Under-utilisation of NDIS Packages


The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support to people with disability, their families and carers. NDIS participants are provided funding packages to purchase the supports they need. However, participants are not utilising their supports fully. The Productivity Commission noted the underutilisation of NDIS plans as a significant issue of concern.

This Victorian-based project aims to explore why NDIS participants are not fully using their allocated funds and to determine whether under-utilisation of NDIS plans is driven by socio-demographic disadvantage or other factors. The project will use administrative data and qualitative in-depth interviews to find answers to this problem. We will be speaking to NDIS participants and/or their plan nominees.

Study findings will include evidence-based policy recommendations to inform future policy on improving the effectiveness of the NDIS, and improving the lives of people with disabilities.



COVID-19 AND YOUR NDIS PLAN

Given the current circumstances, we have included a new phase to look at the impact of COVID-19 on NDIS plan utilisation.

What is the study about?

We want to hear from Victorian NDIS participants about how COVID-19 has impacted on participants and their access to services and supports. We want to help government reduce the impact of COVID-19 on how participants use their NDIS plans.

Who can participate?

If your NDIS plan use has been impacted by COVID-19, are 18 years or over, and you live in Victoria, we want to hear from you.

What is involved?

Participate in a 30 minute interview on-line or on the phone and receive a $50 visa debit card. Interpreters available if required.

More information

Ms Alexandra Devine: alexandra.devine@unimelb.edu.au or 0415 570 109
Dr Mediya Rangi: mediya.rangi@unimelb.edu.au or  0439 695 602

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Researchers

Disability and Health Unit, Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health

Professor Anne Kavanagh
Dr Ashley McAllister 
Dr George Disney
Dr Sean Byars
Ms Alexandra Devine
Dr Mediya Rangi

Project Contact

Funding

The project is in partnership with the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.