Moving house is a challenging experience for anyone, but it can be particularly complex for individuals living with disabilities. If you’re an NDIS participant, you might wonder, Can NDIS help with moving house? The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving greater independence, and it may support certain aspects of moving house.
In this blog, we’ll explore the circumstances under which NDIS can help, provide insights into related services offered by Apex Support Services, and include practical tips to make your transition smoother.
Does NDIS Provide Support for Moving House?
The NDIS supports participants by funding disability-specific needs. While it won’t cover general moving costs, it may assist with services directly related to your disability or goals outlined in your NDIS plan.
“Yes, the NDIS offers assistance with moving house for participants when the relocation directly addresses disability-related needs. While moving is typically considered an everyday expense, exceptions are made for cases closely tied to enhancing accessibility or achieving NDIS plan goals, covering services like removalists and storage.“
Examples of NDIS Moving Support:
- Packing and unpacking belongings due to physical limitations.
- Moving to accessible housing or closer to critical support services.
- Relocation expenses are directly tied to disability-related requirements.
Fact: NDIS participants can access funding for moving support if it’s deemed reasonable and necessary to their plan.
Apex Support Services: Comprehensive Support for NDIS Participants
At Apex Support Services, we specialize in providing tailored assistance to NDIS participants. Our services are designed to address various needs, including moving house, to make your life more manageable and stress-free.
Here’s how we can assist:
Service | Description |
NDIS Household Tasks | Assistance with cleaning, packing, and unpacking during your move. |
In-Home Support NDIS | Personal care and domestic help before, during, and after relocation. |
NDIS Transport Services | Reliable transportation for moving-related tasks or exploring your new area. |
NDIS Support Coordination | Guidance in accessing relevant NDIS funding and organising service providers. |
When Can NDIS Assist with Moving House?
The NDIS funds moving house when it directly supports disability-related needs or goals. Some scenarios include:
1. Relocating to Accessible Housing
If your current home doesn’t meet your accessibility needs, such as wheelchair ramps or wide doorways, the NDIS may cover costs associated with relocating to a more suitable home.
2. Transitioning to NDIS Medium-Term Accommodation
Participants waiting for long-term housing solutions may move into NDIS Medium Term Accommodation (MTA). This transitional support includes funding for moving into temporary, disability-appropriate housing.
Tip: Ensure your MTA aligns with your broader NDIS plan goals to secure funding approval.
3. Enhanced Access to Services
If moving closer to healthcare facilities, therapy providers, or support networks improves your access to essential services, the NDIS may approve funding.
Fact: Proximity to support services can enhance overall quality of life, a key consideration for NDIS funding approvals.
What Does NDIS Consider When Funding Moving House?
When determining whether to fund moving-related expenses, the NDIS evaluates several factors:
Factor | Explanation |
Alignment with NDIS Plan | The move must support the goals in your current NDIS plan. |
Reasonable and Necessary Costs | Expenses must directly relate to your disability needs. |
Supporting Documentation | Medical reports and evidence showing how the move benefits your condition. |
Health and Safety Improvements | Relocation must address significant risks or challenges in your current living situation. |
Additional Services Offered by Apex Support Services
Beyond moving-related support, Apex Support Services, an NDIS Registered Provider, offers a range of NDIS-funded services to assist participants in achieving greater independence and well-being:
✦ Youth Disability Support
We help young individuals with disabilities access after-school programs, educational resources, and recreational activities to foster personal growth.
✦ After School Care Programs
Our after-school care services offer safe and engaging environments for children and teens with disabilities, helping them build skills and confidence.
✦ NDIS Psychosocial Disability Supports
For participants with mental health challenges, our psychosocial supports focus on building independence, improving social skills, and enhancing daily living capabilities.
✦ NDIS Domestic Assistance
We provide help with cleaning, laundry, and other household tasks, allowing participants to focus on their personal goals.
Tip: Pair services like domestic assistance and household tasks to streamline your moving process while meeting day-to-day needs.
Aspects of Moving Not Covered by NDIS
While the NDIS offers valuable support, some moving-related expenses are excluded, including:
- General costs like rent, deposits, and utility setup fees.
- Furniture and appliances not directly related to your disability.
- Luxury moving services.
Tip: Budget separately for non-NDIS-covered expenses to avoid unexpected costs.
Steps to Access NDIS Funding for Moving House
Here’s how you can secure funding for moving house through the NDIS:
- Consult Your Support Coordinator
Discuss your needs and determine whether the move aligns with your NDIS plan. - Gather Documentation
Obtain medical reports, therapy recommendations, and quotes for moving services. - Submit Your Request
Provide a detailed funding application outlining how the move supports your disability needs. - Engage Apex Support Services
Let us handle the complexities of your application and service coordination.
Tips for a Smooth Move
- Start Early: Begin planning your move at least two months in advance.
- Use NDIS Household Tasks Services: Take advantage of cleaning and unpacking assistance.
- Declutter Before Moving: Donate or discard unnecessary items to reduce workload.
- Hire NDIS-Experienced providers: Work with professionals familiar with NDIS requirements.
FAQs
1. Does NDIS fund furniture for my new home?
No, the NDIS only covers disability-specific equipment or modifications, such as adjustable beds or grab rails.
2. Can I use NDIS transport services for moving?
Yes, NDIS Transport Services may assist with relocation-related tasks if they align with your plan. Read more: How is NDIS Transport Funding Paid? Key Insights for Participants.
3. Will NDIS help if I move interstate?
Interstate moves may be supported if they improve access to essential disability-related services.
4. How can I check if my moving expenses are covered by NDIS?
You can consult your NDIS Support Coordinator Sydney or contact your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to review your plan and determine if your moving-related expenses qualify as reasonable and necessary.
Schedule an Appointment
Moving house doesn’t have to be stressful. Contact Apex Support Services today for expert advice and support tailored to your unique needs.
Conclusion
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can help with moving house when the relocation is tied to your disability needs or plan goals. While the scheme won’t cover general expenses, it provides valuable support for disability-related aspects of your move.
At Apex Support Services, we offer a wide range of NDIS-funded services, including household tasks, psychosocial support, and transport services, to make your transition seamless. With our expertise, you can focus on settling into your new home while we handle the logistics.
Feel free to contact Apex Support Services to explore how we can help you make your move a success!