Page 2097 - Week 07 - Wednesday, 6 August 2014
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Disability services—transition schedule
MR WALL: My question is to the Minister for Disability. Minister, the transition schedule for eligible people to start their planning conversations with the National Disability Insurance Agency states that children born on or after 1 July 2012 are the first on the list to start accessing the NDIS. How many current clients of Therapy ACT in that age bracket have already transitioned to the scheme since 1 July?
MS BURCH: I do not have the numbers—most of that sits with the NDIA—but I am happy to bring back what I can. We are just a bit over a month through the introduction of the NDIA. The feedback I have had has been very positive. I know a number of families and individuals have started that planning process. I think there are only a number of completed plans, but that replicates what has happened in other jurisdictions as well, as everybody gets more comfortable with this. In short, I do not have the numbers. I can find out if I can secure those numbers out of the NDIA for you, Mr Wall.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Wall.
MR WALL: Minister, I imagine this will also be taken on notice: how many current clients of Therapy ACT in that age bracket have already been assessed and are still waiting to transition?
MS BURCH: Again, I will take that on notice, Mr Wall.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Ms Lawder.
MS LAWDER: Minister, how is Therapy ACT communicating with current clients about their eligibility for the NDIS?
MS BURCH: Therapy ACT is working with its existing clients and certainly making them aware of the timing of the transition schedule. The NDIA is also making contact with those individuals and families as well and inviting them in to the agency so they can commence the planning process.
It was a weekend or so ago when there was a very well-attended forum, a meet the providers forum, that was held, as I understand it, at Hedley Beare. I think 120 families went through that and really welcomed the opportunity to meet and talk firsthand with the providers we have.
Also, as I have made the commitment here—it will be part of my statement this afternoon—we have secured a date of 13 September for another expo with a particular focus on the younger children and their families for early intervention. Again, that is another great chance for the local community to meet those providers that are there at the ready to support them.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Ms Lawder.
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