Cost

Varies depending on the service, level of support and staff ratio required.  Out of pocket costs may apply for social groups, holidays, camps and events in line with NDIS regulations.

Services provided:

• Awesome Kids Social Group (ages 6–12): A fun, inclusive group for children to build friendships and confidence through a range of different activities held fortnightly on Saturday mornings. 

• Community Participation: Supports children to engage in community life, explore new interests and develop social skills through supported outings and experiences. 

• In-Home Support: Provides assistance with daily routines and skill development in the family home to help children thrive in a familiar environment. 

• One-on-One Support: Tailored individual support to help children achieve their NDIS goals at home, in the community, or during recreational activities. 

• Personal Care: Offers assistance with personal hygiene, dressing, and daily self-care routines to support children’s independence and wellbeing. 

• Plan Management: Helps families manage their child’s NDIS funding, payments and invoices so they can focus on achieving goals. 

• Shared Support (more than one participant): Enables children to participate in shared activities and group supports, promoting peer connection and social learning. 

• Support Coordination: Assists families to understand and implement their child’s NDIS plan by connecting them with the right supports and services. 

• Supported Holidays, Camps and Events: Offers children the chance to take part in fun, supported holiday experiences and camps that foster friendships, independence and adventure. 

High-Intensity Outside School Hours Care 

Funded by the Department of Education and Training (block funding) 

• Bendigo Special Developmental School 

• Kalianna School Bendigo 

Description: Free, specialised after-school and holiday care for students attending Victorian specialist schools, supporting complex needs in a safe and structured environment. 

Eligibility: Students attending the schools listed. Waitlists may apply. 

Cost: Free 

Carer and Family Support 

Funded by HACC and DFFH (block funding) 

• Sibling social groups: Fun and supportive group activities that help children who have family members with disabilities build friendships and feel connected. Recommended for children aged 6+. 

• Carer respite: Short-term support that gives unpaid carers a break while ensuring their loved ones are cared for safely and respectfully. 

• Family holidays, camps and events: Accessible, supported experiences that provide respite and reduce social isolation for families of people with disabilities. 

Eligibility: Families of people with a disability providing unpaid care. 

Cost: Some out-of-pocket costs may apply. 

Bendigo Netball for All 

Funded by HACC (block funding) 

Description: Inclusive netball program for players aged 6+ with diverse abilities, designed to be fun, flexible and welcoming for everyone. 

Eligibility: Players aged 6+ with a range of abilities, including people with intellectual and physical impairments 

Cost: Netball Victoria Player Insurance approximately $65 per year and uniform. 

NDIS Advocacy 

Funded by Bendigo Carer Support Services (block funding) 

Description: Free, confidential support to help people with disabilities access, understand and navigate the NDIS. 

Eligibility: Any person with a disability who is an NDIS participant or attempting to access the NDIS 

Cost: Free service 

Eligibility Criteria

Children with disabilities registered as NDIS participants.

Referral pathway

• • One-on-One Support: 1300 799 421 or intake@lifely.org.au 
  • In-Home Support: 1300 799 421 or intake@lifely.org.au 
  • Personal Care: 1300 799 421 or intake@lifely.org.au 
  • Shared Support: 1300 799 421 or intake@lifely.org.au 
  • Community Participation: 1300 799 421 or intake@lifely.org.au 
  • Social Groups: 1300 799 421 or intake@lifely.org.au 
  • Supported Holidays, Camps and Events: 1300 799 421 or intake@lifely.org.au 
  • Plan Management: 1300 799 421 or pmp@lifely.org.au 
  • Support Coordination: 1300 799 421 or supportcoordination@lifely.org.au 
  • Advocacy: 1300 799 421 or complete the online Intake referral form (https://lifely.org.au/services/advocacy/)