Disclosure Log

Document 26 - For Official Use Only

National Disability Insurance Agency

Item: PRG | Date: April 15th, 2020

DISCLOSURE LOG

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY Pricing Reference Group | Item 3.2 | Date: April 15th , Year : 2020

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Item 3.2 - Pricing Reference Group | Date (15 April 2020)

Exhibit 30: Efficient Costs in SIL and Non-SIL Settings

ADL Efficient	SIL Efficient
$60 $60

$55.76 $55.47

$50 $50

$40 $40

$30 $30

$20 $20

$10 $10

$- -$

ADL Efficiency: SIL Efficiency:

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group | Date: April 15th , Year : 2020 | Item Number: item-3-dot-2

Further,

The review also recognizes that providers must continue supporting an existing resident participant during any period when their plans undergo reviews and there’s thus risk they might provide different support ratios than those approved.

The review acknowledges vacancies present issues but not necessarily deficiencies within unit price limits; instead it points out planning arrangement inadequacies which don’t always adjust participant plans based on vacancy changes;

####### If these were uniformly distributed across sectors then adjusting prices would have been possible yet available data shows otherwise so addressing such risks should be through plan reviews rather pricing adjustments directly. ######## Review suggests strong arguments exist where this risk could be jointly managed between provider & NDIA, implying if NDIA doesn’t complete its planned review timely enough, a provider is entitled to compensation covering services delivered until completion occurs. ############ Therefore,the review recommends reviewing Operational Guidelines for SIL: a) clearer advice regarding high intensity supports/sleepover/active overnight inclusion in SIL plans; b) change of circumstance reviews whenever vacances significantly impact costs associated with delivering supports at SIL settings ;and c) agreed timeframes ensuring certainty about revenue from completed or addressed billing matters once the plan isn’t finalized.

Next steps

Draft report will go before CEO for presentation towards 5th May ,2021 meeting. 2.Price Regulation Unit tasked working alongside other Agency areas implementing recommendations including advising participants/providers/partners/staff. 3.If accepted/recommended actions are implemented starting July firstst year 2021 and published four weeks prior implementation. 4.Developing communications strategy supporting publication of reports detailing price arrangements for SIL.

Risks

Scheme sustainability concerns might lead sector view current Pricing Arrangements as cost-cutting exercise; these can be mitigated via ongoing communication efforts since it’s part larger program improving shared living support methods.

Disclosure Log

For Official Use Only

Pricing Reference Group | Item 3.2

| — | | Date: April 15th , year 2020| 7. The broader improvements in SIL aim at enhancing participant choice & control; simplifying NDIA processes ; addressing pressures on Scheme sustainability . These enhancements shall be implemented through multiple steps involving consultation sessions with participants, service providers along other stakeholders during consideration.

Attachment(s):

a) Review of Pricing Arrangements for Supported Independent Living -Draft Report b) Review of Pricing Arrangements for Supported Independent Living-Issues Paper

Disclosure Log

Document: NDIS - Review of Supported Independent Living Price Controls | MR25/01967 FOI 24/25-2242

NATIONAL DISABILITY INSURANCE SCHEME

REVIEW OF SUPPORTED INDEPENDENT LIVING PRICE CONTROLS

Issues Paper: August 2020 Delivered By The: National Disability Insurance Agency

Disclosure Log

Copyright

Copyright in the information contained in this document is owned and protected by the National Disability Insurance Scheme Launch Transition Agency (National Disability Insurance Agency).

Issues Paper

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has released this Issues Paper seeking inputs to inform the cost parameters required to estimate the fully loaded cost of delivering an hour of personal care in a shared living arrangement. The issues paper invites submissions from providers of SIL services and impacted stakeholders on a range of issues which will be considered in developing price limits for SIL services. Individuals and organisations should not feel restricted to comment solely based upon matters raised within these papers.

Key date

Due Date: Sunday, October 25th @ midnight AWST, Submissions may also be submitted via email: Pricing@ndis.gov.au

Contact details administrative other matters:

Contact Centre: Monday - Friday | Hours: AM – PM Phone Number: +6137/800–110 Email Address: enquiries@ndis.gov.au Website Link: Have your say Further Information can found at NDIS website:Ndis Website.

Disclosure Log

Introduction … page number not provided in source text.
- Definitions ….. [page_number]
- Responding_to_the_Review ……[page_number]
Issues_for_Participants ………….7
Issues_for_Providers ………………8
- Wages_and_on_costs ……….8
- Workforce_mix……………9
- Utilisation………………..10
- Supervision_cost…………..10
- Overheads……………………11
- Supply_costs_specific_to_SIL_services…….11
- Other_costs………………..13
Appendix_A:_Schematic_overview–NDIS_Disability_Support_Worker_Cost_Model……….14
Appendix_B:_Current_arrangements……………………………..15

Introduction

One of the principal objectives of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is for people with disability to exercise choice and control over how, and with which providers, they spend their available budgets. The role of pricing in the NDIS is therefore very important. Prices, or more precisely participants’ choices in response to the prices they face in themarket, reflect the preferences and relative values that different participants place ondifferent types of supports. The aggregation of these individual responses in turn signals toproviders the quantity and mix of supports to supply. Prices also affect the purchasing powerof participants. Higher prices reduce the supports participants can purchase within agivensupport budget. Prices also affect the total costs of the NDIS and therefore its financialsustainability, and the allocation of resources to the NDIS (and therefore possibleproduction), relative to other sectors. Pricing can also affect providers’choices,includingby providing incentives:–for enteringthe market;forsupskillingandrigh-skilling;﬎;for innovation;ﻯorimprovementsinservicequalityandooutcomes. asmarketstewardforthedisabledisabilitygoodsandservicemarketsdevelopandeffectivelyoperate, devicesmoreeffectively,theNationalDisabilityInsuranceAgency(NDIA)🎖🙇 willbeabletobelessinterventional.However,deregulation will necessarily occur at differents points intime for diferentmarketsmaynot befeasiblein somecases.CurrentlythetNDAIavariesitsapproachtotheregulationpricesbetween:•No regulation(dereguated markets):this appliesincaseswheremarketsare highlycompetitive—for exampletransport.•The imposition price limits these represent maximum allowablepricepayable byparticipantsfortypessupports.This approachapplies in significant numberofmarkstransportwhich are still developing growing such as those attendant care •Quotablesupportsin which participants expected obtain quotations fromsuppliers provide NDIApartverifying prices fair reasonableThis typically apply case of high specialised differentiated supports that may not havehigh level competition—example assistivetchnology.The NDIS Disability Support Worker (DSW) Cost Model is one methodology the National Disabiliy Insurance Agency uses to inform its pricing decisionsforthose deliveredby DisabilitySupport Workers on it imposes price limitscopyModelatlinktoschematoAppendixA.On 1 July2020, replaced previous quotationpricingarrangements Supported Independent Living with based ‘assistance self-care’ supportschanges made supported independent living were designed increase transparency equity how SIL funded simplify administratively complex processes. NDIA committed improvingtransparency fairnessprocesses decisionmaking and conducting review price controlsSupportedIndependentLivingoutcomes come effect later yearReview tasked suggestingimprovementsstructurethe

