Speak Out August 2020 DIGITAL EDITION

in practice

Purchasing equipment for telepractice from NDIS plans

maintain existing services. There is a cap on tablets such as iPads of up to $600. This is a time limited policy which will be in place until September 2020. NDIS funding cannot be used for: • any item that does not relate to the participant’s disability or that doesn’t help to maintain NDIS funded supports and services, • devices with specifications beyond the minimum needed, • smart phones, smart watches or tablets with mobile connections (e.g. 3G or 4G), • multiple devices, • replacements for loss or damage, • utility costs (internet connection), • software including apps, • additional hardware or accessories (unless specifically related to their disability and access to the supports being provided via physical distancing), • purchase of items when rental options may be appropriate. How to purchase Self managed participants: If there is a specific item that participants and providers agree will help to maintain supports during the physical distancing period, the provider will need to provide written

From 27 April 2020, to help participants continue to receive their NDIS funded supports and services during this period, the NDIA temporarily broadened the flexible approach to purchasing low cost AT items. This allows participants to access low cost AT items, such as smart devices, in consultation with their existing support providers. Please see the NDIS FAQ for further information. Participants can now use their existing NDIS funding to purchase an item if: • it will maintain funded NDIS supports like a program, therapy or requirement, • the provider of supports has confirmed in writing (an email is ok) the device is necessary to continue supports and services while maintaining physical distancing requirements, • it is the lowest specification that will maintain funded supports, • they do not already have the item, another suitable item or access to the item, • the item has not been funded by another service system (such as education), and • the item or circumstances are not specifically excluded. Participants are able to spend up to $1500 on low cost AT items from their existing budgets. Participants should not spend more than $750 on electronic devices (such as laptops) needed to

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August 2020 | Speak Out