Supporting Individuals living with Autism: How the NDIS Can Help

However, because autism is a spectrum disorder, eligibility and support options available are not always simple and straightforward. That is why we created this helpful guide to outline how children and adults living with autism can access NDIS funding and understand the supports available to help them achieve their goals and live a good life.

What are NDIS eligibility criteria for individuals living with ASD?

Not all individuals living with autism can access the NDIS. This is because NDIS eligibility criteria are based on the level of ASD an individual has. While those who have a Level 2 or Level 3 ASD diagnosis are approved automatically, individuals who have a Level 1 diagnosis are required to provide further information to support their case. This can be done by showcasing how autism affects certain aspects of their life, for example: communication, social interaction, learning, mobility, self-care and self-management. Typically, the more supporting evidence provided, the higher the chances of approval. This is because supporting documentation allows assessors to better understand an individual's personal circumstances, their needs and the impact autism has on their life.

Can children with autism access the NDIS?

Children aged seven and above can access the NDIS via the standard NDIA pathway and will be assessed for eligibility as described above. Children younger than seven can access support via the Early Childhood Approach (ECA) pathway without the need to become an NDIS participant. 

The Early Childhood Approach scheme is intended for children aged 0-6 who have a developmental delay or present developmental concerns. The key objective of the scheme is to identify and address the developmental needs of young children as early as possible. This is because early intervention can have a great impact on their early development as well as long term outcomes.

There is a range of supports available through ECA:

• assistance from allied health professionals, such as speech pathologists, occupational therapists or physiotherapists
• pointing parents to the right services available in their community, 
• empowering parents with the relevant and necessary information, 

Learn more about the Early Childhood Approach and how to access it.

What type of support is available for individuals with autism?

Because each NDIS participant is different, the support available depends on individual needs and plan goals. For example, if a participant's goal is to increase their social skills and make new friends in the community, they can spend their NDIS funding on joining a local social club. Or if their goal is to achieve greater mobility, they can use their funding towards physical or occupational therapy. 

The aim of the support is to help participants achieve their NDIS goals and live as independently as possible. Some of the supports often used by NDIS participants with autism include:

• Physical and occupational therapy - include activities that can help improve motor skills, coordination and overall mobility.
• Behavioural support - can help participants learn how to manage certain behaviours or improve social skills, for example with Positive Behaviour Support. 
• Social and recreational activities - include activities that can help improve social skills or with participating in the local community, for example, dance classes or team bowling.
• Assistive technology - includes items that support sensory development and processing such as fidget spinners or kinetic sand.
• Support workers - can help participants with daily activities inside and outside of home, for example, assist with personal care or attend swimming lessons.

If you or someone you care for has autism and could benefit from the help of a support worker, Hireup can help find dedicated and experienced Support Workers who can assist with daily activities, skills development and community participation. You can find out more through our website or get in touch by emailing hello@hireup.com.au or calling (02) 9113 5933.