NDIS EXTERNAL PROVIDER INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES

We are doing what we can to support families with the NDIS process. As a school, we provide the following:

• A letter for families to include in their NDIS application to support the process;
• With parental consent:
  • observation of the student in the classroom by an external Allied Professional engaged by the student’s family (external provider);
  • Communication between school staff and external providers, where appropriate and applicable.

DET guidelines indicate that the student requires staff supervision for an external provider to meet with a student on a school site (for Duty of Care). As a result, the following is not possible at Rosamond School in or outside of school hours:

• 1:1 student sessions, such as therapy, counselling, etc… with an external provider;
• Provide a space for an external provider to meet with a student 1:1.

I’m excited to introduce myself as your new NDIS Navigator. This role is part of a Victorian Government initiative designed to provide you, the parents and carers, with the guidance and support you need to navigate the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and access the services that best support your child’s needs.

I have over five years of experience working within the NDIS in senior roles, including positions in the Complex Support Needs Pathway and Partner Relationship Teams. This has given me a thorough understanding of the NDIS framework, including the intricacies of creating NDIS plans, conducting NDIS reviews, assessing therapists’ reports, navigating legislation and operational guidelines, and working with NDIS partner organisations such as the Brotherhood of St Laurence.

In the Navigator role, I aim to work closely with you to build strong relationships and provide personalised support with all things NDIS. Whether it’s helping you understand your child’s NDIS plan, navigating the review space, or staying up to date with legislative changes, I’m here to make this process easier for you.

Here are some examples of how I can support you:

• Funds Management: I’ll help you understand how to manage your child’s NDIS funding, ensuring it’s used as effectively as possible.
• Legislative Updates: I’ll inform you about the latest NDIS policy changes and explain how these impact your family and child’s support.
• Plan Reviews: I’ll assist you in preparing for NDIS plan reviews and ensure that the evidence you provide meets NDIS criteria.
• Letters of Support: I’ll help write support letters and assist you in justifying claims, such as repairing or replacing NDIS-funded equipment like iPads.

My mission is to equip you with the knowledge and resources to advocate confidently for your child’s needs, help you make the most of the NDIS, and create the best environment for your children to thrive. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help!

Warm regards,

Catherine O’Farrell
NDIS Navigator Rosamond School