Description
The Better Start for Children with Disability initiative provides Australian Government funding for early intervention services (including occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech pathology) to children with eligible disabilities. Up to $12,000 is available (maximum $6,000 per year) to eligible families.
Services provided
- Assessment
- Referral to a specialist
- Funding
Eligibility
Available to all children under the age of six years who have been diagnosed with a specific disability.
How to access
For more information about intervention services and the list of disabilities
- Visit Better Start .
- Call (toll free) 1800 242 636
The National Relay Service is available to help callers who are d/Deaf, or find it hard to hear or speak to hearing people on the phone.
The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS is available (24 hours, 7 days) for callers who speak other languages. Call 131 450.
Costs
The Better Start for Children with Disability Registration and Information Service is a free service.
Tip
- Families living in outer regional or remote areas may be eligible for an additional one-off payment of $2,000.
- Download the registration and information pack for comprehensive information to assist in your decision making.
Important
Children with an eligible diagnosis must register for Better Start before they turn six years old. A child will have until they turn seven to access funding.