TIP

Applying for NDIS, also known as submitting an access request, can seem overwhelming. When there is so much talk in the media about changes and how access will become harder, many families may be put off from trying.

If you think your child may be eligible, please reach out to have a conversation with me about how to commence the process. For eligibility requirements, the NDIA prefers assessments to be recent – this means the most opportune time to commence the process is if your child has recently been diagnosed with an intellectual developmental disorder (intellectual disability) or they have had a review cognitive assessment in the past 12 months.

UPDATE

There are changes to the NDIS coming. Change can be anxiety-provoking and at times distressing. When you are trying to understand the changes and what they may mean for your child or young person, seek out clear summaries from reputable organisations such as Advocating for Children with Disability.

NDIS changes - ACD

There is a lot of discussion currently regarding functional capacity. Functional capacity is not a new concept – as many families of our students preparing to graduate will know, it is a key part of demonstrating your young person’s needs as they transition out of school and into new pathways. What is new is a move away from diagnosis determining eligibility for NDIS access. See below for more information about what this means in practice.

NDIS eligibility will be based on ‘functional capacity’, not diagnostic labels. But what does that mean? - Source Kids

INFORMATION

The NDIS is offering a series of webinars during May on ‘Understanding the NDIS’.

The sessions are for NDIS participants, carers, families, and professionals.

For more details regarding topics and dates the flyer is here.

The sessions offered include –

NDIS funding periods
NDIS Employment Supports
NDIS Working with providers

Has your child expressed interest in playing basketball?

One in five Australians identify as a person with disability, yet people with disability are less likely to participate in organised sport compared to those without disability.

The below organisations are passionate about creating inclusive spaces where every child has the chance to participate.

Ability Hoops

For autistic children with or without intellectual disability

Thursdays 4pm – 5pm, 7 May 2026 – 18 June 2026

Diamond Valley Sports & Fitness Centre

Click below for more information

All Abilities Program

Ages 5-17, for children and young people with disabilities, autism, psychosocial challenges, or additional support needs

Mondays 5pm - 5:45pm

Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium

Click below for more information

All Abilities Program

Eltham Wildcats

Eltham High School/ Eltham Leisure Centre

Email inclusion@elthamwildcats.net.au for specific inclusive programs

Hoop Now

Trinity Grammar School, Kew (2 sessions Sundays) La Trobe University, Bundoora (2 sessions Sundays)

https://www.hoopnow.com.au/community-programs

Daisy Grinter

NDIS Navigator

Dates to Remember

Term 2