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

identifying whether there are different costs that arise in the delivery of attendant care supports in a shared living arrangement that do not arise in other settings; and quantifying any differences that may be required in the key parameters of the NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model for attendant care supports in sharing living arrangements, given the different cost structures of delivering supports in shared living arrangements compared to other settings. The NDIA is seeking input from the sector and interested parties to this Review to inform the cost parameters required to estimate the fully loaded cost of delivering an hour of SIL Supports In A Shared Living Arrangement This review Of Prices For Sil Supports Is Not About Reducing Funding For Reasonable And Necessary SIl SuppOrts Neither Is It about The Volume OF SuPPorts That Participants Receive .The Purpose O F ThiS ReViEw i划 Simply To Seek Your Feedback On Whether ThE Current Price Limits Per Hour oF SiL SuPPOrt DeliVeRed Are Appropriate.This review also Only IS A Small ComponentOfA Much LargerOngoing ProgramTo Make Improvements TO THE WAY PARTICIPANTS RECEIVING SUPPORTS IN SHARED LIVING ARRANGEMENTS ARE supported. THe Wider improvementsTO SILO Will SEEKto IMPROVE Participant Choice AND Control, Simplify ndia Processes ,And Address PressuresTOScheme Sustainability.Improvements will BE made Through a SeriesOF Changes,andWill Undertake ASeriesof Consultations With participants PROVIDERSandTHEWIDER Sector As These changes are considered.

Definitions

ThE PrIce Guide Defines siL as follows:

“These support items provide assistance with, or supervision on tasks_of_daily_life in_a shared living environment_with_focus_on_developing_the_skills_0f_each_individual_to_live_as autonomouslyas_possible.The_support_is_provided to each_person_living_in the_shared arrangement_accordingwiththeirneed.Support Independent Living does_not_include rent_board_and lodging_or other_day-to-day usualliving expenses_such_as_food and activities.Italso_does not include_thecapital_costs_associated_witHa participant’s accommodation.“SiL is similar To attendant care In many ways,the main differences being that SiL Is intended for_participants who_require 24/7care And livein_shared living arrangementsWith_other NDIS Participants.(ThereisasmallamountOf SIl provided_outside of_group houses,_As A legacy Of previous state schemes.)Before July _2O2o,aSIL quote would covera_whole year,whereas_attendant_care i划_charged bythe_hour_when_it_was_delivered._The ndIS Price_Guide can be found at: linktoNDISPric eGuide

RespondingTo The Review

THe nDIs Disability Support Worker Cost Model estimates ThE efficient cost OF delivering a billable hour_OF_Support taking_into_account_allofthecoSts_associaTed with_every_billablehour, including_base pay; shift loadings; leave_pay salary_on costs supervisioncosts;

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

utilisation (non-billable activities); employee allowances; corporate overheads and margin. These estimates are the basis of the price limits set by the NDIA for supports delivered by Disability Support Workers. In adapting the NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model to set price limits for SIL services, there are a number of aspects of the Cost Model that may need to be adapted or refined. The following sections outline the key areas and invite feedback from providers on a range of targeted questions. Some of these areas relate to differential supply costs for delivering non-SIL compared to SIL services, while other areas relate to cost drivers that are unique to providing SIL services. Providers are also welcome to provide feedback on any other issues that they consider relevant to this review. Providers are encouraged to refer to or send in data and/or evidence to support statements that are made in responding to each/any of the questions. This includes any applicable cost models for relevant SIL services. Information marked as commercial-in-confidence will not be published. Submissions can be lodged by email to: Pricing@ndis.gov.au . Submissions must be lodged by Sunday, 25 October 2020, 11:59pm AWST.

Confidential submissions

Submissions to the Agency that are marked as commercial-in-confidence will not be published.The NDIA has engaged Deloitte Access Economics to assist the Agency in undertaking this review. If preferred, respondents may give confidential information, including commercial-inconfidence data/information, directly to the team from Deloitte Access Economics at SILpricingreview@deloitte.com.au. This information will not be provided to the NDIA unless the submitter gives their consent, and any reference to this information by Deloitte in their reports to the Agency will maintain the anonymity of the source.

Issues for Participants

Under the quotable support arrangements for Supported Independent Living that were in place before July 1st, 2020, participants did not always have high degrees of control over their group house’s offered services.

The agency aims at empowering these participants more involvement selecting reasonable necessary supports who assist them daily activities home simplifying process providers changes pricing arrangement made July 1th 2020 supported independent living designed increase transparency equity funding SIL supports simplify administratively complex processes implementation price limits operational changes guidance also released participant involvement understanding their SIL supports aim consultations understand move from quotable supports prices may impact on experience engaging service providers receiving within a supported independent living environment potential impact prices might improve choice control views will considered review reflected reports developed during this process:

What do you consider as advantages disadvantages regarding new approach? Are there particular factors Agency should aware defined costed charged to participants?

Issues for Providers

Wages and on-costs

The NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model recognises that wages and on-costs are the largest cost driver for providing disability support services.

The NDIA therefore seeks detailed evidence regarding material differences between base hourly wages paid: to - Workers with SIL status vs those without, on-costs associated:with both groups.

Base Hourly Wage

Base hourly wage refers to minimum pay rate received per hour excluding shift/leave loading/superannuation allowances. Salary On-Costs include superannuation/workers compensation premiums/payroll tax/employee allowance costs.

Is there a Material Difference?

Is there any significant variation in base (minimum) hour rates among staff performing SIL tasks versus other roles? Does such disparity reflect varying training needs/nature of work or another factor? If so how substantial does it appear?

Salary On-Cost Differences

can workers delivering SIL services incur different salary-related expenses compared others not involved directly within this service type? The reasons behind these variations, along with their magnitude should be identified if present.

Overtime Costs

do you notice notable distinctions when comparing overtime expenditure levels across employees engaged specifically as part of SIL delivery against non-SIL counterparts? What specific aspects differentiate each role necessitating differing expenditures here? How large is that difference exactly? ####### Leave Cost Variations are leave cost allocations distinct for individuals working on behalf of the SIL program relative to colleagues who do similar but unrelated duties elsewhere at your organization? Identify what factors lead up and justify why one group might face higher/lower expense ratios than those outside its scope. What’s the extent of said differences then?

Enterprise Bargaining Agreements (EBAs)

is your company currently utilizing an EBA covering some/all employee groups: to compare terms applicable exclusively towards personnel executing core functions under SIL framework vs all else? does any discrepancy exist in conditions offered between both sets of parties covered by respective agreements, as well as explanations thereof plus quantification regarding size/impact?

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Workforce mix

The NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model recognises that the costs of employing casual and permanent workers are different. The NDIA is therefore seeking detailed evidence on whether there are material differences in these arrangements between SIL (Supported Independent Living) workers and non-SIL workers.

Casual staff

Is there a significant difference `

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Level of Staff

Q: What level of worker do you use for standard vs higher requirements, and when do you decide if a participant requires higher-intensity support?

Utilisation

The NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model recognises that staff need to spend some working time undertaking non-billable work, including breaks and training. Therefore, we seek information about any significant variations regarding this arrangement among SIL (Supported Independent Living) service providers.

