Eligible NDIS providers in Victoria will be able to claim a one-off payment from the NDIA to cover costs for support workers to receive their COVID-19 vaccination.
Minister for the NDIS Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said the measure was being introduced in line with the Victorian Government announcement that all authorised workers are required to have received their first vaccination, to continue working after October 15.
“We know one of the challenges for disability workers and providers is ensuring coverage of supports while workers get their vaccination, as part of their work requirement,” Minister Reynolds said.
“This payment will provide support to registered providers to cover any additional costs they incur in ensuring their disability workers are able to access a COVID-19 vaccination.”
As of 3 October, 81.2 per cent of Victorian NDIS screened disability workers had received at least one dose of the vaccine, and 65.8 per cent had received two doses.
Minister Reynolds said the figures were encouraging, however she wanted to see them grow.
The payment, of $100 per worker per dose, can be claimed directly from the NDIA and retrospectively for any vaccinations that a worker has received since 1 October.
The NDIA has also extended direct claims for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to NDIS providers in Victoria and the ACT, from 1 October 2021.
With community transmission of coronavirus evident in both states, the changes will apply to providers who use PPE to deliver essential daily life services to participants.
Registered providers in both states delivering NDIS supports within the following registration groups will be able to claim for PPE:
- Daily personal activities;
- High intensity daily personal activities;
- Assistance with daily life tasks in a group or shared living arrangement;
- Participation in community, social and civic activities.
The new measures come after last Thursday’s announcement by the NDIA of a partnership with the Pharmacy Guild Australia, enabling NDIS participants and workers to more easily book and access COVID-19 vaccinations through local pharmacies.
“We know that it is important that vaccination rates of NDIS participants and workers are at a high level as we move to a more open way of living,” Minister Reynolds said.
“There are vaccines available now through Commonwealth hubs, community pharmacies and GPs, so we encourage those who can get the vaccine to do so as soon as possible, to protect themselves and their families.”
