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## Introduction Hey there, NDIS community! It's Sandi here, your friendly neighborhood disability advocate. Today, we're diving into the exciting world of NDIS updates for 2024. Brace yourselves for a wild ride filled with new approved disabilities, updated support lists, and a sprinkle of Sandi's signature wit. Don't worry; we'll break it down together and make sure you're equipped with all the knowledge you need to navigate these changes like a pro. So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let's explore what the NDIS has in store for us! ## What's New in the NDIS for 2024? ### Updated Support Lists Picture this: it's October 1, 2024, and the Minister for the NDIS waltzes in with a shiny new set of support lists. These lists are like a treasure map, guiding us to the types of supports the NDIS will fund. While they're not set in stone just yet, they give us a pretty good idea of what to expect. The goal? To ensure that NDIS funding is used effectively and directly related to participants' disability needs. It's like making sure your socks match your outfit—everything should be in sync! ### Temporary Guidelines and Feedback Now, don't panic if you see some changes that make you raise an eyebrow. These lists are currently serving as temporary guidelines until the Australian, state, and territory governments reach a final agreement. It's like a trial run for a new hairstyle—you've got time to adjust and perfect it. During this transition period, stakeholders (that's you!) have the opportunity to provide feedback and help shape the final guidelines. So, if you've got some brilliant ideas or concerns, make sure to speak up! You can learn more about the [new NDIS support lists and what you need to know](https://inclusion.ymca.org.au/new-ndis-support-lists-what-you-need-to-know/) and [what we know so far about the new NDIS support lists](https://pwd.org.au/new-ndis-support-lists-have-started-this-is-what-we-know-so-far/). ### What's In and What's Out? The new lists are all about being specific and evidence-based. They focus on supports and services that are directly linked to managing a disability. It's like choosing the right ingredients for a recipe—everything should have a purpose. However, some services that aren't evidence-based or directly related to a disability might be excluded from funding. This could include things like childcare fees, crystal therapy (as much as we love a good energy cleanse), and day-to-day living costs like rent and groceries. You can find out more about [what you need to know about the recent NDIS changes](https://pwd.org.au/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-recent-ndis-changes/) and [the NDIS changes to Section 10 list explained](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-01/ndis-changes-section-10-list-explained/104313864). ## NDIS-Approved Disabilities: A Closer Look Now, let's talk about the disabilities that the NDIS covers. They're categorized based on how they impact an individual's ability to function in daily life. It's like sorting your laundry—everything has its place! ### Physical Disabilities Physical disabilities are like speed bumps in life—they can affect your ability to move and perform tasks. Some examples include: • Cerebral Palsy: It's like your brain and muscles are playing a game of telephone, and sometimes the messages get a bit mixed up. • Spinal Cord Injuries: When your spinal cord decides to take a break, it can impact your mobility and feeling. • Muscular Dystrophy: It's like your muscles are slowly going on strike, leading to weakness and loss of muscle mass. ### Intellectual Disabilities Intellectual disabilities are like having a different operating system for your brain. They can affect intellectual functioning and everyday skills. Some examples are: • Down Syndrome: It's like having an extra dose of chromosome 21, which can lead to developmental and intellectual delays. • [Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)](https://sandi.app/posts/understanding-ndis-support-for-individuals-with-autism-deb99494): It's a unique way of processing the world that can affect communication and behavior. ### Sensory Disabilities Sensory disabilities are like having a glitch in your sensory input. They can affect sight, hearing, or other senses. Examples include: • Blindness or Vision Impairment: It's like living in a world without Instagram filters. • Deafness or Hearing Impairment: When your ears decide to take a vacation, it can impact communication and social interaction. ### Psychosocial Disabilities Psychosocial disabilities are like having a rollercoaster in your mind. They stem from mental health conditions that can significantly impact daily functioning. Some examples are: • Schizophrenia: It's like having a mind that plays tricks on you, with delusions and hallucinations. • Bipolar Disorder: It's like having emotional highs and lows that rival any theme park ride. You can learn more about [NDIS and mental health supports in 2023](https://sandi.app/posts/understanding-ndis-and-mental-health-supports-in-2023-3d009d51). ## Criteria for NDIS Approval So, how do you know if you qualify for NDIS support? It's like a secret handshake—you need to meet specific criteria: 1. **[Permanent and Significant Disability](https://sandi.app/posts/ndis-permanent-impairment-explained)**: Your disability needs to be a long-term companion that significantly impacts your daily life. 2. **Age Requirement**: You must be under 65 when you first apply for the NDIS. It's like a VIP club with an age limit. 3. **Residency**: You need to be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa. It's like having a golden ticket to the NDIS chocolate factory. ## What Do These Changes Mean for You? ### Increased Clarity The new lists are like a map to help you navigate the NDIS world. They provide clearer guidelines on what supports can be funded, so you can make informed decisions about your plans. You can [navigate your NDIS plan and learn how often you can change it](https://sandi.app/posts/navigating-your-ndis-plan-how-often-can-you-change-it-180607cd). ### Potential Exclusions Some participants might find that certain supports they previously relied on are no longer covered. It's like finding out your favorite snack has been discontinued. But don't worry; there are always alternatives! ### Feedback and Adjustments The temporary nature of the lists means there's room for feedback and adjustments. It's like a dress rehearsal—we can fine-tune things before the big show. ## Conclusion Phew! We've covered a lot of ground today, from the new support lists to the criteria for NDIS approval. Remember, the NDIS is here to support you and help you live your best life. These changes aim to make the scheme more effective and transparent, even if there might be some growing pains along the way. Stay informed, stay engaged, and don't hesitate to reach out for support. And hey, if you ever need a friendly ear or some extra guidance, remember that [Sandi](https://sandi.app/posts/sandi-ai-ndis-guide) is just a tap away! **Download the Sandi app today and join our vibrant community of NDIS participants, families, and carers. Together, we've got this!**

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Understanding the 2024 NDIS Updates: Approved Disabilities and Support Changes

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Understanding the 2024 NDIS Updates: Approved Disabilities and Support Changes