Training Requirements

Question: Do training needs – along with associated costs - differ between SIL Services versus Non-SIL Services? If so,

What factors drive such discrepancies;
Which aspects require more or less intensive training;
And how substantial might those disparities be in terms of cost?

Question: Are initial training demands differentiating similarly across new workers within both types services compared above? If yes:

Identify key drivers behind these differences;
Highlight which areas necessitate greater investment on part of employers;
Quantify magnitude involved here too!

Other Non-Billable Activities

Is there notable variation observed amongst the indirect care tasks performed by personnel under either category? Examples include shift handovers & individualized note-taking duties etcetera… In case distinctions exist,

Explain underlying reasons driving said variances;
Estimate scale at play as well please~! ~!!

Supervision Costs

NDIS acknowledges necessity for direct supervision alongside management support provided by supervisors themselves. Key parameters influencing Cost Model calculations pertain to supervisor wages/conditions AND their respective ratio towards overall staff numbers employed therein… Hence, we seek insights into any significant variations pertaining specifically toward this aspect.

Supervisor Wages and On-Costs

Does disparity indeed prevail concerning supervisory compensation levels between SIL vs non-SIL service providers alike ? Should answer affirmatively reveal further details regarding:

What factors contribute most significantly to such discrepancies ;
To what extent do they vary financially speaking; $10$ Page 192 outof total pages: 1049

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Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Supervision ratio

Question: Is there a difference in the number of workers per supervisor for SIL services compared to non-SIL services? If there is a difference, what aspects of service delivery mean that more or fewer supervisors are required How large is the difference?

Overheads

The NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model providers incur overheads (costs not directly attributable worker salaries). The NDIA seeks evidence if these differ between SIL & non-SIL.

Corporate overheads

Question: Is corporate overhead different when delivering SIL vs Non-SIL Services ? If so, what drives it how much larger/smaller?

Turnover rates

Do staff turnover vary among those who deliver SIL and non-SIL, why/how big/why smaller/larger differences exist? What costs arise from this turn-over? Do they also change based on type of service delivered? Why do they differ and/or how significant? Supply Costs Specific To SIL: NDIA recognizes specific supply cost considerations for providing SIL services; seeking detailed info about them and their drivers. Vacancy Management: 25) What’s your average vacancy rate across properties 26) Does property vacance depend complexity participants rurality rooms? How does optimizing participant numbers affect costs? Approach used optimize vacancies across all properties?

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Vacancy Costs

Question: How do vacancies impact the costs of delivering SIL services? Please quantify these costs for your organisation.

**Answer: Some costs associated with vacancies can be considered fixed – e.g., an inactive sleepover in three-bedroom house has same cost whether there are two residents (e.g.) What proposition(s) regarding vacancy costs being either ‘fixed’ vs variable exist within your organization?

Disclosure Log

Other Costs

Question: Is there an additional cost involved with non-SIL and/or SIL services that isn’t included within our current model? Please supply further information.
Question: Any extra expenses due to COVDID-19, Please give more detail.

Appendix A: Schematic Overview - NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model

Parameter	How Is This Reflected in The Cost Model?
Base pay & Shift loadings & Leave allowance On-costs Supervision costs Permanent workforce Utilisation Overheads Margins Indexation	Four DSW levels (23/57, 2-4/3·1), based on SCHADS classification Applies a loading for permanent staff working weekends public holidays afternoons and nights applies casual loading for weekdays weekend public holiday afternoon night Includes annual leave personal leave public holiday long service leave Superannuation workers compensation employee allowance Supervisor to DSW ratio of 1 to 15 Assumes 7%of work force Incorporating breaks training other Varies across staff level Assume % direct cost Assum 2% Fair Work Commission Equal Remuneration CPI

Parameter

How Is This Reflected in The Cost Model?

Base pay & Shift loadings & Leave allowance On-costs Supervision costs Permanent workforce Utilisation Overheads Margins Indexation

Four DSW levels (23/57, 2-4/3·1), based on SCHADS classification Applies a loading for permanent staff working weekends public holidays afternoons and nights applies casual loading for weekdays weekend public holiday afternoon night Includes annual leave personal leave public holiday long service leave Superannuation workers compensation employee allowance Supervisor to DSW ratio of 1 to 15 Assumes 7%of work force Incorporating breaks training other Varies across staff level Assume % direct cost Assum 2% Fair Work Commission Equal Remuneration CPI

Appendix B: Current arrangements

The Supported Independent Living support items in the NDIS Support Catalogue provide participants with assistance with, or supervision of tasks daily life shared living environment focus developing skills each individual live autonomously possible The support provided person living arrangement accordance need. These supports can be delivered participant subject rules set out NDIS Price Guide . as well direct service provision these support items used claim Non-Face-to-Face Support Provision Provider Travel and Short Notice Cancellations Providers also claim non-labour costs Provider Travel Different price limits as follows Table apply depending Time Day Week delivery whether High Intensity Supports.

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MR25/01967 FOI 24/25-2242

Review of Supported Independent Living Price Controls

This document was released under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 by the National Disability Insurance Agency. Page: 1

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Document 27

NDIS Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th, 2020 - Minutes

Date: Thursday, Apr-15/4/2023 Time: 10:30–:12:50 Location: Microsoft Teams Meeting (Video Conference)

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FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 15th, 2023 | Minutes

Temporary Transformation Payment

The paper PRG Item 3.*1: Temporary Transformation Payment, was submitted for review. • Scott (s47F-personal) as Director, Pricing Policy & Economics • Dr David Cullen (Chief Economist) The PRG discussed this item thoroughly before agreeing with its proposals; refer also to attachment A within minutes.`

Annual Price Review

Paper PRG Item 3.*8: Annual Pricing Report is presented by: • Dr David Cullen (Chief Economist). After discussion and deliberation in detail, it is agreed that all recommendations are accepted without amendment; see Attachment B included here.`

Reforming Supported Independent Living

The paper on Reform Item 4.*6: Supported Independent Living has been reviewed under PRG guidance; it’s authored by Matthew (s47F-person). No further action or amendments were required after the meeting. No additional attachments needed at present.`

Employment Support Enhancements

Paper PRG Item 4.*9: Supports In Employment, which includes contributions from Jo(s47F-persona), Ken(s47F-perso), alongwith Dr David Cullen (Chief Economist). The PRG approved these suggestions unanimously. Attachment C should be referenced for more details regarding any changes made during discussions.

Psychosocial Recovery Coaches Program Enhancement

This document discusses the proposal submitted as part of PRG Item 20200416 - Item Number: 4.*5: Psycososcial Recovery Coach*, with inputs provided by Gerry(s47F-personal priv)and Scott(s47F-personal p). The PRG concurred and adopted its proposals, no modifications necessary thereafter, as detailed in Attachment D included here within minutes.

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Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th, 2020 Minutes

Attachment A — Temporary Transformation Payment

The PRG noted:

Preliminary findings and agreed on a step-down in level.
- From 7.5% down to 6.0%, effective as previously agreed starting January 1st,
  - On account of COVID-19’s impact affecting both providers & participants; deadline extended until June 30rd;
  - All relevant supports’ eligibility continued through this date before being reviewed again later (July).

