National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

The Helping Children with Autism Program (HCWAP) is a Commonwealth Government initiative commenced in July 2008 to help better identify and support childen with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Children up to the age of 13 years can be referred by a paediatrician or psychiatrist for up to four assessment services by a psychologist to assist with diagnosis or to contribute to their treatment and management plan. We have extensive experience in comprehensively assessing children and adolescents using best practice protocols and well regarded psychometric tools. Our psychologists are also very skilled in providing support and intervention to children with ASD.

Children under the age of 6 years who are diagnosed as having ASD are eligible to access early intervention funding through the Department of Social Services (DSS). This funding of up to $12,000 (maximum $6000 per financial year) assists families to access therapy by allied health professionals (e.g. psychologists, speech pathologists and occupational therapists) registered with DSS as service providers. We are recognised HCWAP early intervention providers.

Children who have a diagnosis of ASD with a treatment and management plan developed before the age of 13 years are eligible for a Medicare rebate for a total of 20 treatment services from allied health professionals including psychology. There may be an out-of-pocket expense for these services which must be used before the child turns 15 years of age.

Further information can be found at the DSS website.