Better Start Initiative

Better Start Funding

Hearing Impairment, Sight Impairment, Deafblindness, Down Syndrome, Fragile X, Cerebral Palsy, Prader Willi, Williams, Angelman, Kabuki, Smith-Magenis, CHARGE, Cornelia de Lange and Cri du Chat syndromes and microcephaly.

Under Six Years of Age

If a child is diagnosed with any of the above by a Paediatrician or Psychologist and is seen by an Autism Advisor and deemed eligible to access the service before their 6th Birthday they may receive funding of up to $12,000 (maximum of $6,000 per financial year). This can be accessed until the child’s 7th birthday.

Better Start Initiative

Up to Fifteen Years of Age

A child diagnosed with the above can receive up to 4 assessments and 20 rebated sessions through Medicare throughout the child’s lifespan. A GP, Paediatrician or Psychologist must be seen to be eligible. Also the plan must be given before 13 years of age to be eligible for it.

Chronic Disease Managment Plan

Any Age

A GP determines eligibility which entitles you to 5 rebated sessions through Medicare, which can be obtained each calendar year.

Mental Health Plan

Any Age

(Please note this cannot be used for Speech Pathology)
A GP determines eligibility which entitles you to 10 discounted sessions through Medicare. An additional 6 can be given due to “exceptional circumstances” which is determined by the GP who gives the plan. This plan can be given each calendar year.

Private Health Insurance

Any Age

If your Private Health covers Speech Pathology you are also able to claim through them. The amount is dependent on the fund and individual level of cover.