Understanding NDIA Plans, Medicare Rebates and DSS (formerly FaHCSIA) Early Intervention Funding, Carer's Allowance and Carer's Payment

Information about NDIS (DisabilityCare Australia) and Medicare Rebates

Flowchart of Medicare Rebates and FaHCSIA funding available for children and adolescents who may have Autism Spectrum Disorders

Flowchart of Medicare Rebates and FaHCSIA funding available for children and adolescents with Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Fragile X, Hearing Impairment or Vision Impairment

Referral Information for General Practioners (GPs)

Referral Information for Paediatricians

Summary of all Medicare Rebates available for Psychology: Highest rebates are through "Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative". This requires a "Mental Health Care Plan" by a GP in relation to a mental health concern (i.e. social anxiety, anxiety around changes in routine). Parents can also refer for individual grief counselling & strategies, or a parent group program, to help them cope with having a child with a disability. 

Department of Human Services (formerly Centrelink) has two payments for families caring for people with disabilities: Carer's Allowance and Carer's Payment.  A parent or carer of an individual with a disability (including global developmental delay, moderate or severe intellectual disability, autism, Asperger's, Cerebral Palsy and Down Syndrome) can apply for the Carer's Allowance.  Carer's Payment is available where a person needs to give up work or study to care full-time for a person with a disability.

Victims Services (including victims and witnesses of Domestic Violence) call 1800 633 063 and a support coordinator can help you fill in an application for up to 22 hours free counselling from approved providers including Thom Sibbald (Sethmo by Safe Pathways) - Who is Eligible for counselling?,  How to apply for counselling