Funding

If people are not in a position to self-fund, they may be eligible for external funding. A variety of funding sources exist across various Victorian State and Commonwealth Government programs.  Other funds are available through philanthropic or non-profit organisations. Individuals who are compensable may receive funding to meet their aids and equipment needs through organisations such as Workcover, Traffic Accident Commission, private insurance or Department of Veterans Affairs.

Navigating the multiple funding sources can be complex. The information collected here is aimed to assist individuals looking for funding for an aid or other piece of equipment they need.  The focus of the information is not for agencies looking for project or program funding, although this information may be found via Philanthropy Australia.

The information here is divided into Government and Non-Government funding options.  The Government funding includes Victorian State and Commonwealth programs, while the Non-Government section includes Non-profit organisations and the Philanthropic sector.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT AIDS AND EQUIPMENT THAT BEST SUITS ME

Working in partnership with a professional, trials of different pieces of equipment are conducted to assess which piece of equipment is most appropriate to your needs. Throughout this process quotes of the pricing is collected and an assessment of the equipment and its suitability is conducted.

Some equipment is 'off the shelf' and does not need modifications. You can use this equipment immediately.

Any equipment that is customised will need 2 - 3 fittings with the health professional present. Sometimes more fittings may be required.

Your therapist can show you how to safely use the equipment and provide training on its use.

WHAT TYPES OF PROFESSIONALS ARE AVAILABLE TO ME?

Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapists (OT’s) enable or encourage participation in daily domestic and personal care activities in spite of impairments or limitations in physical functions.

Physiotherapists

Physiotherapists treat physical disabilities using massage, exercise and therapies other than drugs.

Speech Pathologists

Treatment of speech defects and disorders, especially through use of exercises and audio-visual aids that develop new speech habits.

Orthopists

Orthoptists often work with Ophthalmologists (medical and surgical care of eyes), and can assess visual function, prescribe therapy and assess for low vision aids.

Optometrists

An optometrist is trained to detect eye conditions and disease, and can prescribe and fit spectacles, glasses and contact lenses and they can assess you for low vision aids.

Orientation and Mobility Instructors

Instructors trained to assist with safe and independent movement for people who have low vision or blindness. They also provide advice and training on mobility aids.

Continence Nurses (Clinical Nurse Consultants)

Provide assessment, advice and information, will liaise with your General Practitioner and provide information about aids such as continence pads and catheters.

Assessment Officers

Services such as your local Community Health Centre, Council and ACAS can provide a range of information on services that may be helpful to you, and can also provide the assessment for Personal Alarms Victoria.

WHERE DO I START?

For families of children between the ages of birth to school age contact:

The Early Childhood Intervention Service (ECIS) Central Intake
Phone: 1800 783 783

For people aged under 65 years contact:

Department of Human Services Intake and Response Team
Phone: 1800 783 783
TTY: 1800 008 149

People aged over 65 years should contact:

The Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS)
Aged Care Information line
Phone: 1800 500 853

Carers of any age can contact:

Commonwealth Carer Respite and Carelink Centres
Phone: 1800 052 222

Your local Community Health Centre or local Council (Local Government) may also have information to assist

Community Health Centres
Local Government