Man’s NDIS nightmare
Application for pension refused
WATCHING his friend Kallah Masya wade through an “exhausting” and “impossible” system has almost been enough to deter Greg Hutchinson from trying to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Having suffered a brain injury himself, Mr Hutchinson applied for a plan under the NDIS while supporting Ms Masya through her ordeal.
But despite receiving a Centrelink disability support pension, Mr Hutchinson’s application for the NDIS was refused.
He said he could not understand why his application had been rejected.
“I have been knocked back but I would not understand what Section 25 and Section 23 are about,” he said.
A letter addressed to Mr Hutchinson referred to Section 25 and Section 23 of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act.
Mr Hutchinson said he was hoping to access a carer or support worker to help with house upkeep and financial management. “But now I have been having second thoughts about going through the NDIS,” he said.
A National Disability Insurance Agency spokesman said access to the NDIS was based on a person’s functional impairment, not on their condition or diagnosis.
“Any person who is eligible for the NDIS will continue to receive the reasonable and necessary supports they need,” he said.
“If a participant thinks a decision made by the NDIA about them is wrong, they are encouraged to contact their local office and discuss their concern.”
His friend Ms Masya is adamant he needs the help.
“They say he doesn’t the criteria,” she said.
“But Greg does qualify, he is not keeping up with things in fulfil his home and he needs a carer.”
Two local area coordinators are stationed at the Warwick Department of Human Services office to help people access and implement the NDIS.
Inquiries about the National Disability Insurance Scheme, phone 1800 800 110.