your Current Provider: Inform them of your decision to change providers.
3. Contact New Providers: Research and reach out to new providers like Lumin Care Services.
4. Update Service Bookings: If you're NDIA-managed, ensure service bookings are updated in the myplace portal.

At Lumin Care Services, we make the transition process as smooth as possible for new participants. We'll work with you to understand your needs, develop a new service agreement, and ensure continuity of support during the transition.