IRG Meeting: Tuesday 21 April, 2020
NDIA COVID-19 Update
The NDIA gave an update on the measures taken in response to COVID-19. These included the temporary 10 per cent COVID price limit increases for some supports, advance payment, extension of NDIS plans, outreach to vulnerable participants, and expansion of the exceptionally complex support needs pathway. This is in addition to establishing a dedicated COVID-19 telephone line via the National Contact Centre, and creating a COVID-19 specialised action team to respond to urgent/light-touch plan reviews with 48 hours.
The NDIA is also making changes to the ‘Finding a Support Worker’ page on the NDIS website to promote links to Provider Finder and existing registered providers, and working to smooth the transition for participants and Australian Disability Enterprise providers.
Key Market Updates
The NDIA has undertaken significant industry consultation as part of the Annual Price Review and is working to release the result of the Annual Price review to give providers more notice of the changes before they take effect.
The NDIA has also extended the timeframe for submissions to the paper on the Agency’s approach to establishing digital partnerships.
COVID-19 Industry Actions
IRG Members shared trends they are seeing and the range of measures taken by their members and the disability sector in response to COVID-19. Members also provided feedback and advice on NDIA measures taken to date.
Other business
Members proposed a range of topics for future agenda items.