Recommendation to Board via CEO:

From July onwards for active providers from ’18-’20: * Eligibility criteria changed based upon publication compliance with NDIS Price Guide (NDIS), * Business contact details listing in Provider Finder must be kept up-to-date; * Participation is mandatory within TTP Benchmarking Survey. * If not participating after survey closing dates will cease access higher price limits. For those who were inactive but became so post-survey closure: - Must indicate intention beforehand making claims rather than the previous cut-off point. Those becoming eligible afterward should follow similar rules except ceasing participation at next benchmarking survey cutoffs instead.

Disclosure Log

Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 15th, 2023 | Minutes

Attachment B — Annual Pricing Review

The PRG noted the report on pricing review.

The PRG agreed upon recommending these recommendations set out within this report:

Recommendation #1) Annual Pricing Review

The NDIA is advised not undertake its usual annual pricing reviews for fiscal year '20-'21 but instead monitor economic conditions closely as COVID progresses and economy recovers; promptly respond if any issues arise;

to commence conducting an annual pricing review in July to December each subsequent year (starting January next), reporting results between February/March following years directly towards Board via CEO’s office, corrections taking place effective immediately after June first every year thereafter.

Recommendation#) Annual Indexation of Price Limits

NDIA should index price limits annually from July onwards ensuring their real value remains intact through below arrangements:i.)	pricing caps for Disability Support Workers' services are determined based NDIS Cost Model post Fair Work Commission’s wage update;i.)	caps related with Capital Supports like Transport/Consumables etc., indexed according to ABS Consumer Prices over past twelve months leading up to March Quarter preceding indexing date &ii.);	taxonomy-specific support prices adjusted by weighted average of previous 12-months’ movement across Australia’s Wage Price Index excluding bonuses, alongside corresponding Consumer Price Indices at the same time period using a weighting ratio of eighty percent on wages versus twenty per cent on consumer goods costs.i.)	iis)	All previously set price limits under this model must be reset whenever the Fair Work Commission makes significant changes impacting key parameters within said cost models, corrections being applied retroactively starting upon effectuation day of such determination.

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RECOMMENDATION 3)

Programs of Supports: The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is advised that they amend their NDIS Price Guide starting July 1st, 2020.

Providers are allowed contracts for programs subjecting them with safeguards: i.) Programs cannot exceed a duration longer than twelve weeks unless specifically permitted within said guide; ii.) Participants can exit an agreed program without cost under conditions where notice periods do not surpass four(weeks).

Recommendation 4):

NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model: The NDIA continues to use this model on July first, to determine base price limits for disability support workers’ services delivered non-TTP basis; ii.) Adjustments include decreasing permanent-to-casual staff ratios at seventy/thirty percent and increasing long service leave entitlement shares fully to one hundred%; iii.) Workers compensation premium percentages decrease from unspecified levels down to just over one point seven percentage points; iv.) Overhead costs increase by twelfth-point-zero per centage; v.) Supervision ratio increases up to fifteen-one. vii.) Allowance provisions rise proportionally in relation salary increments. viii.) Also adjust shift loadings for casual Saturday/Sunday workers according Fair Work Commission’s Decision [FWCFB] dated year two thousand nineteen, decision number:7096

RECOMMENDATION 5)

Temporary Transformation Payment: The level of the Temporary Transformation payment should be reduced from seven-and-a-half-per-cent (7.5%), effective as previously announced starting July1st*,2020* to six-and-a-quarter-per-cent (6%) . RECOMMENDATION 6) Definition Level High Intensity Supports: Amend definitions within NDIS Price Guide regarding Levels One through Three supports.

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Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 15th, 2023 | Minutes

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Level I support items should be used if the person delivering them has skills equivalent in pay grade level two below maximum SCHADS Award.

Level II support items require someone with similar qualifications but can also include those who would earn Level III within their pay range for SCHADS employees under this award system as well;

For Level III supports it’s necessary when working individuals possess abilities surpassing what would classify them above Social & Community Services Employee levels three minimum wage point according to SCHADS Award rules.

Disclosure Log

Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th, 2020 Minutes

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY midnight of that Saturday unless it is a Support Public Holiday or a Nighttime Sleepover.

A Sunday Support refers to an individual’s participation starting at after midnight prior Sunday ending before Midnight of that Sunday (unless it’s a Public Holiday or nighttime sleepover).
An Standard Day Support, any other type and either: o Weekday Support starts from am until pm on single weekday except public holiday or night-time sleepovers.o Afternoon/Evening Support finishes between PM and AM on same day excluding holidays or sleepers overnighto Active Overnight Support commences before midnight ends after midnight weekdays or begins early morning then completes within weeknight if not for holidays, weekends support.Sunday, or sleepover supports. If no criteria met needs two separate billing.Night-Time Sleepover Supports have price limits inclusive cost hours provided participant duration period Providers may claim third additional hour rates weekend days applicable rate otherwise.Holidays apply weekly all pending described previously.RECOMMENDATION)8 Group Based Supports That NDIA should amend pricing arrangements group based supports providers use various worker ratios instead claiming appropriate ratio items by apportion time spent with the group among members.

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Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 15, 2020 | Minutes

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Recommendation (9): Capacity Building Supports

The National Disability Insurance Agency’s price limit on therapy support services will remain unchanged until further notice.
Indexation adjustments are needed regarding capacity building supports provided through disability workers’ cost models as per their respective worker cost model guidelines;

Plan Management Recommendations:

Amend conditions attached to specific items such as ‘Capacity Building & Training In-Plan Financial Management By A Plan Manager’, etc., within the NDIS Support Catalogues allowing claims related to provider travel expenses under these categories;

Geographic Classification Recommendation:

The MMM classification system and its updates released from Health Department should be adopted as a basis determining pricing arrangement criteria including remote loadings for plan funding amounts or applicable time limits associated directly delivered participant supports in the NDIS Price Guide;

Cancellation Fees Recommendation:

Pricing rules must allow providers full claim coverage upon short notice cancellations without any deductions;

Provider Travel Recommendation (❌):

Amend both the NDIS Price Guide AND the NDIS Support Catalogue starting July first of this year so that non-labor costs linked with provider transportation can now also be claimed according activity-based transport arrangements.

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Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th, 2020 | Minutes

Recommendation:

The National Disability Insurance Agency shall trial commissioning travel broker arrangement for Northern Territory, Queensland & Western Australia.

Recommendation on Establishement Fees:

That NDIA should amend current Establishment Fee Arrangements within NDIS Price Guide so that,

An establishment fee to assist with non-ongoing costs related arrangements assisting participants implementing their plans can be claimed from a participant’s plan provided provider is one or more registration groups such as High Intensity Daily Personal Activities etc., has an agreement supplying at least twenty hours support per month across all categories including Assistance With Social And Community Participation; assists implementation;
- Each Provider may claim this once in any given Plan.
- Multiple Providers are allowed if each meets criteria above and claims separately against same plan.
- Amount must not exceed ten times hourly weekday price limit determined under Standard NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model ($528.50).

A maintenance establishment fee supporting ongoing cost maintaining arrangements helping implement the plan after review by providers who meet similar conditions described earlier.

