The role of allied health
Allied health professionals play an important role in supporting people with disabilities. They can work across a range of settings including:
- public health
- community services
- the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
Disability is a broad term. It includes physical, intellectual, mental and sensory impairments that can affect daily life.
Allied health professionals working with people with disabilities support in different ways. These can include:
- assessing function capacity and identifying support needs
- supporting access to services and supports
- developing and supporting progress toward functional goals
- promoting independence and participation in daily activities
Allied health professionals work with people to build skills for daily life.
Support should be person-centered and strengths-based. It should involve working alongside families, carers and other supports.
National Disability Insurance Scheme
The primary mechanism for funding disability support in Australia is through the NDIS.
It provides funding for people with permanent and significant disability. Funding can support:
- daily living activities
- access to the community
- consumables
- therapies to build capacity
- specialist disability accommodation
- assistive technology
NDIS Workforce Capability Framework
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission developed the NDIS Workforce Capability Framework.
The framework supports the provision of quality care. It outlines skills and knowledge needed for workers engaging with or funded by the NDIS.
Examples of core capabilities include:
- effective communication
- collaboration
- supporting individuals to make their own choices
- building capacity
Credentialing, Competency and Capability Framework
The Credentialing, Competency and Capability framework guides professional standards and supports quality care.
The Capability Resource Kit outlines key skills for each allied health grade. It includes areas such as:
- Evidence based practice
- Collaborative decision making
- Ethical practice
This resource supports high-quality, consistent care across allied health services.
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