The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) covers the cost of disability support for participants who need it and replaces state and territory government-run schemes, providing you with choice and control over your care arrangements. With so many housing options available to NDIS participants, it can be difficult to know where to start your search and how to narrow down the options while staying within your budget.
Here are some ways to find the right NDIS housing Melbourne option under budget to make your life easier.
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Higher needs support
Your specific plan will dictate your level of support. However, if you have high care needs, consider how you’ll pay for them. If you live in an NDIS housing option with shared rooms, are there other people sharing a room who may be able to provide help and support? Are there additional Services that can assist with meal preparation or personal hygiene? Is there access to public transport nearby so family and friends can visit you frequently? All these questions should be considered when choosing NDIS housing options.
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Choosing a place that suits you and your family
You may be eligible for an NDIS package but are still not sure where you want to live. You could move into a supported-living apartment in a suburban area, where there’s 24-hour care. This can be appropriate if you are recovering from an illness or injury. On the other hand, some people with disabilities prefer living in their own home in their local community. With support, they can manage just as well as anyone else and have a rich social life with friends and family.
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Does it include extra supports like transport or meals?
What are your financial circumstances? Do you want to buy a house, or rent it? If you’re looking at buying, are you able to get extra help if your budget is tight? Are there community transport options in place for people with disabilities and would you need additional funding for that? And what about meals – does the housing option give them as part of a package or will they be extra? These are just some of the things that should be considered when looking into NDIS housing.
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Is it close to public transport, shops, medical services, parks etc?
To live independently, you will need access to a wide range of services. Check that your chosen NDIS housing Melbourne option has easy access to shops, medical services and other facilities. Is it close enough for you or someone who helps with your daily activities (e.g. a carer) to get around on foot?
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Would an accessible place work best for you and your family?
It is important to consider whether you need a ground-floor apartment, or whether you are able to live on an upper floor with a wheelchair lift. This will help you narrow down your options when it comes time to choose. If you have a young family, there may also be other considerations. For example, if there are stairs in your home and you want to carry your child up and down safely, then having an accessible unit might not work for you.