In the uncertain climate of COVID-19, policies and support systems have been put in place to support people with disability but how will this impact the future of the interface of the NDIS with health systems? Steven will provide an insight into how the NSW Ministry of Health are working alongside the NDIA to improve on the interface, strategies and initiatives in a physically distancing world, including the increased use of technology to improve access by PWD to services including health services.

Professor David Gilchrist will provide insights take from his recently published whitepaper into ensuring the sustainability of the NDIS, which will explore:

• Looking beyond the NDIS and at the scope of disability as a whole system
• How not-for-profits and charitable providers can assist within their capacity alongside consumer and advocacy
• Advise, suggestions and recommendation on the way forward for the NDIS

Leonie, parent, carer and advocate will draw on the lived experiences of caring and self-managing her son. Leonie will share her knowledge on what it is like to live with disability and will provide practical tips on how she self manages the plans, adapting to COVID-19 as well as ensuring inclusivity and how to battle stigmas.

• How are children with permanent disabilities covered by legislation?
• The difference between a chronic illness and permanent disability for children and how this affects the their NDIS support and their school time
• What if the disability isn’t permanent? How are the children covered then?
• How we ensure that all children with non/permanent disabilities are supported to get the best education and if time is missed, this is given back

This address will draw on the lived experience of Pauline Luchetta, advocate and mother to Cassidy. In understanding her story, attendees will have the opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of NDIS self-management, how this is intertwined with partial plan management and when successful the achievements it can bring.  Pauline will also acknowledge the challenges faced and how these can be avoided through practical tips and advice for participants self-managing.

• The Interim Report and what this will mean for providers and recommended framework
• Working alongside the Commonwealth to provide a solution-focused approach

There are significant challenges for providers delivering services to participants with complex support needs. This session will discuss the operational risks and compliance challenges for providers working in this space, the impact of price controls on quality and safety, and the issues that shape supply and demand for complex supports.

Join CIVIC as they facilitate a client led conversation about the journey (and challenges) face when finding the right home.

• Specialist Concierge Service
• Partner and working alongside existing frameworks
• Pushing the boundaries and what other options that they can offer

Diana will present recent research by UNSW Centre for Social Impact and IDEAS on Information Systems that support people with disability to make decisions.

• Choice and control cannot exist unless it is informed choice
• LACS (Local Area Co-ordinators) need information supports to preserve their independence and grow inclusion in communities
• The NDIS can better support the information needs of their participants and other key stakeholders in the system, accelerating market change, and assist in safeguarding individuals