Pathways To Care

18/02/2026

We’re excited to share that our Live Chat function is now up and running! You’ll find it in the bottom right-hand corner of our website, ready whenever you need us.

We know your time is precious and calling isn’t always convenient when life is busy. That’s why we’re continuously improving how you can connect with us, offering flexible communication options that fit around you. With Live Chat, you can get answers quickly!

13/02/2026

NDIS Check-Ins are meant to support you and make sure your plan is working. Recently, how check-ins run and what outcomes they can lead to, has changed. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can reduce stress and help you feel confident and in control.

1. You can request your check-in notice by SMS or email, so you know when you’ll be contacted.
2. If you’re not ready, you can ask to reschedule which gives you more time to prepare as well organise a support person to join the call if you want.
3. Treat your check-in like a mini plan review, have provider reports, budget summaries, and any supporting documents ready.
4. Be clear on your goals, what’s working, and what’s not (and why).
5. You can request a check-in at any time, you don’t have to wait to be contacted.

11/02/2026

The NDIS can feel confusing and overwhelming, and it’s not always clear where to turn for support. Please know that your Plan Manager is always here to help. No question is too small, and no issue is too big, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

There is also support available beyond the NDIS. Whether you’re a participant, nominee, or carer, there are services and organisations that can help when things feel hard to manage.

29/01/2026

NEW podcast alert! The DSC team have launched Frontline, a podcast for NDIS workers who want to strengthen their skills and deliver truly person-centred support.

In the first episode, host Sara Gingold speaks with people with disability about what person-centred support really looks like in practice, and how services can be tailored to each individual. It’s a practical, insightful listen for anyone working in the NDIS.

Find it here ➡️ teamdsc.com.au/podcasts/frontline-episode-1

27/01/2026

With extreme heat expected for several days this week, it’s important to be prepared. Hot weather can be dangerous, especially for older people, children, people with disability, and people with health conditions.

The Australian Red Cross has helpful information on how to prepare for a heatwave, what to do during one, and where to get help. You can find their tips and links to state and territory health services here: https://bit.ly/4fmTc9o

23/01/2026

Plan Managers are governed by strict NDIA rules and oversight by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. This means they often need extra detail or confirmation from NDIS planners or my NDIS contacts before paying invoices. While this can sometimes feel frustrating, these checks exist to ensure funding is used correctly and participants are protected under the scheme.

20/01/2026

Everyone should be able to enjoy a day at the beach. Across Australia, many beaches now offer accessibility features such as beach matting, wheelchair access, accessible toilets and beach wheelchairs. A wonderful non-for-profit organisation, Accessible Beaches, has made it easier for everyone to find beaches that meet their access needs.

The Accessible Beaches website is simple to use. You can search by state or location to find nearby beaches, then click on each listing to see detailed information about what accessibility features are available. This includes parking, paths, beach matting, accessible amenities and whether beach wheelchairs are provided. The site helps you plan ahead so there are no surprises on the day.

Access to the beach isn’t a luxury, it’s something everyone deserves. Thanks to Accessible Beaches Australia, families, carers and people with disability can make informed choices and enjoy time by the ocean with confidence. If you or someone you care for loves the beach, this is a fantastic resource worth sharing.

16/01/2026

The NDIA has shared more information about new framework plans. An announcement made in December confirmed these plans will begin rolling out from mid-2026, using a phased approach.

Framework plans introduce a new planning process. This process is designed to improve consistency and place a stronger focus on a person’s disability support needs, rather than functional impairment alone.

14/01/2026

With changes introduced in October last year, to Short Term Accommodation (now called Short Term Respite), participants generally can’t use this support in a different state or territory to where they live. There are limited exceptions, for example, participants who live close to a state border.

This clarification from the NDIA is part of a broader effort to establish clearer rules for Short Term Respite. The focus is on reinforcing that this support is intended as respite, not accommodation for holidays.

We understand this can feel confusing and stressful. It’s important to be very careful when arranging Short Term Respite. This support must be appropriate for you and should be discussed with your planner or my NDIS contact, or specifically referenced in your plan as a support you can use your funding for.

Short Term Respite can be a high-cost support. Before engaging with this support, it’s strongly recommended that you confirm that using your funding this way aligns with the intent of your plan. Where Short Term Respite has been used without this confirmation, we have unfortunately seen large invoices declined by the NDIA.

08/01/2026

Today, we say thank you and farewell to James, aka Jimmy/Jim.

Jimmy started with Pathways to Care back in 2015, when Ros and Jane were running training programs designed to support people with disabilities gain employment. Over the past ten years, Jim has held many roles, including administrative support, plan management, leadership in our intake and customer service teams, and marketing and business development. Throughout, Jim has shown his passion for empowering participants through his extensive NDIS knowledge, while demonstrating compassion and care.

We couldn’t be more excited about Jim’s next step into education. He has an innate ability to talk to anyone, bringing joy and positive energy wherever he goes. The team will miss him dearly; however, we know his future students are so lucky to have him.

Thanks, Jim!

30/12/2025

THANK YOU, JANE!

Last week, we celebrated our one and only Jane, who finishes up at Pathways tomorrow. Jane, our former Director, alongside Ros, has dedicated the past 11 years to ensuring the business delivers the highest level of support to people with disability.

From the early days of developing high-quality training materials, to providing Support Coordination for people on the NDIS, right through to ensuring Pathways operates at the highest level of NDIS compliance across all areas of the business. Jane’s work ethic, attention to detail, calm leadership and unwavering commitment to quality support are key reasons Pathways to Care is what it is today.

At her farewell dinner, Jane shared that she is most proud of the team, the shared knowledge, and the way we have supported our NDIS participants over the past eight years. While we are incredibly sad to see Jane go, we are equally excited for what lies ahead for her. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you and good luck, whoever your next employer is, they will be incredibly lucky to have you.

17/12/2025

Breaking news from the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission!

Mandatory registration for supported independent living (SIL) and platform providers will start on 1 July 2026.

This change will strengthen oversight and ensure providers are accountable for meeting quality and safety standards. Registered providers must pass audits, suitability assessments, and comply with strict worker screening and incident reporting requirements.

This announcement follows extensive consultation and aligns with recommendations from the NDIS Review, Disability Royal Commission, NDIS Provider and Worker Registration Taskforce, and the NDIS Commission’s Own Motion Inquiries.

We will share guidance on transition arrangements in early 2026, giving providers time to prepare while maintaining continuity of support.

See the link to the media release in the comments.