NDIS Update – 21/10/2024: Changes to NDIS Access
Starting Sunday, 20th October 2024, participants and nominees will no longer be able to use secret questions and answers to access NDIS portals and the app. This change is part of our efforts to enhance security and protect NDIS participant plans, funds, and personal data from fraud. Instead, users will need to utilise stronger authentication methods, such as passkeys or codes sent via SMS.
Key Changes and Actions Required:
- Authentication Update: Participants and nominees must update their myGov account settings to a stronger sign-in option (e.g., SMS code, passkey, or Digital ID) before Sunday, 20th October 2024.
- How to Check Your Current Settings: Log into your myGov account and navigate to the Settings tab to verify if you are using the secret question option.
- Post-Deadline Access: If you do not update your settings before the deadline, you will receive a message in the app or portal prompting you to change your myGov sign-in method. You will not be able to access NDIS services until this change is made.
- Help and Support:
- For assistance with updating myGov settings, participants can call the myGov help desk at 132 307 (available from 7:00am to 10:00pm on weekdays and 10:00am to 5:00pm on weekends).
- Alternatively, the NDIS National Contact Centre is available at 1800 800 110 (open from 8:00am to 8:00pm on weekdays).
Claims Submission Requirement:
In addition to the sign-in changes, a new requirement now mandates that self-managed participants submit records to support claims that exceed a specified threshold. This measure is designed to strengthen the integrity of the NDIS and ensure proper validation of claims.
- Record-Keeping: Participants have always been required to keep records, such as invoices and receipts, to support their claims. This new requirement formalizes that process and aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the scheme.
- Implementation Consultation: The NDIA has engaged in extensive consultations regarding this change, including:
- Four participant focus groups held in July 2024 to gather input on the implementation process.
- Four sessions with the Integrity Co-Design working group in August and September 2024.
- A Participant Reference Group meeting in September 2024 to finalize details.
- Feedback Monitoring: Since the introduction of the new claims submission requirement, the NDIA has monitored feedback closely. As of the latest update, fewer than ten inquiries have been received, mainly regarding how to upload evidence for claims and clarifications about requirements.
Important Notes for Participants:
- Payroll Information: When submitting claims that include payroll information, it is crucial that no tax file numbers are included to protect personal data.
- Resources for Participants: Comprehensive guidance on acceptable evidence for claims is available on the NDIS website. Participants are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these resources to ensure compliance.
NDIS Update – 08/10/2024: Information Pack
We want to keep you informed about significant updates regarding the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) following recent changes to the NDIS Act 2013.
As of Thursday, 3rd October 2024, a new definition of NDIS supports has come into effect. Participants will need to use their funding exclusively for items listed on the approved supports list, which will be available on the NDIS website. To help with this transition, there will be a 12-month grace period during which minor errors in purchasing non-eligible items will not incur penalties. However, we must note that repeated or fraudulent claims will lead to stricter consequences from the NDIA.
Additionally, the government is initiating consultations to develop Foundational Supports for individuals with disabilities beyond the NDIS. This is a great opportunity for us to provide feedback and insights. Various engagement activities, including online sessions and questionnaires, will be available for all stakeholders to share their views.
We encourage everyone to access the Information Pack for comprehensive details about these changes, including what qualifies as an NDIS support and how to apply for replacement supports. Please stay tuned for further updates from us as the NDIA rolls out more information about these changes and their implications for participants and providers.