The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an innovative system that gives Australians with a disability more control over their lives and support. However, navigating the NDIS system can be overwhelming for many. It is important for an NDIS provider in Brisbane, disability advocate or someone who is communicating with potential NDIS participants to be able to explain the system in a way that is clear, accessible and responsive to different needs.

Understand your audience

Before explaining NDIS, think about the following information about your audience.

• Prior knowledge: do they understand the basics of supporting participants or is it completely new to them?
• Learning style: do they prefer visual aids or brief or detailed explanations?
• Communication needs: do you need to take language barriers or cognitive differences into account?

Key concepts to convey to the trainees

Regardless of the background of the participants, try to cover the following key points:

What is NDIS and what is NDIS? 

Explain that it is a government program designed to provide individualised funding and support to impaired people.

• Eligibility: explain who can access NDIS (permanent impairment, impact on daily living, age under 65).
• Individualised planning emphasises that the NDIS, which offers disability services in Brisbane, is focused on participants' specific needs and supports goal setting.
• Choice and management: emphasises that participants can choose the supports and service providers that are most appropriate for them.
• Strategies for effective communication
• Plain language: avoid jargon and technical terms. Use everyday language and short sentences.
• Analogies: compare NDIS with familiar concepts, such as individualised budgets to support impaired people.
• Visibility: flowcharts, diagrams or simple lists of steps can help visualise the process.
• Empathy: according to the NDIS provider near Brisbane, recognise the complexity of accessing the system and provide ongoing support.
• Questions: ask questions throughout the conversation and at the end to clarify any unclear points.

Explaining NDIS is not just about providing information. It is about promoting the empowerment of participants and unlocking their potential. Since there are people with different levels of understanding among the participants, patience, empathy and clear communication are needed. By starting with the basics, using visual aids, providing real-life examples, and being sensitive to individual needs, all participants will gain a clear understanding of NDIS and how it can help them achieve their goals and aspirations. Your patience, clarity and sensitivity will make a significant difference to their journey!