Students at Melton Specialist School will soon get the help they need to make the most of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding and support available to them, with the addition of an NDIS navigator for the school.
NDIS navigators will provide direct support to families and carers to help them to navigate the NDIS, including how to access the NDIS, prepare for plan reviews and access the right supports.
Education Minister Ben Carroll announced on October 12 that more than 30 schools state-wide now have the funding to hire an NDIS navigator.
“Our investment in special school infrastructure, support and the nation-leading disability inclusion reforms are giving students with disability the support they deserve,” he said.
Melton Specialist School principal Brooke Brody said the school is very excited for the creation of this position.
“Navigating the NDIS can be challenging for our amazing families. The aim of the position is to provide support and advice to families and carers to build their capacity to understand, advocate for and access appropriate NDIS funded support services available to their children,“ she said.
“Our students are most successful when the goals are set around a young person’s independence, functional skills and interpersonal skills. This ensures are students move beyond our school and live and contribute successfully in the community.
“Access to a NDIS Navigator will support our students to achieve these goals. It also supports our most vulnerable families, often at very difficult times, with important options. We can’t wait to share this valuable staff member with our school community.“
The $21.2 million fund will ensure there is an NDIS navigator in every one of the state’s 86 specialist schools by the end of 2025.
Melton MP Steve McGhie said having this extra assistance in school will make it easier for parents and carers to access resources which will help build on a student’s strengths and abilities and thrive in their education.
“Our nation-leading delivery of inclusive education across the state is about making sure all students get the chance to learn, grow and play in world-class facilities and are able to reach their full potential – no matter their needs,” he said.