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Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th, 2020 | Minutes

has made an agreement with participant for at least 20 hours support per month across categories:
- Assistance With Daily Living (”Support Catgories„) or ”Social & Communtiy Participatino.”
assists participants implement their NDIS Plan;
previously claimed establishment fee on behalf; not claiming it now or within current financial year;
does NOT have a maintenance established fee already paid in this plan/year, i.) Each provider can only claim one such fee per plan cycle; ii) Multiple providers may each apply once to cover same plan/period if criteria met above; viii) Maintenance Establishment Fee amount should be negotiated between parties but cannot exceed five times standard disability worker cost ($♅.75). xv) NDIA recommends adding price-limited items into catalogues allowing specific registration groups (High Intensity Activities etc.), enabling them access fees and maintainance fees.

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Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th Minutes:

The PRG ALSO AGREED TO RECOMMEND TO THE BOARD THROUGH THE CEO THAT FROM JULY 07TH 2020:
- The FOLLOWING SUPPORT ITEM BE ADDED TO THE NDIS Support Catalogue IN SUPPORT CATEGORY 2 ASSISTANCE WITH SOCIAL & COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION TO SUPPORT PARTICIPANTS ACHIEVE OUTCOMES IN Outcome Domain (Work): |Support Item Number|Support Item Name|Support Item Description| |-|:-|–| |02_811_01335 _I | supports in Employment - Establishment Fee | Administrative establishment fee, paid when a participant starts with Supports In employment provider.|

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MR25/01967 FOI 24/25-2242

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Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th Minutes

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PRG - Meeting: April 16th, Minutes

Pricing Reference Group

Attachment C Recommendations on the Pricing Arrangements for Supports in Employment

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY The PRG AGREED to recommend to the Board of NDIS through CEO that from July 07/2020: The following support items be added to the NDIS Support Catalogue in Category 3 Assistance with Social & Community Participation to support participants achieve outcomes Outcome Domain Work |Support Item Number| Support Item Name | Description | |-|-| |02_804_053_S_1| Weekday Daytime | Assessments related work impact person’s disability; job customisation On-the-job training and support daily tasks Direct supervision group-based support enable meaningful participation at workplace Physical assistance personal care delivered Workplace supports manage disability-related behaviour complex needs at work Non face-to-face activities directly supporting participant employment.

Disclosure Log

Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th - Minutes

Attachment D – Psychosocial Recovery Coaches

The PRG AGREED to recommend to the Board through CEO that:

From July 07 onwards, a new support item will be added in Support Category Support Coordination. The aim being to help participants achieve outcomes within Outcome Domain ※ (Social and Community Participation) as per below table: | Item Number | Name | Description | |-|-|-| | 07_101 | Weekday Daytime Coaching | Assistance building capacity & resilience; strong relationships; support people with psychosocial disability live a full life.|`

Assistance for participants build capacity, etc.| | 07_102| Afternoon/Evening Coaching (Weekdays) | Maintain engagement during increased needs due episodic mental illness.; work collaboratively w/participants/families/carers/services identify plan design coordinate NDIS supports.|

Collaborative assistance needed…| | 07_104| Sunday Coaching | This support requires lived experience. Must have tertiary qualifications or equivalent training/experience related to peer work or mental health services.|

Similar requirements apply here too..| | 07_106` | Night-Time Support | Same as other items listed above. Note: The recommendation should be subject price regulation and national limits determined by the Standard Disability Worker Cost Model except specified below:

Paypoint 80% utilisation rate,
Supervisor pay point & supervisor utilisation rates at standard parameters; The recommendation is also subject remote loadings; time/day definitions in Price Guide for Direct Service Provision, non-Face-to-face service provision etc., Capacity Building Support items are not eligible Temporary Transformation Payment even though their cost models determine by Disability Support Worker Cost Model.

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th Minutes

Support Item Number | Support Item Name | Support Item Description

07_501 _O10E E3 Activity Based Transport A provider can transport one more participants and/or from community based support part psychosocial recovery coaching support.

the following support item be added NDIS Catalogue in Category Coordination to support participants achieve outcomes Outcome Domain Social Community Participation:

The recommendation should subject price regulation;

and The recommendation activity based set out Price Guide.

Disclosure Log

Document 28

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.

Matter For Decision: Psychosocial Recovery Coaches Prepared By David Cullen Chief Economist

Purpose:

The purpose stated in section Purpose aims at seeking agreement within PRG regarding several new support items related to psychosocial recovery coaching from July 07th onwards with specific details provided below.

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.4

Date: April 16th , Year : 2025-23242

(d) the price limits in Recommendation should be subject to standard remote and very remote loadings; e The support items set out time day week defined NDIS Price Guide;f Support items recommended Direct Service Provision non-Face-to Face Service Provider Travel Cancellations NDIA Report Writing subject rules claims set out NDIS Price Guide;(g) The Support Items as Capacity Building Support Items should NOT eligible Temporary Transformation Payment though their cost models determined Disability Worker Cost Model ;and(h) The Support Items in recommendation 2(a), Should not Eligible for Temporary COVID Loading. That PRG ALSO AGREE recommend Board National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) through CEO that from July 1st, year: a Following item added catalogue category Outcome Domain Social community participation): b support item regulation;b Should activity based transport set out NDIS Price Guide. Background Mental Health Australia with strong support Community Mental Health Sector State Territory governments argued Scheme design did account recovery oriented practice improvements it can achieve.Key messages review Australian international literature are:(a) People severe persistent mental illness will experience multiple episodes of lifetime having good partial recovery between episodes(b) Less than one-third people living psychosis have continuous chronic form ill(c) Recovery rates vary between where refers individuals after many years no longer symptoms do not take psychotropic medications limited only several functional domains.Evidence highlights variability impairments higher prospects improvement abilities other disability groups critical Psychosocial Coaches

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.4 | Date: April 16th, 2020 |

Importance:

The importance lies within participant agency engagement with getting better through active participation in reducing years under Scheme funding.

Section 3.4:

Definition: Psycoshological recovery coaching is a specific form used to support individuals dealing with psychosocial disabilities or mental illnesses via innovative application principles that enhance motivation & control over their lives while managing complex behaviors related directly towards these conditions; it builds capacity resilience through strong respectful relationships; it facilitates self-management enhancing informed choice enabling social economic participations among others involved such as families other service providers who collaborate closely together identifying planning designing coordinating supports accordingly understanding episodic nature illness collaborating relevant services plan maintain engagements periods increased needs.

Evidence:

There exists good evidence efficacy recovery coaches (Reference [Hayes et al., Australasian Psychiatry, vol(26), no.(578-585)]).

Decision Making:

at its meeting October Council Australian Governments’ COAG Disability Reform Council DRC agreed introducing new item called psycoshological coach July development specifications including supporting shared care clinical mainstream interface systems national Psychosocial Disability Recovery Framework.

At Board NDIA September proposed improvements for psychosocial disability implementation included developing psychosocial recovery coach supports widely accepted role sector providers building business plans into approach already. The Agency has developed draft set of role descriptors following consultations sectors States Territories through DRC Senior Officers Working Group competencies based Domains capabilities outlined in the National framework recovery-oriented health services Reference [Australian Health Ministers’ Advisory Council, 2013].

