Under the NDIS, it is expected more local people will be eligible to receive disability support services and much more government spending will go towards these supports.

Council’s disability support coordination services are currently funded through the NSW Department of Family and Community Services. 

But once the NDIS rolls out people living with a disability will receive individual funding packages that reflect their personal goals, rather than the government directly funding disability support organisations.

Council has provided disability services since 1992 and is ready to continue to provide support beyond July 1.

“Our service is unique because we specialise in only one type of activity: providing support coordination to people under 65 who have a disability,” manager of children, families and ageing Kristina Brenner said.

“We have a small team of three case managers, but our staff are experts with decades of experience and local knowledge.

“Our case managers help people identify their goals, get support from both mainstream and disability specific organisations, and provide assistance to ensure support networks are working well.”

The NDIS rollout in the Bega Valley Shire will follow a staged process, with most people transitioning to the scheme from 2017 and beyond. However, some high-needs groups will transition in mid to late 2016.

Council currently has limited spaces to deliver support coordination to individuals under 65 who need round-the-clock support due to their disability.

This group is expected to make the transition to NDIS in late 2016.

These individuals and their families can call the Disability Team on 6499 2464 to find out more about how to access support coordination prior to the NDIS rollout.