NDIS Disability Assistance Programs for Autistic Children in Melbourne, Victoria

Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common developmental disability. It affects an individual’s social interactions, behaviour and ability to interact with their environment. The disorder affects about 1% of the population (1 in every 100 people).

Miracle Hands is a service provider that offers NDIS disability assistance programs in Melbourne for children with autism. We have a specialised support system in place that is designed to look after the needs of such individuals. You will receive all the assistance you require to formulate a plan that improves the life of your child and helps them meet their personal goals.

What is Autism Spectrum disorder?

ASD is the umbrella term for several different disorders, including autism, Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). It is a disability that is considered to be on a spectrum – meaning no two individuals with ASD are alike. There is a range of severity and characteristics displayed by each person with an ASD diagnosis.

What could be the signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

People with ASD often have problems with social interaction, communication, and restricted and repetitive behaviours or interests. They may also have different ways of moving, learning or paying attention. This is why special care is a necessity for such individuals.

NDIS Eligibility for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

NDIS eligibility is based on reduced functional capacity in one or more of the following areas – communication, mobility, social interaction, learning, self-care and self-management. Not all individuals with autism spectrum disorder may get approved for NDIS funding. The latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) categorises ASD into 3 Autism levels:

  • Level 1 ASD are those who ‘require support’. This level is often undiagnosed until mental health issues become more significant. Kids in their late childhood or early adulthood are included here. Those diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome can belong to this category.

  • Level 2 ASD are the individuals who ‘require substantial support’. Children with level 2 ASD should start availing care plans and referrals to therapists, speech pathologists, and paediatricians.

  • Level 3 ASD are people who ‘require very substantial support’. Severe mental defects allow them little to no communication, hindering their functionality and behaviour in different aspects of life.

If the individual is assessed as having ASD with level 2 severity (requiring substantial support) or level 3 severity (requiring very significant support), they are very likely to qualify for NDIS funding. A child diagnosed with autism is likely to have functional capacity impairments in several areas and to meet the access criteria. However, sometimes a child diagnosed at Level 1 does not have functional deficits and may not meet the criteria.

NDIS Assistance: How Do Our Disability Assistance Programs in Melbourne Work?

NDIS helps people with diagnoses of Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome through funding and registered Autism providers. The exact amount of funding and types of support will depend on the age of the participant and the severity of their condition. Nevertheless, the NDIS application process is the same for all conditions.

  • Children with Autism 0-6 years old

    If your child is aged 0-6 years, you will meet with an NDIS early childhood partner and be part of the Early Childhood, Early Intervention (ECEI) scheme. We will discuss your child’s needs and goals. This includes any support your child already receives, how they manage current daily activities, and what additional support you think your child needs.Together we will decide on the support your child and family needs. This can include:

    • Information or emotional support
    • Referral to mainstream support services
    • Provide short or medium-term early intervention
    • In some cases, your child may be moved to an individual NDIS plan
  • Children with Autism over 6 years old

    If your child is seven or older an NDIA planner or an NDIS local area coordination partner will get in touch with you. Again, we will look at the existing support and future support your child may require to meet their goals. Everyone’s goals are different but typical goals for a child with autism may include:

    • Improving communication skills
    • Increasing skills for independent living
    • Making social connections
    • Funding and learning how to use technology

We will work with you to develop an individual NDIS plan for your child. Once approved, you can start looking for service providers to deliver the agreed support.

What Support Can I Get for Children with Autism under the NDIS?

The NDIS disability assistance programs in Melbourne can provide support across many areas for a person with autism or Asperger’s. It is focused on their goals and can include support with:

  • Education
  • Employment
  • Social Participation
  • Independence
  • Living Arrangements
  • Health And Wellbeing

Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning there are varying severity levels. A person can be mildly, moderately, or severely autistic. When providing a diagnosis of autism, clinicians are required to assign a level. There are three levels, which reflect the person’s ability to communicate, manage daily life, adapt to change and new situations, and expand beyond restricted interests.

We can provide assistance for children with autism in many areas including:

  • Speech Pathology
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physiotherapy
  • Support Coordination
  • Social work
  • Short Stay (Respite)
  • Lifestyle and Leisure

Through disability assistance programs in Victoria,Miracle Hands aims to provide Autism support to those in need. You can call us on 1800 595 184 or write to [email protected] to talk to our experts.