Disclosure Log

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.4 (MR25/01967 FOI 24/25-2242)

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

It is proposed in this document:

Lived Experience Recovery Coaches: Should have a lived experience with mental illness or recovery along with appropriate tertiary qualifications such as at least Certificate IV Mental Health Peer Work plus two years’ relevant work.
Psychosocial Recovery Coach Work Requirements:* Requires both personal experiences related to living through these issues AND formal training and education equivalent, specifically either Certificates III-VII in peer work or mental health fields OR similar professional development programs; also requires minimum twp-year employment history within areas directly impacting on people’s well-being due to their condition(s).

The psychosocial support services are suggested for delivery under Registration Group #106 which focuses primarily around helping individuals manage life stages, transitions & supports needed throughout different phases including coordination amongst various types of assistance provided like accommodation arrangements, tenancy obligations management etc., daily planning tasks, budgeting advice among others; it includes workers from several categories such as Disability Support Workers (including those specializing into Mental Health), Welfare professionals, developmental educators, social service providers alongside Aboriginal healthcare specialists who can offer tailored care based upon individual needs identified during assessments conducted by planners/local area coordinators skilled across multiple domains encompassed between medical conditions affecting cognition/behavior patterns up until financial literacy skills required when navigating complex systems involving public benefits schemes designed specially catering towards persons suffering severe persistent psychiatric disorders.

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.4 (Date: April 16th)

Price controls:

a) It’s recommended new Psychosocial Recovery Coach items should be subject to pricing regulation. b) There’s broad agreement in consultations these roles don’t need Allied Health Professionals but require tertiary qualifications like Certificate IVs related peer work/mental health OR equivalent training plus at least two years experience working on mental-related tasks; competency levels are higher than those allowed under current NDIS Disability Worker Cost Model where highest level workers assumed as having competencies akin to SCHADS Award level 3.2 pay point staff classified accordingly; c) Workers supporting participants with mental conditions often needed debriefing after shifts due their own well-being which lowered utilisation rates significantly compared others—psychosocial participants being more likely streamed Intensive/Super-Intense twice as much (59% vs other participant group, who have a lower likelihood rate); most psychosocial disability cases involve schizophrenia according data from providers showing average recovery coach utilization was around ~~70%, while cost model assumes an efficient practice of about~~80%. Atleast one provider out three presented internal financial data achieving this efficiency target, d) The price limits for the proposed new Psychosocial Recovery Coach support item prices must follow Standard Disability Support Worker Cost Model parameters except specified below:

Support worker paypoint: 4.4
Supervisor paypoints: 61%
Utilization Rate: 80%

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.4 | Date: April 15th, Year: [Year]

providers considered that recovery coaches should not have to be required to be allied health professionals.

Supervision Ratios:

Providers also argued lower supervision ratios were necessary – one supervisor per eight workers compared with eleven under Standard Cost Model; NDIA disagrees due lack strong evidence supporting this ratio given low utilisation rates already proposed.* Some argue overhead allowance insufficient especially if vehicles are maintained but no compelling evidence provided showing different costs between psychosocial services vs others.“It is recommended six price limits established based on time/day definitions within NDIS Price Guide”*

Non-Direct Supports:

Psychosocial recovery coaches must travel to meet participants & provide non-face-to-face supports as part effectiveness recommendation for service items including Direct Service Provision and Provider Travel Cancellations/NDIA Report Writing.“The Temporary Transformation Payment (TTP) was introduced balancing efficiency drive against supply expansion needs in core disability support markets where increased market supplies require higher short-term prices to maintain existing volumes of disability supports from other sectors.” TTP applied only when rapid growth expected or need outweighs supply concerns like capacity building or Supported Independent Living programs without such demand increases.”

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.4 (Date: April 16th)

Section 4.19:

The proposed Psychosocial Recovery Coach Support Items should not qualify for Temporary Transformation Payment even though their cost models are determined under Disability Support Worker Cost Model.

Section 4.20:

Applying TTP would increase pressure on capacity building supports from other providers like coordination services due lack evidence supply shortages in these sectors;

COVID-19 Loading:

Section 4.21:

Temporary loading was introduced because pressures were reported affecting cash flows among critical service providers during pandemic impact;

Sections 4.23 & 4.24:

Proposed PSYCHOSOCIAL RECOVERY COACH SUPPORT ITEMS IN Recommendation (a) SHOULD NOT be eligible for temporary loadings as applying it increases pressure and NDIA will monitor market to determine further interventions needed,

Activity Based Transport:

Section 4.25-

Psychosocial recovery coaches may need transport participants, hence an activity-based support item is recommended within relevant category per recommendation above referred.,

Section 4.27:

Risk exists since some providers (Support Coordinators) share same registration group with psychosocial coach items but aren’t allowed bill ABT thus new description specifying its use only associated activities of the former must apply

Risks:

Section: The major risk lies workforce related where significant departure experienced workers has been noted over past three years necessitating sufficient base salary under price control. *Section: The NDIA monitors uptake on Psychosocial Recovery Coach Support Items responding appropriately including reviewing pricing arrangements if necessary.

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group | Item: Item 4.4 | Date: April 16th , year=2020

Impact On Scheme Sustainability

Internal Consultations

Strategic Advice Research And Inclusion Division Was Consulted Development Paper Office Scheme Actuary Were Consulted Implications Recommendations Scheme Sustainability.

Next Steps

New Support Items Will Be Active in The NDIS Support Catalogue From July First Year = [year] .

The Price Regulation Unit Is Responsible Working Other Areas Agency Roll Out Price Control Aspects Psychosocial Recovery Coach Approach Across NDis Including Advice Participants Providers Partners NDIA Staff. a) It Currently Intended Release New NDIS Price Guide and NDIS Support Catalogue, including psychosocial recovery coach support items other matters flowing from Annual Price Review on May Thirty One Year = [year]. b)New price limits for items dependent Disability Support Worker Cost Modelincluding the psychosocial recovery coach support itemswill be calculated announced as soon Fair Work Commission (FWC) releases results of Annual Wage Review 19–20 noting FWC currently reviewing timing Annual Wage Review requests determination delayed after economic impact COVID -19 better understood. c)The new price limits will come into effect first day month=July year=[year] or at time determined by Board if decision made delay operative date past July First Year = [year].

Strategic Advice ,Research And Inclusion Division is responsible working with other areas agency roll out psycchosocial recovery approach across ndis development guidance participants providers partners planners non-price control aspects psychosocial recovery supports.

n.n8 Page [number] Of total_pages, Psychosocial Recovery Coaches

Disclosure Log

Matter for Decision: Reform of Supported Independent Living

Prepared by David Cullen Chief Economist

Purpose:

To seek agreement PRG creation several new support items funding reform supported independent living.

