Federal Government monitoring NDIS for gaps amid coronavirus spread

NDIS Minister Stuart Robert says the disability scheme is being monitored to ensure no gaps emerge as a result of the coronavirus.

Acting Minister for Education and Youth Stuart Robert.

Acting Minister for Education and Youth Stuart Robert. Source: AAP

The Morrison Government says it is closely monitoring for any new service gaps in the National Disability Insurance Scheme that might open in the face of the ever-spreading coronavirus.

It says it is also providing financial assistance to NDIS providers to ensure they retain staff.

NDIS Minister Stuart Robert says if usual services cannot be delivered by a provider, the National Disability Insurance Agency will work with states and territories to source an alternative provider.

"The NDIA will be contacting targeted higher risk NDIS participants to ensure these people continue to receive the essential disability related supports they need,' Mr Robert said in a statement on Saturday.

He said the government is also offering financial assistance to help NDIS providers remain viable and to retain their staff.

Registered NDIS providers may receive a one-month advance payment to get immediate cash flow relief.

"We have been consulting with NDIS, disability and health stakeholders to understand what actions we need to take to minimise the impact that COVID-19 may have on people with disability, their families, and the network of providers and workers that support them," Mr Robert said.


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Published 21 March 2020 5:34pm


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