The NDIS Housing Package has been developed to help people with disability to gain access to appropriate housing. It is a new way of thinking about the housing and support needs of people with disability.
The NDIS Housing Package builds on existing state and territory housing schemes. It is based on the principle that people should have choices and control over their housing options at all stages of their lives.
If you’re a person with a disability (PWD) who has recently been approved for the NDIS and received your first housing package, we want to share some tips on how to manage your NDIS Housing Package.
- Set A Budget
You need to set a budget that covers all your expenses. If you’re going to rent, you’ll need to find out how much rent is being charged in the area you want to live in. You might also want to consider whether there are any special services or facilities that will help you manage your NDIS plan.
- Understand Your Rental Responsibilities
You will have to pay rent, but there are some options available if you can’t afford it. You might also have other responsibilities as a tenant that go beyond just paying rent, such as taking care of the property and reporting repairs and maintenance issues promptly. Check with your provider about what is expected of you before signing a lease agreement or moving in.
- Get To Know The Area
Researching what’s nearby will help you find out whether there are any community facilities or services that could support your plan outcomes and goals, such as rehabilitation programs or specialised medical centres (see section 8). If there are any organisations that help people with disabilities in your area, they may be able to offer advice on finding suitable accommodation too.
- Find The Right Support Services For You
The NDIS housing guide is designed to help you find, choose and manage your NDIS housing plan. It contains information on how to access different types of support services around the home, such as cleaning and maintenance services, gardening services or other household help. You can also get advice on planning your budget and managing your money.
- Research Your Options
There are many different types of housing options available, including public housing and private rentals. You can search online or check with your local council office for available properties within walking distance from where you work or study. You may also want to consider other types of accommodation such as retirement villages, bed & breakfast hotels, shared houses (student accommodation) etc. Make sure you check the cost before signing anything!
- Pick A House That Suits You And Is Not Just For Show
When choosing a house, think about things like size, location, condition of the building, parking facilities and security features such as locks on windows and doors. You might also want to consider the neighbourhood or the type of house, e.g, whether it’s attached or detached and whether it has gardens or yards that allow you to grow plants or keep animals like birds or rabbits.
- Organise Your Housemates
The NDIS Housing Guide has tips on how to organise your housemates, so everyone is clear about who pays for what and when bills are due. It also helps you come up with a plan for paying off any debts between you so that everyone knows their financial commitments upfront before they commit to sharing accommodation with others.
- Take Note Of Your Rights As A Tenant
You have the right to live in a safe and habitable home. This means that the house must be structurally sound, have adequate heating and cooling, not be infested with pests and be free from structural defects. If your landlord fails to meet these basic standards, they may be liable for damages under the Tenancy Agreement. You also have rights regarding repairs and maintenance, including getting repairs done in a reasonable amount of time or being compensated if your landlord doesn’t do them at all. You can find out more about these rights on the Tenants Union website.
- Use Community Resources And Facilities
Your NDIS plan should include information about where you can go for support and assistance, including medical or mental health services, financial counselling and advocacy services. You can also contact a disability organisation in your area for more information about local services.
Conclusion:
The following guide provides you with some useful tips on how you can successfully manage your NDIS housing package. Moving into your new home with independence and privacy is easier when you plan out all the details in advance.