Recommendations:

Support Item Number	Support Item Name	Support Item Description
01_801_0115_1_1:		Assisting and/or supervising personal tasks daily life develop skills participant live autonomously possible.
redacted:		Level should worker delivering has Social Community Services Employee level maximum pay point SCHADS Award.* redacted:*

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.2

| Support Item Number | Support Item Name | Support Item Description | |-|-| |01_816_0115_1_1 | Assistance With Self-Care Activities – Level 2 Active Night | Assisting with and/or supervising personal tasks daily life develop skills participant live autonomously possible. Level support items should be used worker delivering support has skill experience would mean they classified above Social Community Services Employee level (at minimum pay point) employed SCHADS Award.| |01_821_0115_1_1 | Assistance With Self-Care Activities-Level Weekday Daytime | Assist, supervise person’s task day-to-day to help them become more independent in their everyday activities as much as possible if someone who delivers this type assistance is highly skilled experienced enough that they could also qualify for a higher classification than an ordinary community services employee at similar salary levels within the same award structure under which such employees are paid. This means it may not always make sense to use these types of supports when there isn’t any need or desire for overnight care but rather just some extra hands-on attention during daytime hours on weekdays where needed by participants due to specific circumstances like illness injury etc., especially those requiring additional supervision beyond what can typically provided by regular staff members without specialized training required here specifically designed for people needing special needs related assistance outside normal working conditions.| |01_822_0115_1_1 | Assistance With Self-Care Activities—Level 3-Weekday Afternoon/Evening | Assisting with and/or supervising personal tasks daily life develop skills participant live autonomously possible. This support item should be used worker delivering support has skill experience would mean classified above Social Community Services Employee level (at minimum pay point) employed SCHADS Award.| |01_823_0115_1_1 | Assistance With Self-Care Activities-Level Saturday | Assist, supervise person’s task day-to-day to help them become more independent in their everyday activities as much as possible if someone who delivers this type assistance is highly skilled experienced enough that they could also qualify for a higher classification than an ordinary community services employee at similar salary levels within the same award structure under which such employees are paid. This means it may not always make sense use these types of supports when there isn’t any need or desire overnight care but rather just some extra hands-on attention during daytime hours on weekdays where needed participants due specific circumstances like illness injury etc., especially those requiring additional supervision beyond what can typically provided by regular staff members without specialized training required here specifically designed people needing special needs related assist outside normal working conditions.| |01_824_0115_1_1 | Assistance With Self-Care Activities—Level 3 Sunday | Assist, supervise person’s task day-to-day to help them become more independent daily life autonomously possible. This support item should be used worker delivering support has skill experience would mean classified above Social Community Services Employee level (at minimum pay point) employed SCHADS Award.| |01_825_0115_1_1 | Assistance With Self-Care Activities-Level Public Holiday | Assisting with and/or supervising personal tasks develop skills participant live autonomously possible. This support item should be used if someone who delivers this type assistance is highly skilled experienced enough that they could also qualify for a higher classification than an ordinary community services employee at similar salary levels within the same award structure under which such employees are paid. This means it may not always make sense use these types of supports when there isn’t any need or desire overnight care but rather just some extra hands-on attention during daytime hours on weekdays where needed participants due specific circumstances like illness injury etc., especially those requiring additional supervision beyond what can typically provided by regular staff members without specialized training required here specifically designed people needing special needs related assist outside normal working conditions.| |01_826_0115_1_1 | Assistance With Self-Care Activities—Level 3 Active Night | Assist, supervise person’s task day-to-day to help them become more independent in their everyday activities as much as possible even though overnight care might still necessary but caregiver able sleep when not required provide support (e.g.)|

(b) The support items Recommendation subject price regulation; c(Recommendation )The support items recommendation national limits, d(The support items recommendation standard remote very remote loadings;) e(The support items recommendation standard definitions time week set NDIS Price Guide;)f(The support items recommendation standard definitions Level worker set out NDIS Price Guide;)g(The support items recommendation Direct Service Provision non-Face-to Face Service Provider Travel Cancellations and NDIA Report Writing claims rules set out the NDIS Price Guide;)h(The support items recommendation Temporary Transformation Payment cost models determined Disability Support Worker Cost Model);i(The support items recommendation NOT be eligible for temporary per cent COVID-19 Loading.

a(The following supports added National Scheme Catalogue Category Assisting Daily Life participants achieve outcomes Outcome Domain:)|

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.2

Support Item Number	Support Item Name	Support Item Description
01_841_0115_1_1	Activity Based Transport	A provider can transport one or more participants
to and/or from a community based support as part of that support.
(b) he support item in Recommendation 2.2(a) should not be subject to price regulation;
and
(c) he support item in Recommendation 2.2(a),should be subject to the standard rulesfor activitybasedtransport set outinthenDIS Price Guide.

Background

To date, then DIS has funded two service models for participantsto support their daily living activities:

Assistance with Daily Living (ADL): are supportservicesthatare assistancewith self-careactivitiesduringthedayorevening. • ADLSupportitemsrepresenthourlyunitsofsupportheadsubjecttopricecontrols determinedbyDisabilitySupportWorkerCostModel.
Supported IndependentLiving(SIL),which isprovision of help withand/supervisiondailytaskstodeveloptheskillsofanindividualtoliveas independentlyaspossible.Thesaresupporthsp providedtoparticipantinhometheirregardlesseverystoryownership,andcanbeina sharedor individual arrangement. • The currentSIFundingandpricingmechanismisbasedon legacyoperatingmodels, andno longer fit-for-purpose due its limits on choice and controlrigid fundingstructure.SI Lisfunded based a weekly(24/7 Rosterof Care). SIL ista statedquotableitem; providerssubmit quote Agencywho assess price(basedonalDR rates)Consequently,SIRates not specified inthe NDISPriceGuide. The intent the ADLand SImodels aressimilar-to provide suppert participants undertaking dailylivingactivitiess.The difference derived from pricing, operational billing components. While sector favoured SI model(due better understanding compared toADLeasier payment), it has had number challenges including: (a) Participants do appear sufficientchoice &control about key assumptions containedin quotationincluding matterscontained roster care; (b) SI costs one top risks Scheme Sustainability with:
year-on-year inflation 18–9 per cent payments forecast grow atper month-month;
highest average annualised plan budget compare similar models; (c) normalprocesses inconsistent complexwith:
significant administrative effort approximately of quotes received having errors;
decision making rationale support funding levels variable opaque planner dependent;

MR25/01967 FOI 24/25-2242

DISCLOSURE LOG

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group	16 April 2020	Item 4.2

providers negotiating on the SIL quote value, and quoting above the ADL rates

(d) The current model having shifted from being participant focussed to house/site driven.

3.3 To address these issues, the NDIA Board and Executive Leadership Team have endorsed a series of actions with the intent to:

(a) Improve participant choice and control, and experience and outcomes;

(b) Address pressures to Scheme sustainability; and

3.4 To deliver on these actions, a proposed end-state has been developed.

Proposed end state

3.5 Attendant care in both shared and individual living arrangements will be provided under the Assistance with Daily Living (ADL) product. ADL is defined as the provision of support and/or supervision of daily tasks to develop the skills of an individual to live as independently as possible.

3.6 ADL can be considered:

(a) In a shared arrangement or for participants living independently;

(b) For participants who require intensive supports or shared ratios of care; and

(c) Along a spectrum of supports, from discrete hours/modules in the day (intermittent care) to continuous care throughout the week (24/7 support typically through a Roster of Care).

4. Issues

4.1 It is intended that the new SIL supports should be available in the NDIS Support Catalogue from 1 July 2020.

Price regulation

4.2 The market for SIL is not mature, or at least no more mature than the delivery of supports for Assistance with Daily Life on an hourly basis. It is therefore recommended that the proposed new support items should be subject to price regulation.

