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Support services and the NDIS

Support services for people with a disability

We provide a range of services to people with disability living in Merri-bek who are eligible for support.

  • We can provide a number of household help services, including:

    • cleaning
    • shopping
    • help getting from the bathroom or getting dressed.

    We can also help you with any basic, small maintenance tasks around the house, providing they do not need a qualified tradesperson.

  • Our meal delivery service can bring you tasty, healthy 3-course meals to people in their homes. This service is for you if you are finding it difficult to shop or cook for themselves.

    You simply heat your meal at a time that’s convenient for you using the supplied heating instructions.

    Seasonal menus are developed using seasonal ingredients that are fresh and healthy.  These are prepared with the help of an Accredited Practicing Dietitian.

    Find our more on our Services for Seniors page which has more information on how to request this service and how to make a referral. 

  • Respite support is available to give you and your family or carers a break for a short amount of time. This can allow you and your carer/s to have the space to do things independently and have some different company. Respite support can be planned in advance or can be accessed in an emergency.

  • If you are under 65, or if you are Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander and under 50

    We also deliver care and support to eligible community members - as part of a program jointly funded by the State and Federal governments.

    This program provides basic support and maintenance to those living at home, and is targeted towards people aged under 65 and those aged under 50 who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. The purpose of this program is to support individuals to be more active and independent at home and in the community.

    Assessment

    Individuals will participate in a Living at home assessment, which is holistic, and person-centred assessment conducted by a health professional.
    They will work together to develop and identify what’s important to and for the clients to remain living independently at home. The assessment process will include the client and other persons if required/appropriate.
    The assessment will normally take place in the client’s home.

    Services you can access as part of this program
    • Assessment – initial assessment to confirm eligibility for the program and assistance to help you work out what you need
    • Access & Support- Short term support for those who have additional needs that are more complex and help to understand and access the support services
    • Allied Health- Referrals for Occupational Therapy,Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Dietetics, Nursing
    • Domestic Assistance – help around the home with cleaning
    • Delivered meals – prepared meals
    • Personal care – assistance in the shower
    • Property Maintenance – handy person service (not regular lawn mowing or gardening)
    • Personal alert/alarm- assessment for Government funded alarms for those eligible
    • Respite Care – providing the carer with a break
    • Meal Preparation – support to prepare meals to cook at home
    • Shopping assistance escorted/unescorted
    • Social Support – includes groups and activities to get your more connected with others in the community
    Do you want to learn more?

    For further information and to discuss eligibility contact Merri-bek City Council Assessment Services Intake Officer on 9240 2338 or intakehomecare@merri-bek.vic.gov.au.

How to access a support service

If you wish to request one of these support services, you will need to make a referral. See here for information on referrals.

The Aged and Disability Services brochure (PDF 268Kb) outlines the full range of Council services, which will help you work out which service is right for you.

We have been continuing our home care services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We have been following current restrictions closely. The health and safety of our residents is very important to us.

If you or anyone you know needs support during this time please call our Aged and Community Support team on 9240 2302 to discuss eligibility.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides Australians who have a permanent and significant disability with funding for services and support to take part in everyday activities.

The NDIS also provides information and connections to all people with disability in their communities.

You are eligible for the NDIS if you:

  • have a permanent and significant disability that impacts how you can participate in activities
  • are, or were, under the age of 65 when you first accessed the NDIS
  • are an Australian citizen, have a permanent Australia visa while living in Australia, or have a Protected Special Category Visa.
  • To speak with someone regarding the NDIS phone 1800 800 110.

  • The NDIS works with Local Area Coordinators (LAC) to help people navigate the NDIS and choose the best way to use their funding. LACs can help people select services and be an active part of the community.

    The Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL) provides LACs in Hume and Merri-bek.

    Contact Brotherhood of St Laurence

  • The NDIS is able to provide early childhood intervention for children aged 0 to 6 years. This means that your child will get the support and inclusion they need from an early age.

    To make a referral you can access a referral form on the Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL) website.

    To find out more contact the BSL NDIS Early Childhood Intervention Services:

  • What is psychosocial disability?

    Psychosocial disability is a term used to describe a disability that may arise from a mental health issue.

    Not everyone who has a mental health condition will have a psychosocial disability, but for people who do, it can be severe, longstanding and impact on their recovery. People with a disability as a result of their mental health condition may qualify for the NDIS.

    Find out more about mental health and the NDIS