The NDIS recognises that people with hearing loss can face challenges with daily activities, personally and professionally.
If your hearing loss is permanent and significantly impacts your daily life, you may be eligible for NDIS funding. This funding can help to improve your quality of life and empower you to participate in the community.
Let’s take a look at the eligibility criteria for NDIS funding for hearing loss, how to apply and what support may be available to you.
Is hearing loss covered by NDIS funding?
In Australia hearing services are funded through two main programs:
– The Hearing Services Program (HSP)
– The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Which program funds your supports will depend on your age and eligibility. In some cases, you can access both, but you cannot receive the same support from both programs at the same time.
If you are eligible for HSP funding and are under 26 years of age, HSP can fund hearing services and the NDIS can fund extra reasonable and necessary supports not available via HSP such as assistive listening devices or Auslan interpreting. Children under the age of 7 who are eligible for HSP, may also qualify for NDIS early intervention supports and HSP will help connect you to the NDIS if appropriate.
If you are not eligible for HSP and are over 26 years of age, the NDIS may fund reasonable and necessary hearing supports.
To be eligible for the NDIS funding, your hearing loss must be permanent and significant, you must be aged between 7 and 65, and an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
If you’re unsure if you meet those criteria, you can look to the NDIS for guidance. They’ll connect you with a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) in your area to discuss your situation and guide you through the next steps.
Am I eligible for the Hearing Services Program?
The HSP provides support to children and young people, including those with specialist needs, those living in remote areas, and eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
The program has 2 components with different criteria for eligibility. These components are known as the voucher scheme and Community Service Obligations (CSO) obligations. The voucher scheme provides eligible participants with access to subsidised hearing services and devices, while CSO provides eligible people access to specialist hearing services.
Read about HSP eligibility criteria, what services and devices are available and how to apply or contact them for more information.
Both the NDIS and HSP work together to provide Australians with comprehensive support for hearing loss. While the NDIS covers a broader range of supports, the HSP focuses on the provision of hearing services and devices. Discuss how both programs can work together to provide comprehensive support with your LAC or NDIS planner.
How do I apply for the NDIS with hearing loss?
If you believe you meet the NDIS eligibility criteria, you can get started with the application process.
- First check your HSP eligibility to determine if you qualify for supports as that will determine what the NDIS may fund if you are eligible
- Then you will need to gather support documentation and evidence of your hearing loss (such as recent hearing test results) and how your condition affects your daily life.
- Then, submit an Access Request form through the NDIS website, at an NDIS office, or with an LAC.
- If your application is successful, you’ll have a NDIS planning meeting to discuss your needs and the potential supports that will help you achieve your goals.
Types of hearing supports you may be able to access with NDIS funding
You may be able to use NDIS funding to access a range of hearing supports designed to improve your functional capacity, allow you to participate in the community and help you achieve your personal goals. While you may not be eligible for every type of support, understanding these options will help you discuss and plan for your needs effectively.
The NDIS may fund hearing supports (when not provided by HSP) such as:
– Hearing services and devices
– Assistive technology
– Auslan interpreting
– Maintenance and repair of devices
– Therapy or training to improve communication skills
The NDIS provides funding through four different support budgets: Core Supports, Capacity Building Supports, Capital Supports and Recurring Supports. Each category is designed to help you access different types of assistance. Learn more about these supports and the items they cover in our blog: Understanding the types of NDIS funding & how they can be used.
How to maximise your NDIS plan
If your application is approved, you’ll need to plan how to use your funds effectively.
To ensure you get the most out of your NDIS plan:
- Clearly define your goals and understand what you want to achieve through funding
- Stay informed on the latest in hearing loss support and technology
- Understand your funding and the supports it covers
- Choose the right providers to help you achieve your unique goals. If you need extra support connecting with providers that are right for you, you might be eligible for funding for a support coordinator.
- Regularly review your plan. A plan manager can be a great support in effectively managing your funding and updating your plan.
Partner with MyIntegra to manage your funding and achieve your goals
If you’re eligible for NDIS funding and looking for support to help you get the most out of your NDIS plan, we’re here to help. At MyIntegra we offer tailored Plan Management and Support Coordination services aligned with your needs and aspirations.
Our Plan Management services offer support on the financial aspects of your NDIS plan, from making fast invoice payments to staying on top of your budget and spending. If you need additional support in finding and connecting with the right providers to suit your needs, specialised Support Coordinators can help with that too.
You can access MyIntegra Support Coordination and Plan Management in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and all other states in Australia.
Be empowered to maximise your NDIS plan and live the life you want today with the help of our warm and friendly team. For more information on how MyIntegra can assist you, contact us today!
