Lion and Mouse

27/10/2025

We have just published a new blog: Understanding the I-CAN Assessment Tool: Progress or Pitfall?

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is gearing up for one of its biggest changes yet: the introduction of the I-CAN assessment tool – short for Instrument for Classification and Assessment of Support Needs. From mid-2026, this tool will become the standard way to assess support needs for participants aged 16 and over.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is gearing up for one of its biggest changes yet: the introduction of the I-CAN assessment tool. What is the I-CAN Tool?

22/10/2025

We had a fantastic time connecting with the community at the DEC Expo in Werribee! It was great to share our mission, meet passionate people, and talk about how we’re breaking down barriers for people with disability. Thanks to everyone who stopped by - your support means the world to us!

01/10/2025

Snoop Dog popped by our local school...

30/09/2025

Not all disabilities are visible. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual delays, ADHD, and other cognitive or neurological conditions often go unnoticed by the outside world. But just because you can’t see them doesn’t mean they aren’t real, and it certainly doesn’t mean the people living with them aren’t incredibly strong.

Not all disabilities are visible. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual delays, ADHD, and other cognitive or neurological conditions often go unnoticed by the outside world.

29/09/2025

This is just amazing

23/09/2025

We are down at the Werribee Italian Sports Club with the DEC. We have our spinning wheel ready ro go.

19/09/2025

You're invited...

https://events.humanitix.com/werribee-community-disability-expo/tickets

21/08/2025

On August 20, 2025, the Federal Government announced sweeping changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), introducing a new program called Thriving Kids. This initiative will divert children with mild to moderate autism or developmental delays away from the NDIS by mid-2027, raising serious concerns for families and advocacy organisations like Lion and Mouse Australia.

What Is “Thriving Kids”?

Thriving Kids is a $2 billion foundational support program, co-funded by states and territories, designed to provide early and accessible help through mainstream services such as GPs, schools, childcare, and community organisations. It is part of a broader effort to return the NDIS to its original purpose: supporting people with significant and permanent disabilities.
However, Lion and Mouse Australia believes this shift raises more questions than answers.

Our full article is at this link:

On August 20, 2025, the Federal Government announced sweeping changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), introducing a new program called Thriving Kids. This initiative will divert children with mild to moderate autism or developmental delays away from the NDIS by mid-2027, raising....

16/08/2025

Autism CRC are working to develop a National Guidance for best practice in inclusive education for autistic students.

29/07/2025

Our latest blog post is now up, covering key issues facing new plans (and the impact on participants). Just follow the link to find out more. https://lionandmouse.com.au/2025/07/29/whats-changing-in-the-ndis-an-update-for-july-2025/

30/06/2025

📣 NDIS Changes from 1 July 2025 – What You Need to Know

From 1 July 2025, the NDIS has introduced several important updates to pricing and plan arrangements. Here’s a quick summary to help you stay informed and prepared:
✅ Core Supports Funding Increased
Funding for core supports (like support workers and personal care) has gone up by 4.36% to keep pace with rising wages and inflation. No action is needed — plans will be automatically adjusted in mid-July.
🧠 Therapy Pricing Adjustments
- Psychology: Now capped at $232.99/hr nationwide (a $10 increase in most states).
- Physiotherapy: Reduced to $183.99/hr.
- Dietetics & Podiatry: Now $188.99/hr.
- Travel for therapists is now billed at 50% of their hourly rate, capped at 30 mins (metro) or 60 mins (regional).
👶 Early Childhood Supports Extended
The early childhood approach now includes children up to 9 years old (previously 7), giving families more time to access tailored supports.
🧾 Plan Management Updates
- The setup fee has been removed.
- Remote loadings no longer apply.
- Monthly fee remains unchanged.
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Support Worker Rates
Hourly rates for Disability Support Workers have increased by 3.95%, reflecting Fair Work wage decisions and superannuation changes.
🎨 Art & Music Therapy
Individual sessions are now capped at $68/hr, unless providers can demonstrate functional outcomes. Group rates remain unchanged.
💡 New “Funding Periods”
Funding may now be released in smaller instalments (e.g. every 3 months) rather than all at once. You can request a variation if this doesn’t suit your needs.

📌 What to Do
- Check in with your support coordinator or plan manager to ensure your service agreements reflect the new pricing.
- Review your goals and supports to make sure they still align with your needs.
- If you’re unsure, reach out — support is available.

Let’s keep working together to make the NDIS fair, flexible, and focused on what matters most: people.