Price controls

4.3 There are a number of factors that determine the input costs for providers that indicate that the costs of SIL providers are similar to those of providers of Assistance with Daily Life supports.

4.4 The available evidence from the AbleInsight Benchmarking Survey 2019 indicates that SIL providers and providers of Assistance with Daily Life providers pay similar or slightly lower salary rates:

(a) Actual labour costs are higher in SIL:

The average actual hourly rate of pay (including loadings) of support workers was $36.92 in SIL compared with $33.75 (SIL is higher by 9.4 per cent)

Reform of Supported Independent Living Page 225 of 1049 n.n.4

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.2 | Date: April 16th , Year : 2020

The average actual hourly rate of pay: $44.76 compared against $41.69; this difference represents an increase from line managers’ salaries within SIL. b) However, due primarily because: i.) Greater use overtime hours; or ii.) A constant service delivery model throughout day-night shifts, which characterizes SIL services. c) The share salary-related costs associated shift penalties are higher at SIL (at approximately % than those delivering daily activities or community participation (~). The same applies to overtime related costs where it’s noted as being slightly more prevalent for staff working under SIL conditions ( vs.). When these effects taken into account, a) Average base-hourly rates without loadings were observed in $39.89; and b)$37.49, respectively.

Conclusion:

There is no reason different assumptions about base-salary rates should be made between providers offering Assistance with Daily Life supports versus the ones providing Services Independent Living (SIL). Data highlights maintaining differential price limits across various types of support workers.

Utilization Rates:

Similarity exists regarding billable hours relative available time among both groups - around .5 %. Supervision ratios also show a similar trend: on average per manager.

Evidence Suggests Lower Organizational Overheads For Providers Of Services

independent living compared against other forms of assistance provided by organizations supporting individuals requiring such care. (a) Several factors contribute towards reduced administrative expenses including recruitment training; i.) Longer tenure experienced within service independent living settings, averaging months longer than their counterparts; or ii.) A greater proportion permanent employees employed within this sector. b) The likelihood that Service-Independent Living providers do not need maintain fleets vehicles enabling them visit participants to deliver services. However certain costs arise specifically from Service Independent Living which are absent for those delivering daily life assistance. These include vacancy costs highlighted during market reviews conducted as part of Western Australia’s Market Review. An example given involves an overnight stay at house where three residents live and one worker sleeps there if all leave then cost associated remains unchanged due inability having only partial night sleepers present in home setting. Similarly arises when safety reasons necessitate constant presence of staff member leading shared responsibility between remaining occupants dwelling under SIL arrangement again absence resident does not reduce total support costs.

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group - Item 4.2 (MR25/01967 FOI 24/25-2242)

Date: April 16, 2020

Section 4.10:

The consultations indicate an uplift factor about 5%, necessary for covering costs.

Sections 4.11 & 4.13:

It appears various factors may cancel each other out; hourly price limits should be used as basis for SIL hourly prices based upon recommendations from Recommendation 2.1(a) determined using Standard Disability Support Worker Cost Model parameters and standard definitions outlined within NDIS Price Guide applicable nationally subject remote loadings, time/day week definitions, Level worker classifications, Direct Service Provision claims rules per NDIS Price Guide criteria;

Temporary Transformation Payment:

TTP was introduced to balance efficiency drive with supply expansion needs in core disability supports markets requiring increased market supplies and production efficiencies while short-term higher pricing is needed maintain existing support volumes redirect resources towards NDIS economy due capacity building not applied where rapid demand growth expected or driving efficiency outweighs supply pressure;

Recommendations:

Proposed items under recommendation are ineligible TTP even though cost models use the Disability Support Worker Cost Model.

COVID Loading

The temporary loading of up-to-date critical supports because pressures on providers’ cash flows reported by impact of COVID-19 affecting availability and participant demands, alternative arrangements currently being implemented to assist SIL providers manage these issues including cases involving management a COVID+ Participant.

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group April 16th , Item: Item Number:

Recommendation:

The proposed support items should NOT qualify as Temporary Loading due to additional costs being managed through alternative measures.

Activity Based Transport:

Pricing arrangements need an activity-based transport item in relevant categories (SIL).

Impact On Scheme Sustainability:

New pricing strategies aim at reducing pressures from growing payments related to SILs sustainbility scheme sustainability.

Internal Consultations:

Consultation involved DCEO Design Digital Strategy Operations Housing Divisions during paper’s creation process. ####### Next Steps:

New Support Items will be active starting July 3rd .
Price Regulation Unit responsible for implementing price controls alongside advice given to stakeholders including NDIS staff.
- The release date is set May thirtieth, with a focus on annual wage reviews and other matters following the Annual Review.
- Once FWC releases results, new limits are calculated immediately after understanding economic impacts post COVID-19 delays possible until June thirty-first or Board determined time if needed beyond that deadline,
- Startegy Division works across NDIS providing guidance non-price control aspects of the approach.

Review of Pricing Arrangements for Supported Independent Living

Disclosure Log

Document 26 - For Official Use Only

National Disability Insurance Agency

Item: PRG | Date: April 15th, 2020

DISCLOSURE LOG

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Item 3.2 - Pricing Reference Group | Date (15 April 2020)

Disclosure Log

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Pricing Reference Group | Date: April 15th , Year : 2020 | Item Number: item-3-dot-2

Further,

The review acknowledges vacancies present issues but not necessarily deficiencies within unit price limits; instead it points out planning arrangement inadequacies which don’t always adjust participant plans based on vacancy changes;

Next steps

Risks

Scheme sustainability concerns might lead sector view current Pricing Arrangements as cost-cutting exercise; these can be mitigated via ongoing communication efforts since it’s part larger program improving shared living support methods.

Disclosure Log

For Official Use Only

Pricing Reference Group | Item 3.2

Attachment(s):

Disclosure Log

Document: NDIS - Review of Supported Independent Living Price Controls | MR25/01967 FOI 24/25-2242

NATIONAL DISABILITY INSURANCE SCHEME

REVIEW OF SUPPORTED INDEPENDENT LIVING PRICE CONTROLS

Disclosure Log

Copyright

Issues Paper

Key date

Contact details administrative other matters:

Disclosure Log

Contents

Introduction

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Definitions

RespondingTo The Review

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Confidential submissions

Issues for Participants

Issues for Providers

Wages and on-costs

Base Hourly Wage

Is there a Material Difference?

Salary On-Cost Differences

Overtime Costs

Enterprise Bargaining Agreements (EBAs)

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Workforce mix

Casual staff

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Level of Staff

Utilisation

Training Requirements

Other Non-Billable Activities

Supervision Costs

Supervisor Wages and On-Costs

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Supervision ratio

Overheads

Corporate overheads

Turnover rates

Disclosure Log

Review of Supported Independent Living price controls

Vacancy Costs

Disclosure Log

Other Costs

Appendix A: Schematic Overview - NDIS Disability Support Worker Cost Model

Appendix B: Current arrangements

Disclosure Log

MR25/01967 FOI 24/25-2242

Review of Supported Independent Living Price Controls

Disclosure Log

Document 27

NDIS Pricing Reference Group Meeting: April 16th, 2020 - Minutes

Disclosure Log