CHILDREN and young people with disabilities in and around Lithgow will benefit from the early roll-out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
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It’s expected more than 2000 children and young people with disabilities aged up to 17 and their families in the Lithgow, the Blue Mountains and Penrith areas will benefit.
“It’s anticipated the roll-out will begin from July 1, a year earlier than was planned, with participants beginning to have their plans developed by September,” Federal Member for Calare John Cobb said.
“I’m delighted that the State and Federal Governments have come together to bring the NDIS to Lithgow and other areas of Western Sydney.
“The NDIS gives choice and control to people with a disability, empowering them to choose the supports they need to achieve their goals.”
Mr Cobb said the early start to the roll-out of the NDIS would help address the considerable unmet need for people with disability and the high proportion of vulnerable young people in the community.
“We are committed to a better deal for people with a disability.
“The Federal Government will commit $14.7 million in 2015-16 for the NDIS in Western Sydney, and the State Government will commit $8.7 million.
“This is a most welcome investment to help support people with a disability and I’m pleased that an area of Calare has been included in the original roll-out.”
A new NDIA office will be established in the Penrith area to service NDIS participants in Lithgow.
“Western Sydney, including Lithgow, is an area of high need when it comes to early intervention services for children with a disability, so that’s why it’s important the NDIS roll-out starts as soon as possible,” Mr Cobb said.
“All other people eligible for the scheme will start to access it from July 1, 2016.”