How does the NDIS affect transport for students with disability?
All new applicants for transport assistance must have an approved and active NDIS plan.
Jurisdictions and the NDIA are still working to determine how specialist school transport is provided under the NDIS. While this work is occurring, states and territories will continue to provide specialist school transport. In the ACT, this is the Special Needs Transport program. This means Special Needs Transport will continue to be provided in the same way it has been in the previous years. However, it may mean a change in the way student eligibility for Special Needs Transport is assessed in future years and eligibility will be dependent on a reasonable and necessary decision. Parents and schools will be provided with further updates as available.
Does my child need to be part of the NDIS to access the Special Needs Transport program?
Yes, students applying for Special Needs Transport must have an approved and active NDIS plan. Exemptions may apply for students who are not eligible for the NDIS because they do not meet Australian residency. These applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Students must also meet the Directorate’s criteria for access to transport to be included in Special Needs Transport.
Can I still apply for transport if I haven’t yet lodged my child’s NDIS application?
We know the process for determining NDIS eligibility can take a little time. You can apply once you have received an NDIS number however the application for Special Needs Transport will not be processed until the NDIS plan has been approved and activated. Once this is done, we will process the application quickly and get back to you as soon as possible.
My child’s NDIS package includes funding for transport assistance. Do I use this money to pay for the Special Needs Transport service?
No, you do not need to do anything. The amount of funding in your child’s package for student transport is only there to reflect the cost of the assistance currently provided by Transport Canberra. There is no exchange of cash between you, Transport Canberra or the NDIS. This is what is called an ‘in-kind’ service.
How do I become an NDIS participant?
For information on how to become an NDIS participant please refer to the NDIS website or phone 1800 800 110.
More information
For more information on special needs transport contact the coordination centre on 6205 3555.
