Proposal 5
Helping you access appropriate support.
We know that people apply for, or receive support, from DSS that they could receive, or may be eligible for, from other government agencies. This can put pressure on DSS funding.
DSS has never been intended to fund services that are provided through other agencies. However, in reality, the boundaries between different agency services’ are often unclear. Some services are available in some regions, but not others, and may be available only to some individuals, or in some circumstances. This can be confusing and is difficult for disabled people and their carers to know the right place to receive the necessary support.
We propose ensuring that assessors identify to the disabled person and their carers the relevant supports and services that are available through other agencies or organisations and provide guidance on how these can be accessed. This will help ensure that DSS is only used for the supports and services that are not provided elsewhere.
Consultation question:
8. What information or support will help you access the services, beyond DSS, that you might be eligible for?